The rugby league community has been left shattered by heartbreaking news surrounding the Cleary family, as reports confirm the tragic passing of Jett Cleary, son of Ivan Cleary. In the midst of overwhelming grief, it was revealed that Jett’s final words to his father were a simple yet powerful affirmation: “Dad, I am proud of you.”
Those words, spoken shortly before the devastating incident, have since echoed across the rugby league world, capturing the depth of love and admiration between father and son.
Ivan Cleary, one of the most respected figures in the NRL and head coach of the Penrith Panthers, has built a legacy defined by resilience, leadership, and success. But beyond the trophies and accolades, friends say his proudest achievement has always been his family.
Sources close to the Cleary family describe Jett as a warm-hearted, grounded young man who shared a close bond with his father. Despite growing up in the spotlight of professional rugby league, he remained humble and deeply supportive of his dad’s career.
“Jett admired his father not just as a coach, but as a man,” a family friend shared. “He often spoke about how proud he was of the work his dad had done and the sacrifices he made for his family.”
The tragic passing has sent shockwaves throughout the NRL community. Players, coaches, and fans have flooded social media with tributes, offering condolences and sharing memories of Jett’s kindness and spirit. Several Panthers players are said to have visited the Cleary family privately, standing united in support of their coach during this unimaginable time.
In a brief and emotional statement, the Cleary family thanked supporters for their prayers and asked for privacy as they navigate their grief. “Our hearts are broken,” the statement read. “Jett was our light, our joy, and our constant reminder of what truly matters.”
For Ivan Cleary, the memory of his son’s final words will undoubtedly remain etched in his heart forever. In moments of triumph and in moments of sorrow, those words — “Dad, I am proud of you” — now carry even deeper meaning.
As the rugby league world mourns, the focus remains on honoring Jett’s memory: a young life remembered not just for the tragedy of its loss, but for the love, pride, and strength he shared with those around him.
The Cleary family’s pain is shared by an entire sporting community, united in grief and compassion during one of the darkest chap
ters in their lives.
