Andrew Johns, a renowned figure in Newcastle rugby league, is advocating for the club’s new chief executive officer, Peter Parr, to focus on establishing academies in the Hunter region. This initiative aims to prevent talented juniors from leaving to join competing NRL teams. Parr, who starts his role on November 1, faces numerous challenges, including the potential dismissal of coach Adam O’Brien as the Knights strive to escape the threat of a wooden spoon and address the future of star fullback Kalyn Ponga.
Parr brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Cowboys, where he helped lead them to the 2015 NRL premiership, along with other significant roles such as with the NSW Blues in State of Origin. Johns expressed his support for Parr’s appointment, emphasizing his familiarity with Newcastle’s rugby league culture and the need for significant restructuring at the club.
During an interview, Parr revealed that one of his top priorities would be to negotiate a new contract for Ponga before he becomes available on the open market next year, despite Ponga’s commitment to his current deal until 2027. However, Johns insists that immediate attention is required on the club’s local talent development, as he highlighted a long-standing issue: the Knights have not produced a quality halfback since his playing days almost twenty years ago. Recent departures, like young five-eighth Cooper Votano to the Melbourne Storm, underscore this worry.
Johns suggested that Parr should look to emulate the success of Phil Gould’s initiatives at Penrith in revitalising junior development pathways. He pointed out that understanding the “blockages” in the club’s talent pipeline is crucial. “We need to build from within,” Johns stated, stressing the importance of shoring up local talent rather than solely relying on high-profile signings, which the Knights can ill afford amidst their current standings.
He proposed the establishment of academies in areas like Forster and Taree to nurture local talent, ensuring that promising players are engaged in the club’s system. “We must ensure talented kids are well-supported so they remain loyal to the Knights,” Johns added, advocating for structured coaching to prepare future players to seamlessly step into key positions when needed.
The Knights, currently struggling with injuries—Ponga and fellow fullback Fletcher Sharpe are both out for the season—hold position 15 on the ladder, having secured only six wins from 19 games this year. As the club navigates these challenges, Johns’ insights on restructuring the academy system may provide a pathway to rebuilding the team for sustainable success.