In 2025 Hull KR etched their name in the annals of the Super League 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 on a remarkable ascent that many likened to scaling Everest. Peters' tenure was a period of unprecedented success for the East Hull side. Not only did they secure the Betfred Super League championship, but they also claimed the League Leaders' Shield and lifted the Challenge Cup, completing a rare domestic treble.
The crowning jewel came shortly thereafter when Hull KR triumphed over the Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge, cementing their status as the world's premier club side for that year. Every major trophy on offer fell into their hands, and for a time they were undeniably the team to beat, even though no opponent could finally dethrone them. Mid‑season it was announced that the 2026 campaign would be Peters' swan song with the Robins. He had accepted an invitation to lead 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 club set a clear objective for his final year: finish on a high note and give the departing coach a proper send‑off. Unfortunately, the story did not end with a fairy‑tale conclusion.
After finishing sixth in the regular season table, Hull KR entered the elimination round and were knocked out by Warrington Wolves. The loss was a disappointment for supporters in east Hull, who had hoped to see Peters' four‑year spell end on a triumphant high. Despite the abrupt exit, Peters reflected on his time at the club with unmistakable pride.
In a post‑match interview with Sky Sports, he described the last four years as "the best four years of my life" and expressed deep gratitude for the players, staff, and fans who had supported him. He acknowledged that discipline issues had cost the team dearly in the decisive game, yet he refused to place blame on his squad.
"Discipline has cost us a lot this year, and unfortunately tonight, but I can't fault them," he said. He went on to praise the resilience of his side, noting how they fought until the final whistle despite being reduced to twelve men. "We put ourselves in the game, scored, went two points ahead and then, against the run of play, they scored," he recounted.
Fatigue, he admitted, began to creep in during the latter stages, a factor that often influences high‑intensity matches. Peters also paid tribute to Peta Hiku, a key figure in the squad for three seasons. Although Hiku was sent off during the elimination match—a decision Peters felt was perhaps harsh—he emphasized the player's overall contribution: "He's been outstanding for me over the last three years." The coach highlighted the close‑knit nature of the Hull KR community, describing it as a family that cherishes both victory and adversity.
"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. Reflecting on his personal experience, Peters admitted that his time in Hull had been incredibly rewarding.
"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 said, adding that the affection he felt from fans and players alike was palpable.
He recalled a comment from Russell Crowe during his stint at the Sydney Rabbitohs, noting that love and camaraderie are the foundations of success in sport. Looking ahead, Peters expressed excitement about his forthcoming role with the PNG Chiefs. He sees the opportunity as a chance 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. I'm really excited about that challenge," he said. While Peters has achieved his goal of coaching in the Super League, he made it clear that he would not close the book on the UK permanently.
He remains a passionate advocate for the European competition and hopes it continues to receive the recognition it deserves. "The product is outstanding and it's finally getting the recognition it deserves, even in Australia," he observed, noting that the Super League has historically been under‑appreciated.
He praised the support network at Hull KR, the board's backing, and the broader rugby league community, stating that they have helped him grow both personally and professionally. "I've got a great support network and I've loved working with everyone. The rugby league community over here has been fantastic.
The game is in a positive place and I think there's a lot of growth ahead in the next few years," he remarked. As the 2026 season progresses, the Super League play‑offs continue to unfold on Sky Sports, culminating in the Grand Final at Old Trafford on October 3. Upcoming fixtures include Wakefield Trinity versus Leigh Leopards on September 18, Warrington Wolves versus Hull KR on September 19, and semi‑finals featuring Leeds Rhinos against Warrington Wolves on September 25 and Wigan Warriors versus Wakefield Trinity on September 26.
The drama of the play‑offs provides a fitting backdrop to the closing chapter of Peters' successful tenure at Hull KR, a period that will be remembered for its silverware, its spirit, and the lasting bonds forged between coach, players, and supporters.