Ivan Cleary's tenure at Penrith has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it will be remembered for its unique achievements.
For an extended period, the Panthers have been setting records, becoming a team that will be revered for generations within the rugby league community.
Their drive for success has led them to an impressive four consecutive premierships, with the possibility of clinching a fifth title looming over the 2026 season.
The core of their greatness lies in their relentless pursuit of victory; they are never satisfied, regardless of the changing roster or team identity.
This level of achievement is what every coach dreams of, an honor many would cling to indefinitely if given the opportunity.
What Cleary possesses is the coveted success that most NRL coaches aspire to, transforming his western domain into a coaching ideal.
Thus, Cleary's choice to depart from NRL coaching post-2027 becomes more intriguing; such a departure is unprecedented for a coach with his track record.
The closest parallel is Jack Gibson's exit from Parramatta after securing three titles from 1981 to 1983, yet the Eels were forewarned, given Gibson's history of short tenures.
While no other coach has achieved the remarkable feat of four consecutive premierships in the current era, Cleary stands alone for deciding to step away from coaching while more victories remain within reach.