Craig Bellamy, in his 23rd season coaching the Melbourne Storm, is determined to nurture the club’s rising stars and continue its legacy of success. Although his current contract allows for a transition to a coaching director role each season, Bellamy remains steadfast in his coaching role, particularly excited about developing talented youngsters like rookie fullback Sualauvi Faalogo.
“We’ve introduced some young players who’ve performed admirably,” Bellamy remarked to reporters. “This week, we’ll see a couple more young guys stepping up due to injuries. It’s always intriguing to observe how they handle the pressure, but I have confidence they’ll deliver.”
Faalogo, filling in for the injured Ryan Papenhuyzen, is set to debut as fullback in Saturday’s showdown against the Sharks. With three tries in just two NRL appearances, the 21-year-old, hailing from Samoa but raised in Melbourne, has already shown promise, drawing high expectations for his future in the sport.
Despite the anticipated challenge from Cronulla’s Nicho Hynes, Bellamy expresses full confidence in Faalogo’s ability to excel, especially under the high ball, owing to his background in Victorian AFL.
Since his appointment in 2003, Bellamy has steered the Storm to remarkable success, boasting a 70% winning rate across 555 games, securing three premierships and five minor premierships. Moreover, he has adeptly managed the transitions of key players like Greg Inglis, Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk, and Billy Slater, ensuring the team’s sustained excellence.
With rising talents such as Harry Grant, Cameron Munster, Papenhuyzen, and Jahrome Hughes, the Storm remains a formidable force in the league. Bellamy’s decision to continue coaching offers stability to both players and staff as the club charts its course for the future.
“Craig’s coaching prowess remains as strong as ever, and his dedication to the team is evident,” remarked Storm chairman Matt Tripp. “He’s proven himself to be one of the NRL’s finest coaches, and we’re thrilled to have him lead the team into another season.”
