Craig Bellamy open to coaching in AFL in post-NRL career

Michael Di Lonardo

Craig Bellamy open to coaching in AFL in post-NRL career image

Storm coach Craig Bellamy has left the door open to an AFL coaching career once his work in rugby league is done, following a similar path to club legend Billy Slater.

Slater picked up a part-time mentoring role at St Kilda and from all reports the former Storm fullback is having a profound impact, working closely with the club's leadership group.

His teachings have centred around club culture and values, creating a sense of professionalism that has been developed through his 16 years of experience in the NRL.

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It's led some to ask the question whether Bellamy could have the same success in the rival code.

Bellamy admits his knowledge of Aussie Rules isn't up to scratch, but if he was ever approached to take on a consultancy role the Melbourne mentor would seriously consider it.

''At some stage when I do finish full-time coaching, I’d like to do a little bit of consulting or (offer) a little bit of help for one or two days a week around a footy club,” Bellamy told SEN Breakfast.

“If anyone thinks I can help a non-rugby league side, I’d be willing to listen to them.

“I really enjoy being around people. The way I’ve been brought up, my parents always taught me that if you want something, you need to work hard for it.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s sport, life or business or relationships, if you want that thing, you’ve got to work really hard at it if you want to be good at it and you want it to work.”

Bellamy is considered one of the best coaches in the country, boasting an incredible 68 per cent winning percentage, having never missed a finals series bar 2010 when Melbourne were unable to play for competition points after serious salary cap breaches.

Since he took over the Victorian franchise in 2003, the 59-year-old has featured in eight grand finals with two premierships, with another two titles being stripped in 2007 and 2009, in one of the most illustrious coaching resumes across the globe.

Bellamy signed a three-year extension that has him committed to Melbourne for three more years, rejecting a lucrative offer to take over veteran coach Wayne Bennett at Brisbane, however his future beyond 2021 remains unclear.

 

Michael Di Lonardo

Michael Di Lonardo Photo