LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a bold move that echoes his legendary prowess on the rugby field, Maroons coach Billy Slater has quashed swirling rumors of his potential succession of Craig Bellamy as the Melbourne Storm coach.
The speculation surrounding Bellamy's future in the coaching seat has been a topic of heated debate for years, with whispers surfacing once again that 2024 may mark his final season at the Storm's helm.
Since the sporting guru took on the role in 2003, there has been an annual air of uncertainty surrounding whether he will continue to lead the Storm forward.
With talks circulating about Bellamy potentially transitioning into a director of coaching role or even hanging up his coaching hat for good at the end of 2024, the future beyond this year remains shrouded in mystery.
As the rugby league world anticipates Bellamy's next move, assistant coach Jason Ryles emerges as a top contender to step into the veteran's shoes.
Yet, the illustrious figure of club icon Slater, whose illustrious career with the Storm saw him secure two premiership titles, is also in the mix to fill the coaching void.
Despite persistent murmurs linking him to a full-time NRL coaching gig, Slater remains steadfast in his commitment to his beloved Maroons, relishing the balance he strikes between his coaching duties, media engagements, and cherished moments on his farm with his loved ones.
When posed with the possibility of eventually stepping into Bellamy's shoes at the Storm, Slater emphasized the unexpected fulfillment he has found in the Maroons role and asserted his unwavering dedication to the Queensland cause without wavering.