In 2025 Hull KR etched their name into the annals of rugby league by becoming only the fifth club in the competition's three‑decade history to lift the Super League Grand Final trophy. That remarkable achievement was largely credited to the stewardship of head coach Willie Peters, who in just his third season at the helm guided the Robins to an unprecedented haul of silverware. Under his direction the team not only captured the Betfred Super League title but also secured the League Leaders' Shield, added the Challenge Cup to their cabinet, and capped the year with a decisive World Club Challenge victory over the Brisbane Broncos.
In short, every major trophy on offer fell into Hull KR's hands, establishing them as the benchmark side of the year. Mid‑season it was announced that the 2026 campaign would be Peters' final one with the Robins, as he had accepted an invitation to take charge of the newly formed NRL franchise, the Papua New Guinea Chiefs. The club set a clear objective for his swansong: finish the season on a high note and give the departing coach a proper send‑off. Unfortunately for the east‑Hull faithful, the narrative did not unfold as a fairy‑tale.
After finishing sixth in the regular‑season standings, Hull KR were knocked out in the elimination round by Warrington Wolves, ending Peters' four‑year spell without the dramatic climax many had hoped for. Despite the abrupt exit, Peters reflected on his time in Hull with unbridled pride, describing the period as "the best four years of my life." In a post‑match interview with Sky Sports he acknowledged that discipline issues had cost the side dearly on the night of the defeat, yet he refused to place blame on his players.
"I am really proud of them," he said. "They fought until the final whistle. Warrington played an excellent game and have been a strong side all season.
I wish them the best, but I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together over the last four years. We have created countless beautiful memories." Peters went on to explain the challenges faced during the match, noting that playing with only twelve men made it difficult to maintain momentum. He recalled a moment when Hull KR surged ahead by two points, only for Warrington to level the scores against the flow of the game.
Fatigue, he admitted, began to set in during the latter stages, and a controversial sending‑off of Peta Hiku—who had been a stalwart for the club over three seasons—added to the disappointment. Nonetheless, Peters praised Hiku's contributions, describing him as "outstanding" throughout his tenure. The coach also emphasized the close‑knit nature of the club, its hunger for trophies, and the resilience shown by the squad even in defeat. "We were beaten, but we still displayed a lot of fight," he said.
"My family and I have had an absolute ball here. We have loved every moment and will never forget our time at Hull KR." Love, according to Peters, was a driving force behind the success.
He recalled a remark made years earlier by Russell Crowe during his time at the South Sydney Rabbitohs: "It's all about the love," a sentiment that resonated deeply with Peters. He believes that when a sporting environment feels like a family—where players, staff, and supporters genuinely care for one another—extraordinary achievements become possible. "There is no doubt I have felt the love from the fans and the players, and I love them back," he affirmed.
"When there is genuine care and love, you can accomplish special things." Looking ahead, Peters expressed excitement about his upcoming role in Papua New Guinea, describing it as a chance to make a positive impact both on and off the field. He likened the new challenge to the work he has done in Hull, but on a larger scale, and said he is eager to bring his experience to a nation where rugby league holds a special place in the culture.
Although his chapter in the UK is closing, Peters admitted he would not completely shut the door on a return. For now, his focus is on securing a head‑coaching position in the NRL, while continuing to advocate for the European competition and ensuring it receives the recognition it deserves.
"We have loved it here. This has been home, and this year felt more like home than ever before, which makes leaving even harder," he said.
"My family and I have loved it, so you never say never." Peters also praised the broader rugby league community in Hull, noting the sport's positive trajectory and the growth opportunities on the horizon. He highlighted that the product on display is finally being acknowledged internationally, even in Australia, and that the Super League deserves greater respect—a belief that motivated his own playing and coaching career in the competition. In his closing remarks, the coach thanked everyone who had supported him throughout his tenure.
He highlighted the board's unwavering backing, the dedication of the players, and the passion of both home and away fans. "The support I've received has been incredible," he said. "Thank you for the memories, for making me a better person and a better coach." The Super League play‑offs continue, with Hull KR's elimination setting the stage for the remaining fixtures: Wakefield Trinity vs Leigh Leopards on September 18, Warrington Wolves vs Hull KR on September 19, followed by the semi‑finals on September 25 and 26, culminating in the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3. The season may have ended for Peters in Hull, but the legacy he leaves behind—four trophies, a united club culture, and a blueprint for future success—will endure for years to come.