Newcastle Knights Head Coach reflected on his 142 NRL games, after being appointed for the 2020 season

The nib Newcastle Knights and Adam O’Brien have agreed to terms on a mutual separation, releasing the NRL Head Coach from the remaining two years of his employment contract with the Club.

O’Brien will complete his commitments for the remainder of the National Rugby League season, including the last two games as the Knights Head Coach.

The Knights Head Coach reflected on his 142 NRL games, after being appointed for the 2020 season.

“It has been a wonderful privilege to coach this amazing club,” said O’Brien.

“My immediate feeling is gratitude and pride; it has been an honour to coach the Knights.

“From the moment my wife Sharyn and I drove into the Hunter from Bateman’s Bay, we have immersed ourselves in this rugby league town and we have loved calling Newcastle our home.

“I would like to personally thank Chairman Geoff Coburn, Philip Gardner, the Wests Group Board of Directors, staff, players, members, and everyone who helped over the past 6 years, your support has been enormous, and I sincerely appreciate it.
“We leave with wonderful memories and friendships, along with the genuine belief the club is on the verge of achieving something special and the time is right for change.”

Newcastle Knights and Wests Group CEO Philip Gardner paid tribute to the significant contribution O’Brien has delivered during his tenure.

“I would like to thank Adam for his hard work and dedication to our club,” said Gardner.

“Under his leadership, the Knights returned to playing finals football for the first time since 2013, for 4 out of his 6 years in charge.

“In 2023, our NRL team finished in fifth place, delivering an unforgettable home semifinal victory in front of a sold-out McDonald Jones Stadium, creating scenes not witnessed in Newcastle for over 20 years. In his time at the club, the sold-out sign at McDonald Jones Stadium has been a regular feature.

“Adam will depart after 144 games as Knights Head Coach, sitting second on the all-time list behind Michael Hagan. We wish Adam and Sharyn all the very best for the future.”

Knights Director of Football and incoming Knights CEO Peter Parr will lead a process to select a new NRL Head Coach, who will be formally appointed by the Knights Board.