Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy says it’s “surreal” to be considered alongside the greatest coaches of all-time, but believes the credit for the Storm’s success should go to the players.
Speaking to Matty Johns on 1170 SEN's Morning Glory, Bellamy touched on his legacy and the great players he’s coached at the Storm.
“It is surreal, I get a little bit embarrassed about that,” Bellamy said in response to being mentioned alongside Jack Gibson as league’s greatest ever coach.
“I wouldn’t tie up Jack Gibson’s bootlaces… I know I’ve been really fortunate, I’ve had so many great players to coach.
“You talk about the big three (Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Billy Slater), or the big four if you throw GI (Greg Inglis) in there, most coaches are lucky enough to coach one player of that calibre.
“I’ve been lucky enough to coach four of those guys, they’ve been more important factors in the Storm’s success than I have.
“I’ve just been really glad to go along for the ride.
“I know I’ve played my part in a certain way, but we would have had no way near the success we’ve had without those blokes.
“It’s been an honour to coach them.”
While Bellamy isn’t so sure, it is unquestioned now that the Storm coach is one of the greatest of all time, particularly after winning the 2020 premiership in what may have been the competition’s most difficult season.