2024 COACHES

A Grade

Jeremy Smith

Meet Jeremy Smith, a rugby league luminary whose career spans the 2000s and 2010s, leaving an enduring legacy in both play and coaching. Born on April 14, 1980, in Christchurch, New Zealand, Jeremy's expertise now takes center stage in the coaching arena.

As a former professional rugby league player, Jeremy proudly represented clubs like the Melbourne Storm, St. George Illawarra Dragons, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, and the Newcastle Knights, co-captaining the Knights to new heights. Notably, his stint with the Dragons included a spectacular win at the 2010 NRL Grand Final.

Grounded in Samoan heritage, Jeremy's journey began in Christchurch, he carries his cultural roots with pride. His educational path led him to Coombabah State High School.

Jeremy's junior football days kicked off at the Altona Roosters in Melbourne before he made the move to Queensland, playing a pivotal role for the Runaway Bay Seagulls RLFC. This coastal connection has become an integral part of Jeremy's rugby league story.

Jeremy's resilience was tested, and he emerged stronger. A setback with the Northern Eagles in 2001 didn't deter him. Returning to Queensland, he found his stride at the Melbourne Storm feeder club, Norths Devils, where he was named the 2004 Devils Player of the Year.

Now, as Jeremy steps into coaching, he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for Runaway Bay.

Paul Kuhnemann

I'm Paul Kuhnemann, and my life has been a thrilling ride through the rugby league world, sprinkled with playing exploits, coaching adventures, and a deep love for the game.

My rugby league journey kicked off at the ripe age of 6, donning the Wests Bulldogs jersey in Toowoomba. Picture a little tyke, just discovering the joy of chasing a ball around the field. Fast forward to the age of 19, and I've etched my early memories with Wests Bulldogs, including a heart-pounding A-Grade grand final at 17, side by side with my brother.

At 19, I packed my bags and headed to the vibrant Gold Coast, joining the Seagulls for the next chapter of my seniors playing career. The next 11 years saw me proudly representing Runaway Bay in numerous Grand Finals, with each game adding to the tapestry of my rugby league story.

In 2010, a new chapter unfolded as my two sons laced up their boots for the Bay. I decided to trade my playing boots for a coaching hat, and for the next 11 years, I mentored budding talents at Runaway Bay. Beyond the club, I've had the privilege of coaching representative teams in both the Gold Coast and South East Queensland, shaping the next generation of rugby league stars.

When it comes to cheering from the sidelines, my heart belongs to the Brisbane Broncos, and I've always had a soft spot for legends like "The King," Darren Lockyer, and JT. Beyond the rugby league arena, I find joy in sports like cricket, NFL, and NBA, adding a dash of excitement to my sporting palette.

Reserve Grade

Troy Mclean

My love for football started at the age of 5 in Canberra, where I began my journey into the sport. My junior career found its conclusion at Cudgen, paving the way for my senior football years at Murwillumbah Mustangs.

In 2007, I ventured into coaching with the Murwillumbah Mustangs reserve grade. By 2010, I took over the A-grade role, achieving a highlight with both the minor and major premiership wins in 2012. Following this, I coached the Casino Cougars from 2013 to 2015, had a stint with the Bilambil Jets in 2016, and returned to Murwillumbah in 2020 to coach the Reserve grade through 2023.

Over the years, I've had the opportunity to guide teams through six Grandfinals, experiencing both victories and defeats. It's been a journey of growth, learning, and a continuous love for the game.

Troy 'Duke" Bellamy

Meet Troy ‘Duke’ Bellamy, the vibrant Head Coach of the Runaway Bay RLFC Under 20's for the 2024 season. If you're wondering who brings the energy, expertise, and a whole lot of fun to the game, you've found your guy!

Coaching Adventures:

With an NRL Accreditation ID that's longer than a winning streak, Duke's coaching journey is the stuff of legends:

- 2019: Assistant Coach under 15's - High-fives in the Grand Final

- 2020: Head Coach under 16's - Took the trophy home with style

- 2021: Assistant Coach under 16's Cyrell Connell Cup - Navigated the cup like a boss

- 2021: Head Coach under 18's - Landed a cool 5th place, no biggie

Picture this: a six-year-old Duke kicks off his rugby league adventure at Runaway Bay in 1980. Fast forward through the years, and you've got a player who's danced across fields like nobody's business:

- 1980-1992: Runaway Bay Juniors - Where it all began, a.k.a. Duke's playground

- 1992: Queensland School Boys Team - Showing off those early skills

- 1993: Runaway Bay under 19's & A-grade - Duke's double whammy debut

- 1994 & 1995: South Qld Crushers under 21's - Brisbane A-grade Comp - Making waves in the Brisbane scene

- 1996: Hunter Mariners & Western Reds - ARL Reserve Grade Comp - Because one team wasn't enough!

- 1997: Paris Sint Germain PSG - Europe Super League Comp - Ooh la la!

- 1999: Runaway Bay Leagues Club - A-grade Comp - Homecoming for the win!

Duke's not just about wins and losses; he's all about the laughs, the highs, and the camaraderie that makes rugby league unforgettable. Join us in welcoming Duke's infectious spirit as he leads the Under 20’s in 2024.