1988-1997 /

Born in 1988 sporting the famous red and blue jersey, which has now become synonymous with the town of Newcastle, the early years laid a strong foundation which would position the club for success in the years to come.

Pre-1988

Prior to the club's inception, the Knights were born out of a long-standing desire for Newcastle, a proud rugby league heartland, to have its own team in the top-tier New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) competition.

Founding fathers Leigh Maughan, Michael Hill and Gerry Edser were instrumental in the early initiatives of forming and building the club.

Maughan initially had a vision for a top‑tier Newcastle club in the mid‑1970s, when he believed the region deserved a place in the elite competition. 

In April 1987, it was announced the NSWRL would increase from 13 to 16 teams with the Newcastle Knights among the three clubs to join the competition in 1988.

Playing out of the Newcastle International Sports Centre (currently McDonald Jones Stadium), the early years paved the way for the Knights into the competition forging a connection between the club and community as a one-team town.

NSWRL 1988

The Newcastle Knights were formed under a name that reflected the spirit of their city — “Knights,” representing men of steel, a fitting tribute to Newcastle’s proud heritage as a steel town. The club entered the 1988 NSWRL competition with a youthful and determined squad, many drawn from the local area, laying the foundations for a strong future.

Sam Stewart was appointed as the club’s first captain, while Allan McMahon served as the inaugural first-grade coach. The side also featured a handful of experienced recruits alongside emerging local talent, striking a balance between toughness and enthusiasm. Stewart and fellow forward Adrian Shelford brought valuable international experience, having both represented New Zealand and the Rest of the World.

The Knights’ debut match took place on March 5, 1988, against the Parramatta Eels in Newcastle. Although the team went down 28-4, the day was memorable for the passion of the home crowd, with over 26,000 fans filling the stands to witness history. The Knights didn’t have to wait long for their first win, defeating Western Suburbs 20–16 in Round 2 — a milestone moment for the club.

Newcastle supporters embraced their new team wholeheartedly. Home games averaged around 21,000 fans, with a massive crowd of 30,000 packing in for the clash against the Brisbane Broncos — a sign of how quickly the Knights had captured the city’s heart. The team finished 14th in their debut season, but their spirited performances and never-give-up attitude earned them respect throughout the league.

At season’s end, Tony Butterfield was named the Knights’ Player of the Year, recognised for his work ethic and leadership. The 1988 season may not have delivered finals success, but it established the foundation for what would become one of the most passionate and community-driven clubs in rugby league.

NSWRL 1989

In their second season of competition, the Newcastle Knights continued to build on the platform laid in 1988. The club made several high-profile signings, bringing in five class players to boost the playing roster – among them Michael Hagan (arriving from the Bulldogs) and Mark Sargent. Hagan’s arrival was heralded as the club’s first true marquee signing, signalling the Knights’ ambitions.

Under coach Allan McMahon, the Knights developed into one of the competition’s tougher defensive units. Their structure and discipline improved, and for large parts of the year they were in contention for a semi-final berth. In the regular season they finished with an 11–11 record.

Though the first-grade side narrowly missed finals football, there was notable success in the Club’s lower grades: the President’s Cup side became the first Knights team to make the semi-finals, showing that the depth and future of the club were beginning to take shape.

Individually, Michael Hagan made his mark. He was selected for the Queensland State of Origin side in 1989, becoming the first Knight ever selected for Origin. Hagan was named as the Knights’ Player of the Year, meanwhile, Mark Sargent was awarded the Rothmans Medal for best and fairest in the competition in 1989.

Off the field the Newcastle faithful continued their strong support, with the average home crowd around 21,235 and a season-high of 27,612 for the Round 20 game versus the Brisbane Broncos.

Whilst the finals eluded them in 1989, the season was significant: the Knights had signed class depth, tightened their defence, and demonstrated the depth of the club’s program with their lower grades. 

NSWRL 1990

By 1990, the Newcastle Knights were no longer newcomers learning their way in the NSWRL. In just their third season, the club had begun to establish itself as a competitive force, combining youthful energy with emerging representative talent.

Mark Sargent became the first Newcastle Knight to represent Australia, touring England and France with the Kangaroos. He also earned selection for the New South Wales State of Origin team, a milestone that signalled the growing recognition of the club’s players at the highest levels of the game. Indeed, six Knights were named in the Australian train-on squad that year, reflecting the depth of talent emerging from the Hunter region.

On the field, the Knights finished the regular season in 6th place, narrowly missing a finals finish after a playoff loss to the Balmain Tigers. Their record of 13 wins, 7 losses and 2 draws, combined with a points differential of 344-for to 305-against, demonstrated the side’s increasing competitiveness and resilience. The home crowd continued to show remarkable support, averaging around 22,000 fans, with a season-high of 32,217 attending the final home clash against Balmain.

