In 2025 Hull Kingston Rovers etched their name into Super League folklore by becoming only the fifth club in the competition's three‑decade history to capture the Grand Final trophy. The achievement was largely credited to head coach Willie Peters, who in just his third season at the helm guided the Robins up an almost mythical ascent, likened by many to scaling Everest.
Under his stewardship the side not only lifted the Betfred Super League crown but also secured the League Leaders' Shield, added a Challenge Cup triumph, and capped the year with a World Club Challenge victory over the Brisbane Broncos. Each piece of silverware was earned on the field, confirming Hull KR as the team to beat, even if rivals struggled to match their consistency. Mid‑season it was disclosed that the 2026 campaign would be Peters' final year with the club.
He had accepted an offer to take charge of the newly‑formed Papua New Guinea Chiefs in the NRL, a move that would see him transition from the English game back to the Australian league. The announcement set a clear objective for the Robins: finish the season on a high note for their departing manager. Unfortunately, the story did not conclude with a fairy‑tale ending. After finishing sixth in the regular season standings, Hull KR were eliminated in the first knockout round by Warrington Wolves, ending Peters' four‑year tenure on a bittersweet note.
Reflecting on the season, Peters told Sky Sports that discipline had cost the side dearly in the loss, yet he refused to place blame on his players. "I'm really proud of them," he said. "They fought until the final whistle. Warrington were a strong side all year and deserved the win, but the effort our lads showed was commendable.
We created many beautiful memories together." He recounted the drama of the match, noting that playing with only twelve men made the contest even tougher. The Robins had managed to surge ahead by two points, only for the Wolves to snatch a late score that swung the result. Fatigue, he admitted, began to creep in during the closing stages, a factor that inevitably affects any high‑intensity game.
Peters praised veteran Peta Hiku for his three‑year contribution, acknowledging that the forward’s sending‑off was a mistake but emphasizing his overall impact on the squad. The coach also highlighted the close‑knit nature of Hull KR, a club that has always harboured ambitions of winning trophies and, under his guidance, succeeded in doing so. "We were beaten, but we never lost our fighting spirit," he added. "My family and I have had an absolute ball here.
We’ll never forget our time in Hull." Love and community were recurring themes in Peters' farewell remarks. He recalled a comment from former South Sydney Rabbitohs star Russell Crowe about the importance of love in sport, noting that when a team feels like a family and everyone looks out for one another, extraordinary things can happen. "I’ve felt the love from the fans, the players, and the staff, and I love them back," he said.
"That mutual care creates a special environment where achievements become possible." Looking ahead, Peters expressed excitement about his upcoming role with the PNG Chiefs. He described the prospect of influencing rugby league in Papua New Guinea both on and off the field as a larger‑scale version of what he accomplished at Hull KR. "I’m eager to make a positive impact on a nation that lives and breathes rugby league," he said.
"The challenge is huge, but that’s exactly why I’m thrilled." Although his chapter in the United Kingdom is closing, Peters admitted he would never completely close the book on the UK. His immediate goal is to secure a head‑coaching position in the NRL, but he pledged to continue supporting the European competition and advocate for the recognition it deserves.
"This has been home for us, especially this past year, which made leaving even harder," he reflected. "My family and I have loved it here, so you never say never." Peters also praised the broader rugby league community in England, noting the sport’s positive trajectory and the growth opportunities that lie ahead. He highlighted that the product on the field is now finally receiving the acknowledgment it merits, even across the Tasman Sea. "Super League hasn’t always gotten the respect it deserves, but I have always respected it," he said.
"That’s why I played here and why I wanted to coach here. I’m proud to have been part of it, and I look forward to ticking off the next set of goals when I return to the NRL." He concluded by thanking everyone who had supported him: the players, the board, the fans, and even the travelling supporters. "The support has been incredible and has made me a better person and a better coach," he said. "I will miss Hull KR dearly, but I’m grateful for the memories and the love that will stay with me forever." The Super League play‑offs continue, with Hull KR’s season ending in the eliminator against Warrington.
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 drama of the post‑season underscores the competitive spirit that Peters helped foster during his successful, albeit brief, tenure at Hull KR.