Three-time NRL Premiership winning coach announces 2023 could be his last
Melbourne Storm head coach and veteran of the NRL game, Craig Bellamy has revealed that 2023 could be his last in a full-time role with the club.
Bellamy, 63, has been coach of the NRL club since 2003, going on to lead them to more than 500 games, as well as nine Grand Final appearances.
He enters his 21st season with Melbourne in 2023. The side kick-off the new NRL campaign this Thursday away to Parramatta Eels, live on Sky Sports.
Bellamy signed a five-year contract with Storm in 2022 that allows him to decide each year whether he will continue in his role as head coach for the following season or transition into a coaching director role.
After signing for the 2023 season in May, he previously said: “The group we have here at the moment are a pretty exciting group. They’re an enjoyable group to work with and hang around with.
“Our staff off the field are really good people and I know how hard they work. It’s a pleasure working with them.
“I think I’ve got another 12 months to give so I’m looking forward to that next year.”
Craig Bellamy confirms NRL retirement plans
Bellamy has recently spoken about his retirement plans to Fox League’s NRL 360, admitting he wants to give Melbourne as much time as possible to find his replacement.
“I’m pretty sure this is going to be my last year as a head coach,” he said.
“I’ll still be around the club a bit in a part-time role at the end of this year, but nothing’s really changed.
“I’m not quite sure when the club wants a definite answer but I want to give them plenty of time to find a new coach.
“I can’t see anything changing this year as to me not retiring at the end of the year.”
READ NEXT: Luke Thompson hit with major injury blow on eve of NRL season
FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app and podcast
