Ivan Cleary to Step Down as Penrith Panthers Coach After 2024 Season

Ivan Cleary, 55, announced he will step down as Penrith Panthers coach after the 2024 season, with 18 months remaining on his contract. He will transition into an advisory role with the club, while assistant Peter Wallace is set to take over the coaching position. Cleary, who has been with the Panthers for 35 years as a player or coach, cited the need for clarity for the club, especially with several key players, including his son Nathan Cleary, Captain Isaah Yeo, and Liam Martin, off-contract at the end of next season. Despite the team's current success, topping the NRL ladder with only one loss this season, Cleary emphasized his decision was not taken lightly but felt right for him, his family, and the club. He expressed a desire to explore other areas of the sport, possibly considering a representative coaching role in the future. Panthers chair Peter Graham hopes to retain all off-contract players. The announcement comes as the Panthers prepare to face the Dragons this weekend, seeking their 10th win out of 11 games. Cleary remains focused on the current season, stating, “This is not a time for thank yous or reflections, I still have 18 months in the saddle, so to speak. I honestly woke up this morning thinking about the Dragons and how we’re going to beat them this week.”