Knights part company with Adam O'Brien

Newcastle Knights coach Adam O'Brien has confirmed he will part company with the Knights at the end of season.

O'Brien appeared at a press conference in Newcastle to announce his departure after agreeing to terms with the Knights on a mutual separation, releasing from the remaining two years of his employment contract with the club.

He will complete his commitments for the remainder of the National Rugby League season, including the last two games.

“It has been a wonderful privilege to coach this amazing club,” O’Brien said of his five seasons in Newcastle.

“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 six 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.

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