Melbourne Storm's coach, Craig Bellamy, expressed his desire for the club to promote his successor from within, also commending Billy Slater following his recent announcement. Slater shocked fans and Bellamy alike by stating he will resign from his role with the Queensland State of Origin team.
This announcement led many NRL supporters to speculate that Slater may be preparing for the Storm coaching position as Bellamy faces a health challenge related to a neurodegenerative disorder diagnosed earlier this year. Despite uncertainty surrounding his future, Bellamy has confirmed his commitment to coaching the Storm for at least another season, though he indicated he might conclude his illustrious career after next year.
While some fans speculated on Slater's interest in the NRL position, he has publicly denied that he is pursuing it. Ahead of the Storm's upcoming match against the Penrith Panthers, Bellamy was asked about his potential successor.
During a press conference, Bellamy acknowledged his surprise at Slater's resignation from the Queensland position, praising him as a strong candidate for head coach. However, he also expressed confidence in the club's current assistants. "I might get asked my opinion…I think he would do a great job," Bellamy stated regarding Slater. He emphasized that three assistant coaches are also qualified for the role and that the final decision rests with club management. "I would like to see the next head coach come from the club…there are three or four candidates that could probably handle it," he added.
The Storm's assistant coaches are Marc Bretnall, Ryan Hinchcliffe, and Aaron Bellamy. Bretnall has been with the club since 2013, Hinchcliffe rose up after his playing career, and Aaron Bellamy has been climbing the ranks since 2012.