DONE DEAL: Penrith Panthers Superstar Nathan Clearly Announces Groundbreaking Partnership That Will Forever Transform the Future of Rugby Community and.. 

In a historic moment that has captured the attention of the sporting world, Penrith Panthers superstar and NRL icon Nathan Cleary has officially announced a groundbreaking partnership initiative that aims to redefine the future of rugby, champion equality, and empower communities across Australia and beyond.

Standing before a sea of media, teammates, and fans at BlueBet Stadium, Cleary delivered an emotional and inspiring address outlining his vision for a transformational movement designed to open doors for young athletes from all backgrounds — a project that promises to reshape how the game of rugby league connects with the next generation.

“Rugby league has given me everything — the lessons, the opportunities, the sense of belonging,” Cleary said passionately. “Now it’s time to give something back — to create a pathway where every young person, no matter their story, has a fair shot to chase their dreams both on and off the field.”

The initiative, titled “Level the Field: The Future of Rugby,” represents a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the NRL, community sports foundations, Indigenous leaders, youth development programs, and major sponsors. Its mission is clear — to promote accessibility, gender equality, mental health awareness, and educational support within the rugby community.

Through “Level the Field,” Cleary and his partners plan to establish free youth training academies in underserved regions, fund school-based rugby programs, provide mentorship from professional athletes, and build inclusive community facilities. The partnership will also prioritize opportunities for women’s rugby development, ensuring that future generations of female athletes receive equal access, visibility, and support.

NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo praised the announcement, calling it “a defining moment for the sport and a testament to Nathan’s leadership both on and off the field.” He continued, “Nathan’s vision extends beyond trophies — it’s about shaping the game’s future to be more inclusive, compassionate, and connected.”

Teammates and coaches echoed similar sentiments. Panthers Head Coach Ivan Cleary expressed immense pride in his son’s efforts, saying, “Nathan’s always been about more than just winning — he’s about making a difference. What he’s doing today will inspire thousands of kids who thought rugby wasn’t for them.”

Social media immediately erupted in support, with fans, celebrities, and athletes rallying behind the #LevelTheField movement. Messages of encouragement poured in from across the rugby world, hailing Cleary as a trailblazer for equality and social progress.

The initiative also includes a strong focus on mental health and resilience, a subject Cleary spoke about with sincerity:

“We talk a lot about toughness in rugby — but real strength is asking for help when you need it, supporting your mates, and lifting others up. That’s the kind of toughness I want to see in our next generation.”

As the news spread, the Penrith Panthers organization confirmed that they will fully support Cleary’s project, pledging resources and platforms to ensure its success both locally and internationally.

Cleary closed his announcement with a message that perfectly captured the spirit of the movement:

“This game belongs to everyone — no matter who you are, where you’re from, or what challenges you face. If we can level the field, we can change lives.”

With this bold initiative, Nathan Cleary is not just continuing his legacy as one of the greatest players of his generation — he’s cementing his place as a leader, humanitarian, and visionary dedicated to transforming rugby league into a force for equality, unity, and hope.