DONE DEAL: Luai Jerome Rejoices as Former Penrith Panthers Coach Ivan Cleary Finally Signs New Deal with Wests Tigers to Take Over as Team Head Coach for the 2025 NRL Season
In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the NRL community, Ivan Cleary, the former Penrith Panthers head coach, has officially signed a new deal to become the head coach of the Wests Tigers for the 2025 season. This long-awaited announcement has been met with excitement and anticipation, not just from Tigers fans but also from across the league, as Cleary’s track record speaks for itself. His expertise in building successful, high-performing teams has raised expectations for the Wests Tigers as they prepare for a new era under his leadership.
Cleary, who led the Penrith Panthers to consecutive NRL Premierships in 2021 and 2022, has gained a reputation as one of the best coaches in the competition. His strategic brilliance, deep understanding of the game, and ability to get the best out of his players made him a highly sought-after coach when the Tigers opened discussions with him. After months of speculation and negotiation, Cleary has committed to the Wests Tigers, a move that has now been confirmed with the signing of a multi-year deal.
The announcement was met with jubilation from players and fans alike, including star halfback Jarome Luai, who played under Cleary at Penrith and has been vocal about his admiration for the coach. Luai, known for his dynamic playmaking and fiery presence on the field, expressed his joy over the deal. “I’m stoked for Ivan,” said Luai. “He’s a brilliant coach, and he knows how to bring out the best in his players. If there’s anyone who can turn the Tigers into a force, it’s him. I can’t wait to see the team progress under his leadership.”
Cleary’s arrival at Wests Tigers marks a turning point for the club, which has struggled in recent years to establish a consistent presence in the NRL finals. The Tigers have had their share of ups and downs, but with Cleary now at the helm, there is a renewed sense of optimism and excitement. Known for his patient and methodical approach, Cleary will look to instill a winning culture at the Tigers, focusing on developing both the young talent and the experienced players within the squad.
The Tigers’ management has expressed confidence that Cleary is the right coach to lead the club forward. Wests Tigers CEO, Justin Pascoe, praised the appointment, saying, “Ivan Cleary’s track record speaks for itself. He’s a proven winner and has demonstrated time and again that he can turn teams into championship contenders. We’re thrilled to have him join us, and we believe this is the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Wests Tigers.”
Cleary’s impact on Penrith during his tenure is undeniable. His leadership brought stability to the club, which had previously struggled to capture a Premiership for over two decades. Under his guidance, Penrith became the dominant force in the competition, and Cleary earned immense respect from players, fans, and coaches across the league. His success at Penrith is now the foundation on which he will build his future at Wests Tigers.
While Cleary’s appointment is a significant milestone for the Tigers, there is still much work to be done. The club has undergone several changes in recent years, and Cleary’s first task will be to create a cohesive team dynamic and develop a system that plays to the strengths of his players. His experience with rebuilding teams and creating sustainable success will be invaluable as he looks to elevate the Wests Tigers to new heights.
As the countdown to the 2025 NRL season begins, all eyes will be on Cleary as he prepares to take the reins at Wests Tigers. The road ahead will undoubtedly come with challenges, but with a coach of Ivan Cleary’s caliber at the helm, the future is bright for the Tigers.
The NRL is set to be even more exciting in 2025 with Ivan Cleary’s leadership shaping the Wests Tigers into a team to watch. Fans and players alike can’t wait to see how his vision for the Tigers unfolds.
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