Nathan Cleary’s journey to greatness has been highlighted by former teammate James Maloney, who has offered insights into the qualities that set Cleary apart early in his career. Maloney, a seasoned playmaker himself, revealed that Cleary’s composure, work ethic, and relentless drive for improvement were evident even during his teenage years. These attributes, coupled with his ability to perform under pressure, laid the foundation for his rise to becoming one of the NRL’s premier halfbacks.
Maloney noted Cleary’s maturity beyond his years, an essential trait for steering a team around the park and managing critical moments in games. His willingness to take control, coupled with his exceptional game management and pinpoint kicking accuracy, has made him the backbone of the Penrith Panthers’ dominance in recent years. Maloney also credited Cleary’s dedication to his craft, particularly his tireless efforts in training and his deep understanding of the game, which have continued to elevate his performances season after season.
The Panthers’ sustained success has not only been driven by Cleary’s brilliance but also by the club’s unparalleled development system and winning culture. Their ability to consistently nurture young talent and seamlessly integrate them into a first-grade system has kept them at the pinnacle of the NRL. Maloney believes this system, combined with Cleary’s leadership, positions the Panthers as genuine contenders for an unprecedented five consecutive titles.
A key factor in this potential dynasty is the Panthers’ ability to retain their core group of players while fostering depth through their junior pathways. Stars like Isaah Yeo, Jarome Luai, and Dylan Edwards have complemented Cleary’s playmaking prowess, forming a cohesive unit that thrives on trust and understanding. Additionally, coach Ivan Cleary has cultivated a culture of accountability and excellence, ensuring that no detail is overlooked in their pursuit of success.
Maloney highlighted that the Panthers’ mental toughness, evident in their ability to grind out wins in high-stakes matches, sets them apart from their competitors. With Cleary at the helm, their composure in crucial moments and relentless pursuit of perfection make them formidable opponents.
As the Panthers continue to rewrite history, Cleary’s leadership and the club’s commitment to excellence suggest they could achieve the remarkable feat of five consecutive premierships, solidifying their place as one of the greatest teams in rugby league history.