The attacking flair of the team was personified by Ashley Gordon, who finished the season as the competition’s equal top try-scorer for the Knights with 15 tries, thrilling fans with his speed and finishing ability. Half-back Steve Fulmer was awarded the club’s Player of the Year, recognised for his creativity, leadership, and pivotal role in guiding the side through one of its most accomplished seasons to date.

While the Knights’ finals campaign was brief, 1990 marked a turning point: the club had not only become a credible force on the field, but it had also firmly established itself as a breeding ground for representative talent. The season set the stage for future success, cementing Newcastle’s reputation as a proud rugby league city and the Knights as a team on the rise.

NSWRL 1991

A major change came off the field in 1991 with David Waite taking over as first-grade coach. His appointment signaled a new direction and renewed focus on developing consistency and competitiveness at the top level. Mark Glanville and Michael Hagan were ever-present throughout the season, playing in every match and providing vital leadership for the squad.

While first grade faced a difficult campaign, the reserve grade team enjoyed its most successful season to date, finishing sixth and showcasing the depth of talent emerging within the club’s ranks. 

1991 also brought Newcastle’s first piece of silverware, with the Knights claiming the pre-season Nissan Sevens trophy at Parramatta Stadium. Newcastle defeated the St George Dragons 24-22 in the final following an incredible finish. Entering the final 60 seconds of the final behind by four on the scoreboard, Marc Glanville snuck over the try-line to tie the game before Ash Gordon kicked a goal from the sideline to win the tournament for the red and blue. 

The season also featured representative honours. Mike McLean was selected for the Queensland State of Origin side. At club level, Marc Glanville’s outstanding performances were recognised as he was named Player of the Year, reflecting his consistency, work ethic, and influence both on and off the field.

NSWRL 1992

The 1992 season marked a major breakthrough for the Newcastle Knights, as the club reached the NSWRL semi-finals for the first time — just five years after joining the competition.

Under coach David Waite, the Knights enjoyed their most consistent and successful campaign to date, finishing fourth on the ladder at the end of the regular season. 

The Knights made an immediate impact in their first finals series, defeating Western Suburbs 21–2 in the qualifying final at the Sydney Football Stadium. 

Advancing to the minor semi-final, Newcastle met St George in a hard-fought encounter. In a tight, low-scoring contest, the Knights were narrowly beaten 3–2, ending their historic finals run but confirming their rise as a serious contender in the competition.

Off the field, the season also carried special significance. Foundation captain Sam Stewart was awarded Life Membership of the club, recognising his leadership and contribution to the Knights’ early years. Hooker Robbie McCormack was named the Knights’ Player of the Year, acknowledging his consistency, toughness, and influence throughout the campaign.

NSWRL 1993

Building on the club’s first finals appearance the previous year, the Knights continued to establish themselves as a respected and competitive force in the Winfield Cup in 1993.

While the first-grade side narrowly missed out on a return to the semi-finals, several milestones and representative honours highlighted the club’s growing stature in Australian rugby league. Front-rower Paul Harragon enjoyed a standout season, earning selection for Australia and re-selection for NSW at state level. He was also named the Representative Country Rugby League Player of the Year, recognising his performances at both club and representative level. Fellow forward Mark Sargent captained the City Origin side, giving Newcastle two of the most respected forwards in the representative arena.

The season also marked significant career achievements for three foundation players — David Boyd, Michael Hagan, and Marc Glanville — who each became the first Knights to reach 100 first-grade games for the club.

Club captain Michael Hagan brought his long association with Newcastle to a close at the end of the season, departing to play for Halifax in Great Britain. His leadership and influence during the club’s formative years were widely acknowledged as instrumental in shaping the Knights’ identity and professionalism.

Newcastle’s Reserve Grade side enjoyed an outstanding season, finishing as minor premiers and progressing all the way to the Grand Final. In a tightly contested decider, they were narrowly defeated 5–4 by North Sydney. A young Andrew Johns featured in the side that year.

In club honours, Marc Glanville was recognised for his consistent and wholehearted performances, earning the Knights’ Player of the Year Award. His work rate and reliability again made him one of the club’s most valuable contributors.

NSWRL 1994

The 1994 season was a year of transition and emerging talent for the Newcastle Knights, highlighted by the debut of one of the game’s future superstars.

Andrew Johns made his run-on first-grade debut against South Sydney, immediately making an impact in the Knights’ emphatic 43–14 win. Johns scored two tries, kicked seven goals, and added a field goal for a personal haul of 23 points, announcing himself as a player to watch in the years ahead.

Milestones continued for the club’s established players. Mark Sargent and Robbie McCormack each reached 100 first-grade games for the Knights, joining the exclusive group of foundation players to reach this mark and further cementing their legacy at the club.

The Reserve Grade side maintained its strong form, finishing as minor premiers and progressing to the Grand Final, where they were narrowly defeated by Cronulla 14-4. The continued success of the lower grades reflected the depth of talent coming through the club’s ranks.

