Greg Marzhew, now a star winger for the Newcastle Knights, shares a unique bond with coach Justin Holbrook, having been coached by him previously at the Gold Coast Titans. Marzhew was a fringe player under Holbrook at the Titans, often left out of the team as he learned his craft. Now reunited at the Knights, their relationship has evolved significantly.
Marzhew played 25 NRL games for the Titans during Holbrook's tenure from 2020 to 2023. He joined the Knights in a trade for Chris Randall after the 2022 season and has since solidified his spot on the left wing. Marzhew credits consistent game time outside centre Bradman Best for his development, noting that his preferred side is actually the right.
Holbrook has focused on maximizing Marzhew's strengths, according to teammate Phoenix Crossland. 'Justin has come in and he hasn't tried to change anyone,' Crossland said. 'He knows Greg is not going to run a marathon... He is a power athlete, and his role is to take those yardage carries and bump people off and score.'
Marzhew has scored 13 tries in nine games this season, including eight in the last two matches. He recently signed a contract extension until the end of 2029, turning down higher offers from other clubs. Knights recruitment manager Peter O'Sullivan praised his form, saying, 'Greg has been in stellar form... he produces tries that others just can't score.'
The Knights, currently eighth, have re-signed several key players including captain Kalyn Ponga until 2030. Marzhew believes a premiership push is near, stating, 'I'm passionate about the way I feel about these boys and the group that we have here.' The duo will face their old club, the Titans, at Magic Round on Sunday.
