Cooper Cronk: It’s Time for Craig Bellamy to Call It a Day
For a coach who has spoken about retirement since 2013, the news that Craig Bellamy is finally set to step down from his role at Melbourne Storm is still a shock. But for Cooper Cronk, a former player under Bellamy’s tutelage, it’s a decision that is long overdue.
Cronk, now a rugby league pundit for Fox Sports, believes that while Bellamy is still coaching at the top of his game, it’s time for him to step away and enjoy the fruits of his labor.
“Craig’s given a hell of a lot to that football club and every player that has stepped through the doors there at Melbourne Storm,” Cronk said.
“Personally, and romantically, I’d like to see Craig move on and enjoy the finer things in life.”
Bellamy’s departure will mark the end of an era for the Melbourne Storm, a club he has led to 10 NRL premierships and 12 Grand Final appearances in 21 seasons.
The club has been in something of a transitional period this year, losing several key players, but Cronk believes they have enough quality to continue to challenge for the title.
“When you’ve got a spine of Harry Grant, Munster, Hughes, and Nick Meaney, it’s probably why they’ve found some consistency and high-level performance in recent games,” he said.
“I think they’re almost certain to be in the finals again.
“While they might have some issues at different stages, ultimately they’ll always get there and play finals footy.
“I think Craig Bellamy is still coaching as well as he ever has, and so are those elite players who have been at the forefront for such a long time.”
Bellamy’s legacy at Melbourne Storm is secure. He is one of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport, and his achievements will continue to be celebrated long after he leaves the club.
But for Cronk, and many other fans of the game, it’s time for Bellamy to step aside and let the next generation of coaches take center stage.
“I’ve said that [Bellamy will retire] for the last three years, but I’ve been wrong every time,” Cronk said.
“I don’t say it because I don’t think he can coach anymore, I say it from a mate’s point of view, from someone that has been with him for a long period of time.
“Craig’s given a hell of a lot to that football club and every player that has stepped through the doors there at Melbourne Storm.
“Personally, and romantically, I’d like to see Craig move on and enjoy the finer things in life.”
