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 capture the Super League Grand Final. This remarkable achievement was largely credited to the stewardship of Willie Peters, who, in just his third season at the helm, guided the Robins on a meteoric rise that many likened to scaling Everest. Under his direction the team not only seized the Betfred Super League title but also secured the League Leaders' Shield, lifted the Challenge Cup, and capped the season with a World Club Challenge triumph over the Brisbane Broncos. Each piece of silverware was earned on the field, cementing Hull KR as the side to beat, even if no opponent could ultimately dethrone them.
Mid‑season it was revealed that the 2026 campaign would be Peters' swan song with the Robins, as he prepared to embark on a new venture as head coach of the Papua New Guinea Chiefs, the newest franchise in the NRL. The club set a clear objective for his final year: finish on a high note and give the departing boss a proper send‑off. Unfortunately, the story did not conclude with a fairy‑tale ending. After finishing sixth in the regular season, Hull KR were knocked out in the elimination round by Warrington Wolves, ending Peters' four‑year tenure on a bittersweet note.
Despite the early exit, Peters reflected on his time in Hull with unmistakable pride. "These have been the best four years of my life," he told Sky Sports after the defeat, acknowledging that discipline issues had cost the side dearly on the night but insisting he could not fault his players. "I am really proud of them. They fought until the final whistle.
Warrington played a superb game and have been a strong side all year. I wish them the best, but I am incredibly proud of the group and what we have achieved together. We have created countless beautiful memories." He described the intensity of the match, noting how playing with twelve men forced the team to dig deep.
"We put ourselves back in the game, took the lead, and then, against the flow of play, they scored. Fatigue set in towards the end, and Peta Hiku, who has been a cornerstone for us over three seasons, was sent off – a decision I think was harsh, but his contributions have been outstanding." Peters also spoke about the close‑knit nature of the club. "We are a family, a community that wanted trophies and we delivered. The fight we showed tonight encapsulates what this club stands for.
We were beaten, yet we never lost our spirit. My family and I have had an absolute ball here; we will never forget our time at Hull KR." The emotional connection extended beyond the pitch. Peters recalled a piece of advice from former South Sydney Rabbitohs great Russell Crowe: "It’s all about love," a mantra that resonated with him throughout his Hull tenure. "When you create an environment where everyone cares for each other, extraordinary things happen.
The love from the fans, the players, the staff – it’s mutual and powerful." Looking ahead, Peters expressed excitement about his upcoming role in Papua New Guinea, emphasizing his desire to make a positive impact both on and off the field. "It’s similar to what we did here, but on a larger scale. I’m thrilled about the challenge and eager to contribute to the growth of rugby league in PNG." Although his chapter in the UK is closing, Peters admitted he has not ruled out a future return.
"I have ticked the box of coaching in the Super League, but I will never close the book on the UK. For now, my focus is on the NRL head‑coach role, yet I will continue to champion the European competition and ensure it receives the recognition it deserves," he said. He praised the Hull KR community, describing the city as his home and acknowledging how difficult it was to leave. "This year felt like home for the first time, making the departure even harder.
My family and I have loved it here; you never say never," he added. Peters also highlighted the broader health of the sport.
"The rugby league community here has been fantastic. The game is in a positive place with a lot of growth potential in the coming years. The product on the field is outstanding and finally getting the respect it deserves, even in Australia.
Super League hasn’t always been given the respect it merits, but I have always respected it – that’s why I played and coached here." He concluded with heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported him. "Thank you for the memories, for the support that made me a better person and a better coach. The board, the staff, the fans – you have all been incredible.
I will miss Hull KR dearly, but I carry these experiences forward into my next adventure." The Super League play‑offs continue, with upcoming fixtures including Wakefield Trinity versus Leigh Leopards on September 18, Warrington Wolves versus Hull KR on September 19, and semi‑finals slated for September 25 and 26. The season will culminate in the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3, live on Sky Sports.