LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Penrith Panthers, who triumphed in the NRL grand final, are facing the harsh reality that their champion team will soon be disbanded, like a well-oiled machine being taken apart piece by piece.
The mixture of jubilation and sorrow is palpable among the players, knowing that they will not be able to hit the field together again.
Jarome Luai, a key player in the Panthers' success, is the latest to bid farewell with a heavy heart, as he prepares to join the Wests Tigers.
His departure is especially poignant for coach Ivan Cleary, who has watched him grow and evolve both on and off the field, forming a formidable partnership with his own son, Nathan Cleary.
The team is being forced to make tough decisions due to salary cap constraints, leading to the departure of stars like Stephen Crichton and Viliame Kikau, in addition to Luai, James Fisher-Harris, and Sunia Turuva.
For Cleary, losing Luai is particularly difficult, as he had hoped to keep the talented player within the Panthers' ranks.
Reflecting on Luai's journey, Cleary spoke fondly of the player's infectious personality and his unwavering dedication to the team.
Despite facing challenges, Luai rose to the occasion when Nathan Cleary was sidelined, proving himself not just as a top-notch player but as a commendable individual.
As the Panthers prepare to bid farewell to some of their star players, the team's future may be uncertain, but their legacy as grand final champions will forever be etched in Rugby League history.