Premiership-Winning Coach Commits to Sixth Season
Luke Cunningham has confirmed he will remain as head coach of the Maitland Blacks for the 2026 season, putting speculation about his future to rest following the club's recent grand final victory. The two-time premiership-winning coach had considered stepping away after the Blacks' 25-17 triumph over Merewether in the 2025 decider but has now committed to chasing another slice of history with the club.
Family and Club Discussions Lead to Decision
Following extensive talks with his wife Tegan and club officials, the former Blacks captain decided he could maintain the commitment required for the coaching role. "I had to make sure I could commit the time that the job required," Cunningham explained. "For the success that we have had to continue, that commitment is getting bigger every year."
The coach emphasized that his decision wasn't driven by a loss of passion for the game. "It was never an issue of whether I had lost the love for it or lost the drive. I love doing it. I certainly think as a club we have only scratched the surface."
Stability Key to Maitland's Continued Success
The Blacks, who claimed premierships in both 2023 and 2025, now have their sights set on achieving consecutive titles - a feat the club hasn't accomplished since 1998-99. The coaching team remains largely unchanged with assistants Matt Jarrett and James Callum continuing their roles, while Jono O'Toole joins as skills coach.
Remarkably, the entire first-grade squad from the premiership-winning team will return for the 2026 campaign, with only retired duo Jimmy Johnston and Chris Logan moving on. "Talking to the players they are all still very hungry," Cunningham noted. "There is a great feel in the club."
The club's depth appears stronger than ever, with their second grade winning the premiership last year and a talented under-18 side - who were both major and minor premiers - preparing to transition into grade football.
Long-Term Vision for Club Success
Cunningham, who moved directly from playing into coaching, has been involved with the club every year since 1998, with the exception of 2020 when Hunter Rugby was suspended due to COVID-19. His commitment reflects a broader vision for sustained success at the Blacks.
"It's not about being successful for three or four years," Cunningham stated. "We want to set the place up so in 10 years time, we are at the top through all the grades. Create that pathway for the juniors to come into a successful senior side."
Maitland president Pat Howard highlighted the importance of Cunningham's retention to the club's stability. "We have seen the benefit of stability. Our committee has been the same for the past four years. Obviously, retaining Luke is a big part of that."
Howard praised Cunningham's selfless approach, noting: "He wasn't going to commit until he had spoken to the playing group and was confident he had their support. He has always been club-first."
The club has begun implementing a succession plan by developing coaches in the lower grades, though Howard acknowledged "it is not quite ready yet."
Hunter Rugby Coaching Stability Across Clubs
Stability appears to be a theme across Hunter Rugby's premier clubs for the upcoming season. Former All Black Marty Berry has been reappointed at Hamilton, while Nick Bampton will lead Merewether for a second year.
The University coaching team of Josh Meads, Dylan Heins and Dane Sherratt are committed until the end of 2027, with Luke Sherwood (Wanderers) and Va Talaileva (Southern Beaches) also indicating they will continue in their roles.
Anderson Medal Race Heats Up
Meanwhile, the race for Hunter Rugby's highest individual honour, the Anderson Medal, appears to be a contest between Merewether fly-half Adam Dankert and Maitland No.10 Hare Meihana. However, as with any best and fairest award, nothing is guaranteed until the winner is announced.
The Anderson Medal, along with the Cyril Scott Medal for best suburban player and Tina Chapman Medal for best women's player, will be presented at a gala dinner at Customs House on Saturday, November 29.
