BREAKING NEWS: Former Newcastle Knights Head Coach Mal Reilly, Who manage Newcastle Knights for four seasons, from 1995 to 1998, leading them to their historic first premiership win in the 1997 ARL Grand Final. He took over in 1994 for the 1995 season and left after the 1998 NRL season to return to England, sent a message to Newcastle Knights current Head Coach Justin Holbrook concerning…….
BREAKING NEWS: Mal Reilly Sends Powerful Message to Newcastle Knights Coach Justin Holbrook
Newcastle Knights fans have been sent into a wave of nostalgia and excitement after former head coach Mal Reilly reached out with a heartfelt and inspiring message to current Knights head coach Justin Holbrook, reaffirming his belief in the club’s direction and future.
Reilly, who coached the Newcastle Knights across four seasons from 1995 to 1998, remains one of the most respected figures in the club’s history. After taking over in 1994 ahead of the 1995 season, the legendary English coach masterminded the Knights’ historic first premiership, guiding the team to a memorable victory in the 1997 ARL Grand Final—a triumph that forever changed the club’s standing in rugby league.
Although Reilly returned to England following the conclusion of the 1998 NRL season, his connection to Newcastle has never faded.
A Message of Belief and Tradition
In his message to Holbrook, Reilly reportedly praised the current coach’s leadership and commitment to rebuilding the Knights into a competitive and resilient force.
“Newcastle has always been a club built on heart, toughness, and belief,” Reilly said. “What we achieved in 1997 came from unity, trust, and a coach who never wavered in his vision. I see those same qualities developing again under your leadership.”
Reilly encouraged Holbrook to remain patient and steadfast, emphasizing that sustained success in Newcastle has always come through long-term planning, player development, and an unbreakable bond with the club’s passionate supporter base.
Passing the Torch
Justin Holbrook is understood to have received the message with gratitude, acknowledging the enormous legacy Reilly left behind and the significance of hearing from the man who delivered the club’s first premiership.
For Knights fans, the exchange symbolizes a powerful bridge between the club’s golden past and its hopeful future—one where lessons from 1997 continue to guide the next generation.
Knights Community Reacts
The message has sparked strong reactions across the Newcastle rugby league community, with fans praising Reilly’s continued loyalty and welcoming his endorsement of Holbrook’s tenure.
As the Knights continue their push toward renewed success, one thing is clear: the spirit of 1997 still lives on, and voices like Mal Reilly’s continue to inspire belief that Newcastle can once again rise to the top of the NRL.