 

The season saw a coaching change, with Malcolm Reilly appointed to replace David Waite as first-grade coach.

At the club awards, Robbie McCormack was named Player of the Year, recognised for his durability and consistency throughout another season of solid performances.

ARL 1995

The 1995 season was a landmark year for the Newcastle Knights, marked by record-breaking first-grade performances, major milestones, and significant representative honours.

In first grade, Newcastle finished fifth on the ladder. The team went undefeated until Round 10 and set a new club scoring record with 549 points and 92 tries over the season, demonstrating attacking potency and consistency.

The Knights enjoyed a historic three-week finals campaign, recording their first-ever finals victories. In the Qualifying Final, Newcastle defeated the North Sydney Bears 20–10, before overcoming the Cronulla Sharks 19–18 in the Semi-Final. Their season ended in the Preliminary Final, where they were narrowly defeated by the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, falling one game short of a Grand Final.

The Reserve Grade side continued their strong form, winning the premiership after reaching their third consecutive Grand Final, defeating Cronulla 22–10 at Sydney Football Stadium.

The season also marked the end of an era for several foundation players. Mark Sargent, Robbie McCormack, and Brad Godden all played their final seasons for Newcastle, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and professionalism.

Representative honours were a key feature of the 1995 season. Andrew Johns, Matthew Johns and Adam Muir represented Australia at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup with Andrew named Most Valuable Player of the Tournament. The Knights also had multiple players selected for State of Origin including Andrew and Matthew Johns (NSW), Adam Muir (NSW) and Robbie O'Davis (QLD).

At club level, Paul Marquet was named Player of the Year, recognised for his outstanding contributions and consistency across the campaign.

The 1995 season was a major step forward for the Newcastle Knights: record-setting first-grade achievements, significant representative honours, and success in the lower grades all underscored the club’s growing stature in the NSWRL.

ARL 1996

The 1996 season proved to be a noteworthy year for the Newcastle Knights, combining on-field achievement, representative honours, and the emergence of future stars.

One of the early highlights was the club’s success in the Rugby League World Sevens tournament. The Knights claimed their second World Sevens title, culminating in a dominant final where they defeated the North Sydney Bears 48–18. In earlier rounds, they recorded a 52–0 win over Canada and a 26–14 victory over New Zealand in the group stage. In recognition of his performance during the tournament, Andrew Johns was named Player of the Tournament.

Domestically, the Knights continued to host major events, with Marathon Stadium hosting the ARL Test match between Australia and Fiji, further raising the club’s profile as a venue of significance.

The representative presence of Knights players remained strong at both state and international levels. Forward Paul Harragon continued to excel, earning recognition as the Dally M Prop of the Year and Country Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, highlighting his dominance in the forward pack. Harragon also re-signed with the club for another two seasons, securing his future in Newcastle.

Youth also made its mark in 1996. The emergence of future star Owen Craigie saw him make his first-grade debut off the bench against the Brisbane Broncos at just 17 years, two months and 20 days old, the youngest player to debut in club history.

Within the year’s club awards, the durable and influential forward Tony Butterfield was named Player of the Year, recognising his consistent contributions across the season.

While the season did not yield a finals series berth—with the first-grade side finishing ninth on the ladder—the combination of tournament success, representative honours, and player development made 1996 an important stepping stone for the Knights, setting further foundations for future seasons.

ARL 1997

The 1997 season marked a milestone year for the Knights as they celebrated their 10th year in the competition and reached the pinnacle of their early years by claiming the club’s first premiership title.

Under coach Malcolm Reilly and captain Paul Harragon, the Knights ended the regular season in a strong position and entered the finals with genuine momentum. The team’s success culminated in the Grand Final of the ARL Optus Cup on 28 September 1997, where they faced the minor‑premiers Manly‑Warringah Sea Eagles. The Sea Eagles had led at half‑time 16‑8, and appeared in control, but the Knights mounted a comeback in the second half. With the game tied 16‑16 and only seconds remaining, the Knights seized the moment when young winger Darren Albert, on the last play, ran onto a desperate dummy‑half move from Andrew Johns, crossing the try‑line with no time left. The converted try sealed a dramatic 22‑16 victory for Newcastle. 

The Grand Final win was not only a dramatic finish but also deeply meaningful for the city and club. Around 70 per cent of the Knights’ squad were local juniors, and the victory lifted the spirit of a community that had faced economic challenges, including the closure of the local steelworks.

Additionally, the 1997 season featured a fairytale ending to the careers of two long‑serving Knights players: Marc Glanville and Adam Muir, who both departed the club having given many years of service to the club.

At the club’s annual awards, full‑back Robbie O’Davis was named Player of the Year for his consistent performances throughout the campaign, including his two‑try effort in the Grand Final for which he also received the Clive Churchill Medal for best on ground. 

The success of 1997 firmly positioned the Knights as a major force in the competition.