The Phone Call That Sparked an NRL Dynasty: Ivan Cleary's Shocking Career Twist

Ivan Cleary, the current head coach of the Penrith Panthers, has reflected on the pivotal moment that set him on the path to becoming one of the most successful coaches in the NRL. In a recent interview, Cleary revealed that it was a phone call that changed everything – a call that led him to abandon a lucrative contract in the Super League and a potential career in real estate.

According to Cleary, the decision to back out of the contract was not an easy one. He had been playing in the Super League for several years and had established himself as a top-notch player. However, despite his success on the field, Cleary felt unfulfilled and restless. He began to question his future in the sport and started exploring other career options.

One of those options was a career in real estate. Cleary had always been interested in property and had even dabbled in it during his playing days. He saw it as a way to leverage his business skills and build a new career outside of rugby league. However, as he delved deeper into the world of real estate, Cleary realized that it wasn't for him.

It was during this period of uncertainty that Cleary received a call from a friend who was involved in coaching. The friend asked Cleary if he would be interested in helping out with a local junior team. Cleary, who had always been passionate about coaching, agreed to take on the role.

The experience was a revelation for Cleary. He discovered a new passion for coaching and a sense of purpose that he had been missing. He quickly realized that coaching was not just about teaching players new skills, but about developing them as people and helping them reach their full potential.

Cleary's coaching career took off from there. He began working his way up the ranks, coaching junior teams and eventually landing a job as an assistant coach in the NRL. His big break came when he was appointed as the head coach of the Warriors in 2006.

Since then, Cleary has gone on to become one of the most successful coaches in the NRL. He has led the Panthers to multiple premierships and has been recognized for his innovative approach to the game. However, despite all his success, Cleary has never forgotten the phone call that started it all – the call that led him to abandon his contract in the Super League and pursue a career in coaching.