The Coaching Collective: How a Chance Living Arrangement Sparked a Rugby League Resurgence

The story of three rugby league coaches living together is one that could have easily been relegated to the realm of reality TV. Instead, it has become a fascinating case study in team dynamics and the power of camaraderie.

At first glance, the arrangement seems incongruous with typical expectations of professional sports coaches. Coaches are often seen as authoritative figures, distant from their players and colleagues. Yet, for Justin Holbrook, Brett White, and Steve Hales, living together in a three-bedroom Airbnb on Newcastle’s Bar Beach proved to be a turning point for the Knights rugby league team.

The trio had never worked together before, but by sharing a living space, they formed an unbreakable bond that helped them identify their coaching philosophy. As Holbrook noted, “It was the best thing for us.” By being in close proximity, they communicated effectively, shared ideas, and supported each other through long hours of pre-season training.

Their daily routine included swimming at the beach after work, playing wall tennis with locals, and taking training sessions into the community. These activities fostered a sense of camaraderie and helped build relationships between players and coaches. Holbrook mentioned that there was always something going on, “it was always upbeat.”

The housemates’ differing personalities added complexity to their living arrangement. Holbrook and White were early risers who valued discipline and hard work, while Hales was more laid-back, preferring to stay up late and enjoy his leisure time. Their contrasting lifestyles created a dynamic where the team’s coaches learned from each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

The success of the coaching collective can be measured by the team’s incredible turnaround in 2026. Under their leadership, the Knights became the NRL’s biggest improvers that season, with Holbrook being one of the leading contenders for the Dally M coach of the year award.

Their approach to coaching has been hailed as innovative and effective, built on a foundation of trust, respect, and open communication between coaches and players. As Holbrook stated, “We had a lot of work to do as players and coaches, but we all gelled together and we’re enjoying what we’re doing.” This positive attitude translated into the team’s performance on the field, making the Knights a force to be reckoned with in the NRL.

The experience of Holbrook, White, and Hales raises questions about traditional sports coaching. For too long, coaches have been seen as isolated figures, separated from their players by a barrier of authority and distance. The story suggests that this model may be outdated.

By living together and working closely, they created an environment where communication, trust, and collaboration thrived. This approach not only improved relationships but also led to better decision-making on the field.

The experience offers valuable lessons for future sports coaching. By embracing a more collaborative and personal approach, coaches can build stronger relationships with their players and create a culture of trust and respect within the team. The story serves as a reminder that success in sports is not just about X’s and O’s on the field but also about the people involved.

In the end, the story of the coaching collective is one of friendship, trust, and teamwork. It shows us that even in the high-pressure world of professional sports, relationships can be built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding.