Billy Slater has thrown his support behind friend and mentor Craig Bellamy after he was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder.
The Maroons head coach revealed he is already helping Bellamy and the Melbourne Storm in a part-time capacity.
Watch every game of every round of the NRL Premiership LIVE with no ad-breaks during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
But he would be prepared to step up if he received the call, despite being on State of Origin duty.
“Look you do things that you care for and Craig Bellamy and the Melbourne Storm are two things that I really care for,” Slater told Channel 9 News.
“If Craig Bellamy ever asked me for a hand he wouldn’t have to ask twice put it that way.
“Knowing what he’s going through and knowing how hard he works and what he puts into this club – I’m already in there most weeks and doing a part-time role – and the great thing is I haven’t seen any signs of this being in and around Craig Bellamy.
“So in the short-term I don’t think Craig Bellamy’s ability to coach his footy team is going to waiver.”
It has only been a day since Bellamy’s condition was made public, and he is set to stay on in his capacity as Storm head coach – a position he has held since 2003.
He has however stepped down from his role with the New South Wales Blues ahead of Origin game one later this month.
Slater revealed he found out about his friend’s diagnosis earlier this month.
“I had a conversation with Craig a couple of weeks ago and he let me know the sad news of the diagnosis,” he added.
“It’s obviously really tough to take. It’s someone that you’ve looked up to and has led you over the best part of 25 years.
“To know he is going through a bit of a battle and he’s going to continue going for a bit of a battle for a period of time, it’s pretty hard to take.
“Great signs that he’s here at Suncorp stadium tonight and coaching his footy team.”
Since the news was broken the NRL has rallied around by the legendary coach, who has won three premierships.
Sports reporter Roy Ward wrote on X: “This is truly heartbreaking news. Craig Bellamy is one of the most admired people in Australian sport.
“I’ve had so many people in other sports ask about Craig over the years. I know he and the Storm will make the most of however much longer he can coach.”
Fox League’s Andrew Voss said: “All of rugby league wish Craig well as he deals with this news.
The South Sydney Rabbitohs said: “We’re all with you Craig”, while the Canterbury Bulldogs said: “You’re in our thoughts prayers Craig.”
The Cronulla Sharks said: “Send our support to Craig and his family.”
