The partnership with the CRL means the Knights will field surplus first-graders in the Crusaders team in the NSW Cup next year instead of drafting them back to Newcastle clubs.

NRL general manager Steve Fleming said in The Herald yesterday that he was disappointed higher-profile Knights would not play in the Newcastle competition next year.

But Crow was confident the Knights would continue allocating some senior players to Newcastle clubs through the player placement program, which was introduced successfully this year.

The issue was discussed on Tuesday night at the Newcastle Rugby League's annual general meeting, at which Crow and deputy chairman Vince Murphy were reappointed unopposed as the league's representatives on the Knights board.

Crow said Knights coach Rick Stone had explained to him the benefits of keeping players together at the Crusaders.

"The player placement program will continue as far as the club ambassadors go, and the allocation of under-20s players to the local clubs," Crow said.

"It is believed that the Central Coast Crusaders will contribute the bulk of the squad down there, so there is still the possibility of some NRL contracted players being allocated to Newcastle clubs, we're just not sure of the extent of it yet.

"The clubs accepted that it was a commercial decision by the Knights board and CEO Steve Burraston, and the practicality and convenience of the fringe first-graders playing together and being coached together.

"The bond between the Newcastle Rugby League and the Knights remains as strong as ever."