In a candid and heartfelt reflection, **Ivan Cleary has shared a personal story about the early days of his relationship with his wife, Rebecca Cleary โ revealing that their first meeting didnโt unfold the way many might expect.
Speaking openly, the **Penrith Panthers** head coach admitted that at the time they met, his focus was entirely on football.
โWhen I first met Rebecca, Iโll admit โ she wasnโt what I had imagined. I had my head completely wrapped up in footy, and I wasnโt looking for anything else,โ Cleary shared.
Cleary explained that during that period of his life, his priorities were firmly centered on his coaching ambitions and the pressures that come with elite rugby league. Relationships were not front of mind.
But Rebecca, he says, immediately stood out.
โShe was different. She had this spark about her. She was confident, energetic, and had no problem speaking her mind. At the time, I wasnโt sure how to take it.โ
What initially caught him off guard soon became one of the qualities he admired most. Cleary described how Rebeccaโs strength of character and authenticity challenged him in ways he hadnโt expected โ pushing him to grow beyond the tunnel vision of professional sport.
Over time, what began as uncertainty developed into deep respect and partnership. Friends close to the couple often point to Rebeccaโs steady support as a quiet but powerful influence throughout Clearyโs coaching journey, including premiership triumphs and high-pressure seasons in the NRL.
While Cleary is widely known for his calm demeanor on the sidelines and tactical brilliance, this rare glimpse into his personal life highlights another side โ one shaped by love, humility, and growth.
The story serves as a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of professional sport, the most meaningful victories often happen
away from the field.
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