Speaking after Pay was confirmed as the new head coach at the Canterbury Bulldogs, Walkom said it was clear during his time back at the helm of his hometown club the one-time tough back-rower had what it takes to achieve at the highest level.

And no moment made that as clear as a post-game conversation after the Forbes Magpies downed a Pay-coached Fishies 22-14 midway through the 2008 season.

“We played Forbes at No. 1 Oval and they whipped our butt,” Walkom said.

“I was devastated and spoke to Dean after the game and asked him what we were going to do and he said ‘we’ll be right’ as simple and as calm as that.”

Walkom hailed Pay’s demeanour and calmness and after keeping in touch with the St John’s junior during the past decade he said they are qualities he still possesses.

Pay’s ability to get the best out of his players was evident in 2007 when he guided CYMS to the Group 11 premiership, losing just one match along the way, while he he got the Fishies to the grand final again in 2008.

Pay was unable to record two title wins in a row, suffering defeat at the hands of crosstown rivals Macquarie in the biggest game of the season.

“The way he could just communicate with all the players,” Walkom said of Pay’s strengths.

“His demeanour. He was always calm.”

After two years as coach of the Fishies, Pay made the huge move to France where he acted as assistant under Kevin Walters.

That move came as no shock to Walkom or anyone involved with CYMS.

Pay had seemed like someone destined for bigger things ever since he returned home to Dubbo after a stellar playing career.

A powerful back-rower, Pay played 108 matches with the Bulldogs before making a move to Parramatta, where he played 76 games, while he also played 12 Origins for NSW and 10 test matches for his country.

“He definitely has aspirations to be successful in the coaching arena. There’s no doubt about that,” Walkom said.

“And to be the newly-appointed coach of the Bulldogs is a proud moment for Dean and his family and a proud moment for the (CYMS) club to see him tick another box.”

Walkom said having another country product in a head coaches role was “great for the game”.

Melbourne’s Craig Bellamy is still seen from time to time in a jersey from his junior club at Portland, the village near Lithgow, at Storm training sessions.

“It reflects well on Country Rugby League but particularly Group 11 and Western Division,” Walkom said.

“Not only are we able to produce players but also administrators and coaches. Just look at (Andrew) ‘Bobcat’ Ryan and the work he’s done in the media now.

“That all reflects well on Group 11 because it’s where they all kicked off.”