Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has expressed gratitude to the league community for their support during his “private” health journey, while also choosing not to speculate on whether he will remain in his role next year.
Bellamy addressed the media for the first time since being diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder last month, speaking at AAMI Park on Saturday. While he was open about the team’s struggles — they are currently on a seven-game losing streak ahead of their upcoming match against the Wests Tigers — he remained cautious about revealing specifics regarding his condition.
Despite this, the respected mentor used the opportunity to thank everyone who had reached out with messages of support.
“That’s the one thing that I can’t believe, how many messages I’ve received,” Bellamy said.
“I’d probably say that I really apologise, I haven’t got back to any, I don’t think, I’ve been pretty busy with the footy.
“But everyone that has sent me a message, I don’t know how many there’s, but I really appreciate it and hopefully I’ll get back to you soon … I know a lot of people, I feel whatever I suppose, but at the end of the day, the support’s been unbelievable in that area.”
When asked if he was in a position to provide an update on his health, Bellamy responded: “No, we’re here about footy … At the end of the day, this is private to me. Footy’s what you’re here to talk about, OK?”
In February, Bellamy signed a contract extension that will see him stay with the club until the end of 2028. When pressed on whether he would continue coaching next year, he replied: “I don’t know, I’m thinking about this week.”
The Storm have experienced an emotionally challenging period, marked by the departure of several key players and health concerns involving prominent figures. Alongside Bellamy’s situation, the club has had to deal with the exits of Ryan Papenhuyzen and Nelson Asofa-Solomona, the injury of Xavier Coates, Eli Katoa’s brain bleed, and a stroke that affected forward Tui Kamikamica.
Bellamy noted that these setbacks have helped put the team’s current losing run into perspective.
“At the end of the day, we’ve always had the mentality about footy [that it] is family first, footy second, and then your other interests a fair way behind that,” he said.
“We’ve always put family first and footy second.”
Storm star Cameron Munster recently admitted he had considered retirement after a difficult personal form. However, Bellamy did not comment on whether Munster should retain the Maroons’ No.6 jersey.
“At the end of the day, when we’ve had as many losses as we’ve had, I think it’s important that we all question ourselves – are we doing our job the best we can?” Bellamy said.
“One thing I like about Munster is his honesty and, like I say, I’m sure he’s [questioning] his role and if he’s been doing it the best you can.
“I think all of us have been doing that.”
