Willie Peters’ tenure at Hull Kingston Rovers has drawn to a close, marking the end of a remarkable four‑year chapter for both the coach and the club. In 2025, under his leadership, Hull KR achieved a feat that had only been accomplished by four other clubs in the three‑decade history of the Super League – they lifted the Grand Final trophy. That triumph was just the beginning of a historic season.
Peters guided the Robins to a clean sweep of the major domestic honours: the Betfred Super League title, the League Leaders’ Shield, the Challenge Cup, and later a World Club Challenge victory over the Brisbane Broncos. Each piece of silverware was earned on the field, and for a time Hull KR were the team everyone feared but could not beat. Mid‑season it was announced that 2026 would be Peters’ final year in charge.
He had accepted a new challenge – the head‑coaching role with the Papua New Guinea Chiefs, the newest franchise in the Australian NRL. The club set a clear objective for his last campaign: finish on a high note and give the fans a fitting farewell. Unfortunately, the Robins’ story did not end with a fairy‑tale climax. After finishing sixth in the regular season, they were eliminated in the play‑off quarter‑finals by Warrington Wolves.
Despite the disappointment, Peters reflected on his time at Hull KR with pride and affection. In an interview with Sky Sports after the loss, he described the four years as “the best four years of my life.” He acknowledged that discipline issues had cost the side on several occasions, especially in the final match, but he refused to place blame on his players. "I’m really proud of them," he said. "They kept fighting to the end.
Warrington played a great game and have been a very strong side all season. I wish them all the best, but I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together." Peters highlighted the resilience the squad showed when they were reduced to twelve men, noting how they managed to get back ahead before ultimately being overtaken. He spoke fondly of Peta Hiku, who had been a key figure for three seasons.
Although Hiku’s sending‑off in the eliminator was a low point, Peters praised his overall contribution, calling him “outstanding” over his tenure. The coach also emphasized the close‑knit nature of the club and its supporters. "We’ve built beautiful memories, and the fans are still here, still cheering for us," he remarked.
"We are a club that wanted trophies, and we got them, but the fight we showed tonight encapsulates what this place is about." On a personal level, Peters expressed deep gratitude for the love he received from the Hull KR community. He recalled a comment from former South Sydney Rabbitohs legend Russell Crowe about the importance of love in sport, and he agreed that a family‑like environment enables extraordinary achievements. "There’s no doubt I’ve felt the love from the fans and the players, and I love them back," he said. "When you create an environment where everyone cares for each other, you can accomplish special things." Looking ahead, Peters is eager to begin his next chapter with the PNG Chiefs.
He described the upcoming role as an opportunity to make a positive impact on a nation where rugby league is a cultural cornerstone, both on and off the field. "It’s similar to what we’ve done here, but on a bigger scale," he explained. "I’m really excited about that challenge." Even as he prepares to leave the UK, Peters admits he will not close the book on British rugby league.
He has already achieved his goal of coaching in the Super League, but he remains committed to supporting the 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, which makes leaving harder," he admitted.
"My family and I have loved it, so you never say never." Peters also praised the broader rugby league ecosystem in the north of England. He highlighted the sport’s positive trajectory, noting that the product is now “outstanding” and finally gaining respect, even in Australia. While he believes the Super League has not always been afforded the respect it merits, he has always respected the competition, which is why he chose to play and later coach there. He concluded by thanking everyone who had supported him – the players, the board, the staff, the fans, and even the away supporters.
"You’ve all made me a better person and a better coach," he said. "I’m proud of the support network I’ve had and of the growth we’ve seen in the game. The future looks bright, and I’m grateful to have been part of it." The Super League play‑offs continue, with Hull KR’s season now over. Upcoming fixtures include Wakefield Trinity versus Leigh Leopards on September 18, Warrington Wolves versus Hull KR on September 19, and the semi‑finals on September 25 and 26, leading up to the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3.
The league remains a vibrant showcase of talent, and while Peters’ chapter in Hull ends, his legacy – a period of unprecedented success and a culture of love and determination – will be remembered by the club and its supporters for years to come.