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Craig Bellamy's incredible tribute to Cooper Cronk

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has choked back tears in a wonderful tribute to departing halfback Cooper Cronk.

The Storm sent Cronk out a winner on Sunday night when they thrashed the Cowboys to claim their third NRL premiership.

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It was the perfect swansong for Cronk, who is leaving Melbourne at the end of the year to be closer to his fiancee in Sydney.

Whether he is retiring or playing on in Sydney still remains to be seen, but the emotion around his departure from the Storm has been evident.

The Big Three signed off in style. Image: Getty
The Big Three signed off in style. Image: Getty

On Tuesday night at the club's annual awards night, Bellamy expressed the incredible impact Cronk has had on the club.

"What a champion he has been," Bellamy said.

"He's made us all better players and coaches than some would ever dream.

"I'm a better coach, I'm a better person for having worked 15 years with Cooper Cronk.

Cronk and Bellamy on Grand Final night. Image: Getty
Cronk and Bellamy on Grand Final night. Image: Getty

"What you have done for our players, our coaches, our staff, our game, has been inspirational.

"Whatever happens in the future, we love you dearly. You'll always be a Stormer."

Cronk was named club person of the year, while the Storm also honoured the champion halfback by unveiling the Cooper Cronk medal. This will be awarded annually to the Storm feeder player of the year.

Brodie Croft, who is set to replace Cronk in the line-up next year, became the first to receive the medal.

Skipper Cameron Smith was named Melbourne player of the year for the seventh time, adding the award to the Dally M Medal and hooker of the year title he collected last week.

A testament to his remarkable durability and consistency, the award comes 13 years after winning his first at the Storm.

In other awards on the night, Will Chambers was named best back for the first time, and Jesse Bromwich took out his fourth best forward award.

with AAP