The success of the Penrith Panthers in the modern era is the envy of the NRL.
The club at the foot of the mountains will on Sunday compete in its fifth consecutive premiership decider, having won the past three.
But such a dynasty must come to an end, and when it does, Andrew Johns believes it will be a long time before it’s ever matched.
While many of the world’s greatest teams have achieved success through ‘quick fix’ marquee signings, the Panthers have been the architects of their own development.
First created by Phil Gould and current Penrith CEO Matt Cameron, the ‘Project 2015′ document outlines the key to the club’s long-term success.
The document detailed a plan for Penrith’s recruitment and development pathways, with the ultimate goal to be sustained success across all levels.
That several in the Panthers’ starting side on Sunday night, including halves pairing Jarome Luai and Nathan Cleary, are graduates of the program proves its success.
The salary cap of the modern game means St George’s 11 consecutive premierships across the 50s and 60s will never be repeated.
But without it, Johns believes the Panthers would be a chance.
“A team playing their fifth grand final in a row … look at the players they’ve lost over the years. Stephen Crichton, Viliame Kikau, Api Koroisau, Matt Burton, Spencer Leniu, I can keep going.
“The players that have left are now the best players in the competition.
Stephen Crichton (left), Viliame Kikau (left-right), James Fisher-Harris (right-left) and Brian To’o (right) during the Penrith Panthers Grand Final Parade in 2021. (Photo by Brendon Thorne/Gett Getty
“I don’t think we will ever see it again. It’s a credit to everyone in the club, led by Ivan Cleary. Gus did a great job [during his time at the club], the junior system and the junior coaches, right through the club they are all pulling in one direction and it shows.”
Johns revealed he believed Penrith were “no chance” of continuing their reign over the competition following the club’s 2023 premiership triumph, but continues to be amazed by the success of the Panthers spine.
“I thought they were no chance [at the premiership this year], and I thought they were no chance last year, but their key players get it done.
“The foot soldiers around them know their job, it’s very similar to the Melbourne Storm, they’ve go an amazing spine.”
