The Penrith Panthers have made the shocking and unexpected announcement that head coach Ivan Cleary has left the team due to unanticipated circumstances. The announcement, which signals the end of a golden age for one of the NRL’s most successful and powerful clubs in recent history, has rocked the rugby league community.
In his second spell with the Panthers, Cleary has been head coach since 2019. He leaves behind a record of quality, consistency, and a winning culture that changed the club’s identity. The Panthers became one of the most powerful dynasties in contemporary rugby league history under his guidance, winning three straight NRL Premierships in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The club confirmed the decision in a succinct but sincere statement, stating that Cleary’s departure was a mutual choice motivated by “personal and unforeseen circumstances.” His achievements were much appreciated, and he was described as “a coach who not only built champions on the field but leaders off it” in the statement.
Known for his cool head and strategic acumen, Cleary turned Penrith into a force to be reckoned with, based on discipline, teamwork, and youth development. Rising talents like Dylan Edwards, Jarome Luai, Brian To’o, and Nathan Cleary thrived because of the atmosphere he fostered. His leadership style struck a balance between ambition and humility, and the Panthers’ success was largely attributed to his capacity to instill trust and accountability in the players.
The club confirmed the decision in a succinct but sincere statement, stating that Cleary’s departure was a mutual choice motivated by “personal and unforeseen circumstances.” His achievements were much appreciated, and he was described as “a coach who not only built champions on the field but leaders off it” in the statement.
Known for his cool head and strategic acumen, Cleary turned Penrith into a force to be reckoned with, based on discipline, teamwork, and youth development. Rising talents like Dylan Edwards, Jarome Luai, Brian To’o, and Nathan Cleary thrived because of the atmosphere he fostered. His leadership style struck a balance between ambition and humility, and the Panthers’ success was largely attributed to his capacity to instill trust and accountability in the players.
There is already conjecture around possible successors as the Panthers get ready for life without their winning coach. However, one thing is certain: Ivan Cleary’s impact will continue to reverberate throughout the Panthers organization for many years to come.
This is the close of an incredible chapter for the Panthers and their supporters and the start of a new one shaped by the spirit of the man who established an empire.