LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

Holbrook Welcomes Back Club Legend in Major Cultural Shift

Incoming Newcastle Knights head coach Justin Holbrook is making swift moves to redefine the identity of the Knights by bringing back a club icon.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Holbrook has decided to appoint club legend Danny Buderus as an assistant coach, marking a significant shift in the team's management structure.

Buderus' rejoining signifies a considerable overhaul of the Knights' football department, especially following a challenging 2025 season, which resulted in the club's fourth wooden spoon in just 11 years and the departure of former coach Adam O'Brien.

As Holbrook prepares for his first pre-season with the team, he has confirmed that Buderus will be joined by Brett White and Steven Hales in this revamped coaching staff.

White, previously an assistant with the Titans and NSW Blues under coaches Laurie Daley and Michael Maguire, will be coming over from the Sea Eagles. Hales also transitions from Manly to work alongside Holbrook.

On the significance of Buderus' return, Holbrook praised the former Knights player for his profound cultural influence on the team. "He's the heart of the Knights," Holbrook remarked to the Daily Telegraph.