Hull KR captain Elliot Minchella has admitted he will be “forever grateful” to Willie Peters as the departing coach prepares to leave the Robins after four remarkable years.
Peters leaves behind a remarkable legacy at Hull KR, having guided the club to a historic treble in 2025 before another unforgettable triumph over Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge in February.
He ended Hull KR’s 40-year wait for major silverware with Challenge Cup glory against Warrington Wolves in June 2025, before lifting the League Leaders’ Shield and later claiming Super League glory over Wigan Warriors at Old Trafford.
Both the Challenge Cup and Super League triumphs sparked memorable homecomings, with thousands of fans descending on the streets for open-top bus parades. The celebrations culminated in Queen Victoria Square, with an estimated 30,000 supporters turning out in total.
Peters has been at the heart of one of rugby league ’s biggest success stories, earning his chance in the NRL with the PNG Chiefs after making no secret of his ambition to coach in the competition one day.
The Australian embraced East Hull and its people during his time at the club and was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Hull last year.
He also became the first coach to win the Super League Coach of the Year award in back-to-back seasons, taking the honour in both 2024 and 2025.
And Minchella, speaking to Hull Live, admitted he will be forever grateful for the impact Peters has had on both him and the club.
“I’ll be forever grateful to him. For what he’s done for our club and me personally, I can’t thank him enough,” said the 30-year-old.
“I wish him all the best for what he does next.
“He’s challenged me and knows how to press my right buttons. His people skills are second to none.
“He knows how to get the best out of everybody. What works for me is probably different to someone else – and he nails that with everybody.
“The proof has been in the pudding and I’m sure he’ll be a massive success Down Under. We’ll be supporting him from afar.”