Ricky Stuart right to declare his belief that Canberra can win the NRL premiership

DEAN RITCHIE: Bravo, Ricky Stuart. Finally, an NRL coach prepared to show some public passion. To offer an emotional and forthright opinion.

BRAVO, Ricky Stuart. Finally, an NRL coach prepared to show some public passion. To offer an emotional and forthright opinion.

How utterly refreshing.

Stuart said on Tuesday what others appear too timid or frightened to predict. That his team can actually win the premiership.

Good on him for showing so much gumption and refusing to hide behind tedious cliches we in the media must endure every day.

Stuart told The Daily telegraph: “We have the team to win the grand final and I have told the players that. I want the players to know my thoughts and I won’t be shying away from them. I believe in my comments and my players. I told the players three months ago we can win the grand final.”

Ricky Stuart has given his players all the belief they need. Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images.

His comments show just how excited Stuart is about his side. And can imagine the emotional boost these quotes will give his team?

No doubt Stuart will attract criticism for showing so much confidence and optimism. Let’s all bring him down on social media today. Give him a boot along the way too. How dare he say something that isn’t the generally accepted quotes?!

Stuart was close to tears when giving a speech at Canberra’s presentation night on Monday. He has a deep and special bond with his side. Why? Because he tells them what they want to hear.

None of this ‘we’ll take one game at a time’ and ‘they will bounce back’ or ‘our opponents will start favourites’ rubbish. Stuart spoke honestly and openly.

Ricky Stuart always played with a big heart. He is now wearing that same heart on his sleeve. Good on you, Sticky.