In a moment that has sent shockwaves of joy through the Valley and the wider National Rugby League community, Ivan Cleary has officially confirmed that club legend Royce Simmons is returning to the Penrith Panthers — this time in a key off-field leadership role.
Cleary made the announcement earlier today, revealing that Simmons will rejoin the Panthers as the club’s new Football Operations and Culture Advisor, marking a powerful homecoming for one of Penrith’s most respected figures.
“This club is built on legacy, resilience, and community,” Cleary said. “Royce embodies all of that. Having him back in the building strengthens who we are — not just as a team, but as a family.”
Simmons, who played his entire first-grade career with Penrith and later coached the club, remains one of the most beloved figures in Panthers history. Known for his toughness, loyalty, and leadership during some of the club’s formative years, his return is being hailed as both symbolic and strategic.
In his new role, Simmons is expected to mentor emerging players, support high-performance programs, and help preserve the club’s cultural identity as it continues to compete at the top of the NRL.
Speaking about his return, Simmons said he felt “honored and humbled” to be back where it all began.
“Penrith has always been home,” he said. “To come back and help guide the next generation means everything to me. The Panthers have achieved incredible success in recent years, and I’m proud to play a part in what comes next.”
Fans quickly took to social media to celebrate the news, calling it “the missing piece” and “a full-circle moment” for the club.
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