Penrith, NSW —** The Penrith Panthers are mourning the devastating loss of head coach Ivan Cleary’s wife and child, who tragically died in a plane crash earlier this week. The news has shocked the rugby league community and cast a somber shadow over the club and its supporters.
The crash occurred on [specific date] around [time] as the small aircraft was en route to [destination]. Despite rescue efforts, there were no survivors. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by aviation authorities.
Ivan Cleary’s wife, [Wife’s Name], and their child, [Child’s Name], were both beloved members of the Cleary family. [Wife’s Name] was known for [her/ his/ their] active involvement in the community and [Child’s Name] was a cherished presence at many Panthers events and games.
Ivan Cleary issued a heartfelt statement, expressing his profound grief: “I am beyond devastated by the loss of my wife and child. They were my everything, and their absence leaves a void that words cannot describe. We were looking forward to a future filled with love and joy, and this tragedy has shattered that vision. I am grateful for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the rugby league community during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Penrith Panthers have announced that they will hold a memorial service to honor [Wife’s Name] and [Child’s Name]. Fans and members of the community are invited to come together to pay their respects and celebrate their lives.
The club has also arranged counseling services for players, staff, and supporters to help them cope with the profound loss. The Panthers will be dedicating their upcoming games and events to the memory of Ivan Cleary’s family, as a tribute to their lasting impact.
As the Penrith Panthers navigate this period of mourning, they are united in their support for Ivan Cleary, who has been a central figure in the club’s success and will now be facing one of the most difficult periods of his life.
