Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary will step down following the 2027 NRL season as head coach as he looks to taper off at the backend of his coaching career.
The club held an announcement last week, where Peter Wallace will take over as head coach in a succession plan to Cleary in 2028, following four-straight premierships from 2021 to 2024.
Cleary will be involved in a cultural and leadership role off the paddock following his tenure as head coach, but also revealed an important clue to where his future may lie.
During the press-conference, Cleary admitted he would be open to the idea of coaching a representative side if they deemed him fit for the role.
With plenty of options available for Cleary's services, there will be no-doubt lots of representative organisations ready to have him sign on the dotted line.
4. New Zealand Warriors
Cleary played 53 games for the New Zealand Warriors between 2000 and 2002, and became a prolific point scorer during his time with 439 points. He later returned to the Warriors to become head coach during 2006 and 2011. He recorded 77 wins, 74 losses and three draws during his tenure, including 4 finals appearances.
Despite Cleary making it abundantly clear that he has no interest in coaching another NRL side, a move to the Warriors in his career would become extremely popular among fans. In the midst of a code war with rugby union in New Zealand, his signature would do great things for the popularity of the sport if he were to sign on the dotted line.
I can’t see him going to the Warriors, because he has stated that he doesn’t want to coach a side in competition with Penrith.
I’d think NSW is the top probability. He would not have to move home, for starters.
If Nathan goes to one of the UK clubs to be close to his girl, then maybe Ivan might look at a Super League gig.