In 2025 Hull KR etched its name into the annals of rugby league history by becoming only the fifth club to capture the Super League Grand Final title in the competition's three‑decade existence. That remarkable achievement was largely the result of the strategic acumen and inspirational leadership of head coach Willie Peters. In just his third season at the helm, Peters guided the Robins up a metaphorical Mount Everest, delivering a historic treble that included the Betfred Super League championship, the League Leaders' Shield, and the Challenge Cup, before capping the year with a World Club Challenge victory over the Australian powerhouse Brisbane Broncos. Each piece of silverware was earned on the field, and for a time Hull KR were indisputably the side to beat, yet no opponent could match their dominance.

Midway through the 2026 campaign it was announced that the season would be Peters' swan song with Hull KR. He had accepted a new challenge: taking charge of the newly formed NRL franchise, the Papua New Guinea Chiefs.

The club set a clear objective for his final months – to finish on a high note and give the fans a fitting farewell. Unfortunately, the story did not unfold like a fairy‑tale.

After finishing sixth in the regular season standings, Hull KR were knocked out in the elimination round by Warrington Wolves, ending their playoff run earlier than hoped. Despite the abrupt exit, Peters reflected on his tenure with unmistakable pride. In an interview with Sky Sports after the defeat, he described the past four years as "the best four years of my life" and emphasized how proud he was of the squad's resilience.

"Discipline has cost us a lot this year, and unfortunately tonight, but I can't fault them," he said, acknowledging the fine margins that separate victory from defeat. He continued, "I am really proud of them.

They kept fighting to the end. Warrington played really well and have been a very good team all year.

I wish them all the best, but I'm really, really proud of the group and proud of what they've achieved over the last four years at the club. We've made a lot of beautiful memories." Peters also highlighted the challenges the team faced during the match, noting that playing with only twelve men made it difficult to maintain momentum. "When you're down to 12 men it makes it difficult, but we put ourselves in the game. We scored down the other end, went two points ahead and then, against the run of play, they scored," he explained.

Fatigue, a common adversary in high‑intensity rugby league, began to take its toll in the latter stages. He paid tribute to veteran centre Peta Hiku, who had been a cornerstone of the side for three seasons. "Peta has been great for us for three years.

What he did [get sent off] was probably the wrong thing, but he's been outstanding for me over the last three years," Peters remarked, underscoring the respect he holds for his players even when mistakes occur. The coach also spoke about the culture he helped foster at the club. "We've got a lot of great memories, that's for sure, but they're still here, still cheering for their team. We're a close‑knit club.

We're a club that wanted to win trophies, and we have, but the fight tonight shows what this place is about," he said. He praised the loyalty of the supporters, the camaraderie among the squad, and the shared ambition that drove the team to historic heights.

"We were well beaten, but we still showed a lot of fight. My family and I have had an absolute ball.

We've loved it over here and we'll never forget our time at Hull KR," he added, emphasizing the personal connections that made his tenure memorable. Love and belonging were recurring themes in Peters' reflections.

He recalled a piece of advice he once heard from rugby league legend Russell Crowe during his time at the South Sydney Rabbitohs: "It's all about the love," and he found that sentiment echoed in Hull KR's community. "I do feel loved, absolutely.

Love's important. I remember Russell Crowe saying years ago at South that it's all about the love, and there's something in that. When you're part of a family and create the right environment, especially in sport, where everyone cares about each other, you can do wonderful things," Peters said.

He stressed that genuine care between fans, players, and staff creates a fertile ground for extraordinary achievements. Looking ahead, Peters expressed excitement about his next chapter in Papua New Guinea.

"I love it over here. I'm really looking forward to the next chapter and to having a positive impact on a country (Papua New Guinea) through rugby league, both on and off the field," he explained.

He likened the upcoming role to his work at Hull KR but on a larger scale, noting the potential to grow the game in a nation where rugby league is already a passion. Even as he prepares to depart, Peters admitted he will never completely close the book on the United Kingdom. "While this particular chapter is closed for me and I have ticked off my goal of coaching in Super League, I admit I will never close the book on the UK," he said. Nonetheless, his immediate focus remains on securing a head‑coaching position in the NRL and continuing to champion the European competition.

He believes the Super League deserves greater recognition and is pleased to see its product finally receiving the respect it merits, even across the Tasman Sea. "We've loved it here. This has been home, and probably this year was the first time it really felt like home, which made it even harder knowing I was leaving. My family and I have loved it, so you never say never," he reflected, acknowledging the deep personal ties he has formed.

He praised the support network, the board, and the broader rugby league community that helped him grow both as a person and as a coach. Peters concluded with heartfelt gratitude. "Just thank you for the memories and thank you for the support they've given me.

They've made me a better person and a better coach," he said. He also recognized the role of the fans, including those traveling from away grounds, in creating an unforgettable atmosphere. "I also want to acknowledge the board, who have been incredibly supportive.

Everyone at Hull KR, I'm going to miss dearly. Thank you to everyone, including the away fans. The support I've received has been incredible. So, thank you," he added.

The Super League playoffs continue, with Hull KR's recent elimination paving the way for other clubs. Upcoming fixtures include Wakefield Trinity versus Leigh Leopards on September 18, Warrington Wolves against Hull KR on September 19, followed by semi‑finals on September 25 and 26 featuring Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves, Wigan Warriors and Wakefield Trinity.

The season will culminate in the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3, a fitting stage for the competition that has given Peters and Hull KR a period of unprecedented success. In summary, Willie Peters' four‑year spell at Hull KR will be remembered for its trophy haul, its community spirit, and the lasting bonds forged between players, staff and supporters.

As he prepares to embark on a new adventure in Papua New Guinea, the legacy he leaves behind in Hull remains a benchmark for future coaches and a source of pride for the club's loyal fan base.