Ivan and Nathan Cleary Commit to Long-Term Future with Penrith Panthers
In a significant announcement for both the Penrith Panthers and their supporters, head coach Ivan Cleary and his son, star halfback Nathan Cleary, have officially confirmed their commitment to the club for the foreseeable future. The dynamic father-son duo, integral to the Panthers’ dominance in recent years, have outlined their plans to remain with the team, signaling continued success and stability for the NRL powerhouse.
Ivan Cleary, who has been with the Panthers since 2019, has played a crucial role in guiding the team to multiple NRL premierships, including back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022. His leadership has been instrumental in transforming Penrith into one of the most formidable sides in the competition. Under his guidance, the Panthers have not only been successful on the field but have also nurtured a strong club culture built on resilience, hard work, and unity.
Nathan Cleary, the face of the Panthers’ attack and one of the best playmakers in the NRL, has also firmly entrenched himself as one of the league’s most influential players. His on-field brilliance, alongside his leadership, has been vital in the club’s recent triumphs. Nathan’s ability to control the game and his knack for stepping up in crucial moments have made him a key figure in the team’s success.
The announcement comes as a huge boost for the club, its fans, and the wider NRL community, as both Ivan and Nathan Cleary have confirmed their intention to stay at Penrith for the long haul. This decision reaffirms their belief in the club’s vision and their shared ambition to continue building on the foundations that have made Penrith a dominant force in Australian rugby league.
For Ivan, the decision to stay was influenced by the strong team culture and the supportive environment that the Panthers offer. “Penrith feels like home for me,” Ivan said in a statement. “From the board to the players and the fans, it’s a place where everyone is committed to working hard and pushing each other to be better. I’m excited about the future we are building here.”
Nathan, who has grown up with the Panthers and seen his career flourish under his father’s coaching, expressed similar sentiments. “Penrith has been my home for my whole career. I’ve got a great connection with the club, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of something so special. The journey we’ve been on together is something I’ll always cherish, and I’m looking forward to continuing it for years to come.”
Both Ivan and Nathan Cleary’s decisions to extend their commitments to the Panthers come at a time when the club is continuing to develop some of the best young talent in the NRL. With the likes of young stars such as Jarome Luai, Brian To’o, and Viliame Kikau, the future looks bright for the Panthers. The Clearys’ leadership will ensure the team remains competitive and focused on further success.
Penrith Panthers CEO, Brian Fletcher, also expressed his satisfaction with the decisions of the Clearys. “Having both Ivan and Nathan Cleary committed to the club long-term is a massive win for us,” Fletcher said. “They embody the values of Penrith, and we’re thrilled that they’ve chosen to continue this journey with us.”
As the Cleary family prepares to continue their influential roles at the Panthers, fans will no doubt be eager to see what the future holds under their leadership. With Ivan’s experience and Nathan’s brilliance on the field, the Penrith Panthers are poised to remain a dominant force in the NRL for years to come.
