Melbourne Storm NRL coach Craig Bellamy has admitted that his behavior in the past was so extreme that his players would have been justified in hitting him. Known for his fiery temper, Bellamy has gained a reputation for his intense outbursts since taking over the team in 2003. His passionate antics, like throwing water bottles and kicking chairs, have made him an NRL meme over the years.
Bellamy, who learned under Wayne Bennett at the Brisbane Broncos, has been central to the Storm’s success but confessed during the Clubhouse podcast, hosted by players Cam Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen, and Jahrome Hughes, that he’s calmed down significantly over time. Reflecting on his early years, he said, “A couple of times, it would have been fair if someone punched me.” He credits the birth of his granddaughter as a moment when he began to mellow, though he still emphasizes honesty with players.
In addition to managing his temper, Bellamy has shifted how he recruits players. Earlier in his career, he overlooked off-field issues, focusing only on talent. However, he now prioritizes the character and personality of potential recruits, ensuring they align with the club’s identity. He said, “We employ the person before the player,” emphasizing the importance of quality people for the team’s success.
Interestingly, Bellamy’s evolved approach might have affected the career of Storm legend Cooper Cronk if it had been in place when Cronk joined. When Cronk first arrived, he was not initially seen as a standout player. However, through hard work and dedication, particularly to improving his kicking and passing, Cronk became one of the game’s best halfbacks. Bellamy praised Cronk’s effort, saying, “He worked incredibly hard to get where he wanted to be.”
This philosophy of hard work and persistence has been a cornerstone of Bellamy’s coaching, with players like Cronk and Billy Slater becoming self-made stars due to their dedication.
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