'He wouldn't have to ask twice': Billy Slater's pledge to help Storm after Craig Bellamy's diagnosis

Billy Slater has pledged that he'd be happy to take on more responsibilities at the Melbourne Storm after revelations that Craig Bellamy has been diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder.

The Storm had released a statement on Thursday night that specialists had advised the diagnosis wouldn't impact his ability to coach.

However, Slater is willing to help out if needed, with the Queensland Maroons coach employed by the club in a consultancy role at the moment.

READ MORE: 'Numb': Carey's sad revelation 22 years after crippling injury

READ MORE: Legendary bond could hint that a special performance is brewing

READ MORE: Fired-up $153m Aussie ejected for starting NBA brawl

"You do things that you care for and Craig Bellamy and the Melbourne Storm are two things that I really care for so if Craig Bellamy ever asks me for a hand, he wouldn't have to ask twice, put it that way," he told 9news Melbourne.

"Knowing what he's going through and knowing how hard he works and what he puts into this club and footy team (I'm happy to help), I'm already in there most weeks and doing a part time role.

"The great thing is I haven't seen any signs of this being in and around Craig Bellamy, in the short-term I don't think his ability to coach this footy team is going to waiver."

Slater revealed that he was informed of the news two weeks ago during a conversation with the supercoach.

Watch the 2026 NRL season live and free on Nine and 9Now.

"It's obviously really tough to take," he said.

"He's someone you've looked up to and led you over the best part of the last 25 years and to know he is going through a bit of a battle and he's going to continue going through a battle for a period of time, it's pretty hard to take.

"It's great signs that he's here at Suncorp Stadium tonight and coaching his footy team."

The Storm play the Dolphins in Brisbane as the club looks to stop an unfamiliar six-match losing streak.

Melbourne captain Harry Grant admitted there is a touch of "raw and real" emotion attached to the match after the announcement around Bellamy.

"I can just guarantee the whole rugby league community is standing behind Craig and showing their love and support for his family. At the end of the day hopefully that distraction can drive a little bit of emotion but not take away too much from the game," he said on Fox League.