In a proud moment for the Cleary family — and a cheeky twist in the sibling rivalry — Jett Cleary has officially claimed his place in the spotlight by winning the #StateChampionship, adding the most prestigious award in the family’s sporting legacy to his name. After years of living in the shadow of his older brother, NRL superstar Nathan Cleary, Jett’s triumph marks not just a personal milestone, but a seismic shift in the Cleary household hierarchy.
The rising rugby league talent showcased maturity, skill, and leadership beyond his years as he steered his team to victory in the fiercely contested state final. Jett’s performance was nothing short of sensational, combining a calm head under pressure with flashes of brilliance reminiscent of his big brother — and arguably, even sharper in some moments.
The win didn’t just earn him the State Championship trophy. It gave him something perhaps even more coveted: top billing in family group chats, holiday dinners, and barbecues. As fans and friends flooded social media with praise, many couldn’t help but jokingly ask the question: “Is Jett now the best Cleary?”
It’s a playful comparison, of course. Nathan Cleary is one of the most decorated players in the modern NRL era, with multiple premierships, State of Origin successes, and a Clive Churchill Medal to his name. But even he might agree that Jett’s championship win — and the way he did it — deserves serious recognition.
Their father, Ivan Cleary, head coach of the Penrith Panthers and a former star player himself, has had a front-row seat to both sons’ journeys. Known for his measured demeanor, even Ivan was seen cracking a proud smile as Jett lifted the trophy, perhaps realizing that his younger son has now firmly stepped out from under the long shadow cast by his older sibling.
While there’s always been good-natured banter between the Cleary boys, Jett’s victory has sparked a fresh wave of it. Nathan reportedly sent a congratulatory message laced with brotherly sarcasm: “Took you long enough.” Still, sources close to the family suggest Nathan is genuinely thrilled — and perhaps a little nervous about the next backyard footy game.
The Cleary family has long been rugby league royalty, and Jett’s emergence signals that their dynasty is far from over. If anything, it may just be entering a thrilling new chapter. While Nathan remains an NRL mainstay and a leader for the Panthers, Jett’s championship-winning performance suggests that he, too, is destined for greatness.
In the end, the real winners are fans of rugby league — and of course, the Cleary family, who now boast not one but two champions. But for now, at least around the dinner table, the title of “most prestigious family award” belongs to Jett.
And as for Nathan? He might just have to win another premiership to catch up.
