Many May Not Believe This, but O’Brien Is One of the Best Coaches Knights Have Ever Had……
In the wake of Adam O’Brien’s departure from the Newcastle Knights, much of the focus has been on the struggles that marked the end of his tenure. However, when viewed in the broader context of the club’s history, O’Brien stands as one of the most impactful coaches the Knights have had in many years.
O’Brien arrived in Newcastle in 2020, inheriting a side that had struggled for consistency and direction. Within his first season, he guided the Knights to their first finals appearance since 2013, instilling belief in a squad that had endured years in the lower half of the ladder. Under his leadership, the team secured back-to-back finals berths in 2020 and 2021, something the club had not achieved since the early 2000s.
Critics often point to the Knights’ shortcomings in big games, but O’Brien’s ability to rebuild the culture and attract talent cannot be overlooked. He played a crucial role in developing young stars and revitalizing the careers of senior players, laying a foundation that future coaches will build upon.
While his final season ended with disappointment, the reality is that few coaches in recent history have managed to restore Newcastle’s competitiveness the way O’Brien did. Beyond the results, he brought professionalism, resilience, and a clear vision for the club’s future.
Many may not believe it now, but in time, O’Brien’s contributions will likely be remembered as a turning point for the Knights. His tenure showed that Newcastle could once again compete with the NRL’s best—a legacy that cements his status as one of the club’s finest coaches in recent years.
