Ivan Cleary: Panthers Are in ‘Good Space’ Despite Departure of Five Key Players
Penrith Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary remains optimistic about the team’s future despite the looming departure of five key players from their roster. In a recent interview, Cleary emphasized that the club’s overall structure and culture are in a strong position, even as they prepare for significant changes to their lineup.
The Panthers have been one of the most successful teams in the NRL in recent years, winning multiple premierships and consistently competing at the top of the league. However, with salary cap pressures and player movement in the competitive landscape of the NRL, the club is set to say goodbye to several pivotal figures who have been integral to their success.
Despite these departures, Cleary believes that the Panthers’ culture of excellence will ensure the team remains a formidable force in the coming seasons. He pointed to the club’s strong development system, which has consistently produced talented players who can step up when needed. “We’ve always been in a good space,” Cleary said. “The structure of the club, the systems in place, and the depth we’ve built over time have us in a position where we can handle these changes. It’s just part of the journey for any successful club.”
The players who will be leaving the Panthers include some well-known names who have been cornerstones of their dominance in the NRL. However, Cleary’s confidence stems from the fact that the club has been proactive in identifying future stars and ensuring their next wave of talent is ready to take on key roles.
Cleary’s faith in his team’s ability to adapt to change comes from years of careful planning and long-term vision. “We don’t just focus on winning today,” he explained. “We’re always thinking ahead, and that’s why we’ve been able to build such a strong, sustainable program. This isn’t about one season or one player—it’s about the long-term health of the club.”
The departures, while impactful, have also opened up new opportunities for rising stars within the Panthers system. Cleary pointed out that some of the younger players, who have been developing in the background, are now poised for bigger roles in the first team. “It’s an exciting time for the younger guys,” he said. “They’ve been learning from some of the best in the business, and now they get their chance to shine.”
The Panthers have also been active in the recruitment market, ensuring that their squad remains balanced and competitive. Cleary stressed that the club will continue to make smart, strategic decisions when it comes to player signings. “We’ll always look for the right players who fit our culture and values,” he said. “It’s not about splashing the cash; it’s about finding players who complement what we’re trying to build here.”
In Cleary’s view, the team’s unity and resilience will allow the Panthers to weather the challenges that come with player turnover. “We’ve been through changes before and come out the other side stronger,” he said. “That’s the strength of our club—the people, the culture, and the commitment to each other.”
As the Panthers prepare for the next chapter, Ivan Cleary’s leadership remains the anchor that will guide the team through these transitions. His unwavering belief in the club’s future ensures that the Penrith Panthers will remain a top contender in the NRL, regardless of the changes to their roster.
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