Before I initiate this blog I will add I'm still on a high following on from last nights almighty win!
There’s something exciting brewing at this footy club — a clear shift in direction, driven by a bold commitment to youth, accountability, and some smart recruitment. I applaud Ryles and his coaching stuff for this.
I liken it to opening the windows when you enter a stuffy motel room to let some fresh air in.
Despite this I'm still realistic & I don't have high expectations on our finishing position this year.
I've been highly critical of MON & club management to date, in my eyes they now have the perfect opportunity to make amends & build a successful future for our club.
The club appears to be taking decisive steps to reshape its identity. Gone are the days of holding onto aging stars or players who weren’t pulling their weight. Instead, there’s a renewed focus on building around a core group of promising young players who bring energy, hunger, and a strong team-first mindset. These emerging talents are not only lifting standards on the field but also reshaping the culture off it.
The tough calls have already been made.
Now, the next 6 to 12 months become critical. The club can’t afford to splurge or chase big names for headlines. Instead, the focus must be on astute signings — players who fit the long-term vision, fill key positional needs, and enhance the existing culture. Think proven performers with leadership qualities or undervalued players ready to take the next step in the right system.
If we miss out on the signing of Galvin, I'll be disappointed however there is opportunity for the taking going forward. MON here is your chance.
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Lorenzo having a great game in JF too at 6 today.
You guys reckon Twiddle would debut on the wing and get him into FB or FE over time?
I think Twidle is a moral to debut next year. On the wing or centre, even at FB if Longi were to miss a game. Though not aware as EA is re his defence, when he gets the ball he has 'time' and is quick to decide his move or pass, and he is quick off the mark. We must retain him because he's been noticed by other clubs.
Good signs Richard. And this is where our retention has to be much better then it has been in the past.
That's the spirit, that's the identity to breathe new life into Parra!
Love the positivity, good blog.
All very good points & signs are great.
There's going to be plenty of challenges to come but with the competition being as close as it is, there is no reason to rule out finals in 2025 as these young guys get game time & the errors decrease?
Mentioned it Friday night but only the Warriors have a better defensive record than the Eels since Round 7.
Thats an incredible turnaround & Ryles & co deserve a lot of credit no matter what happens from here.
Its nice to watch a team who will fight out games for 80 minutes, and who will attack from anywhere & in different ways. Long way to go but the Eels are unique & it's very enjoyable to watch.
Was there yesterday as well very impressed with the set up there . Thought Volkman led the team very well . Scored a great runaway try . Then the bell rang accidentally with supposedly two mins to go Casey Baddager blue the whistle then was told two to go started up again . Was the longest two mins ives ever seen . Volkman looked like hurt his foot and came off . Manly scored a late try . What did like ta lot of the first grade guys were there watching plus jnrs family as well all the players seem very connected
I don't know whether BA ha a mentorship to help him with his career with us. I would think when things started to go on the slide for him he didn't reflect on how to address issues in his coaching. Lots of people on this site referred to him as being stubborn which is ego related. " I know what to do"
Being humble and challenging yourself is a big deal when you are on top and earning big dollars. Bellamy seems like a coach who takes responsibility seriously. I can remember reading an article about how he sought out a very good Sports Scientist from USA to mentor him with his coaching.I can't remember his name however this is an AI post about how he used mentors in his career. If the club as a whole adopts training coaches and assistants to be open to the the best inputs in coaching that will become part of a coaching and player improvement culture which will transpirer right through the clubs culture
Craig Bellamy has had several key influencers throughout his coaching career with the Melbourne Storm. Here are some of the most significant:
Wayne Bennett: As one of the most successful coaches in NRL history, Bennett's coaching style and strategies have greatly influenced Bellamy. Their relationship has been one of mutual respect and learning.
Frank Ponissi: The Storm's football director has been a long-time collaborator with Bellamy, providing insights into player management and team culture.
Neil Craig: As you mentioned earlier, Craig has been a mentor to Bellamy, especially during his early coaching years. His experience in coaching and player development has shaped Bellamy's approach.
Players: Bellamy often cites his players as a source of inspiration. The feedback and dynamics within the team have helped him evolve his coaching methods.
As for whether he still has a mentor in his current coaching, Bellamy has maintained a network of advisors and peers, including former coaches and colleagues, but he has also taken on a more independent role as he has gained experience. He signed a five-year extension in 2021, allowing him to decide each season whether to continue as head coach or transition into a coaching director role. This flexibility suggests he is still open to mentorship but is also confident in his own coaching philosophy
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