Storm coach Craig Bellamy could be set for several more years at the helm of the Melbourne juggernaut following Jason Ryles’ appointment as the Eels head coach.
That is according to Storm general manager Frank Ponissi who said the master coach “couldn’t even spell retirement, let alone consider it”.
Bellamy announced in May he would coach on until the end of the 2025 season, having signed a unique five-year deal in 2022.
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That contract allows him to decide each year whether he wants to continue on, and his latest decision prompted Ryles to look elsewhere for his opportunity at a top job.
“The bloke in charge is showing no signs of slowing down,” Ponissi said to the SMH.
“In fact, he is coaching better than ever. He could coach on for another decade. That’s how well he is going.
“There is no question that Jason had the credentials to be a serious contender for the job, if it was ever going to come up.”
Ryles joined the Storm during the 2023 season, having began his coaching career at Wests in Wollongong following the end of his players career in 2013.
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He has also worked under Trent Robinson at the Roosters, whilst also being in Eddie Jones’ coaching staff for both Australia and England’s rugby union teams.
For Ponissi, Ryles is now primed to succeed in his new role, having worked with some of the game’s biggest names.
“I think he certainly served his apprenticeship and he’s ready to be given an opportunity, which he has,” Ponissi said.
“He has a really good relationship with players and this time around he has been working with the leadership group here and they have only had great things to say.
“That player relationship is a strength, as is his calm temperament, but his new job could test that out.”