The rain didn’t stop the Penrith Panthers from coming down to Chittick Oval today as part of their latest training camp in Kiama. 

To the delight of fans, the team walked off the bus and onto the field singing to the Beatles’ Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da.

A crowd of fans wearing their Panthers jerseys swarmed to the captain of the team, Nathan Cleary, for photos and signatures then pulled out their umbrellas and rain coats to stay and watch the team train.

Head coach, Ivan Cleary, says they are regulars to the town because it gives the team a chance to get away from Sydney.

“Kiama is probably the most beautiful town in NSW. It’s a beautiful location right next to the beach and it’s a good time to switch off from the crazy world of Sydney and come down here,” he says.

Next week (23 March) will see Panthers go head to head with their rivals, the Parramatta Eels.

“There are a few bits and pieces we need to work on today because they [Eels] did beat us a few times last year. In saying that, today’s training is more looking forward to the whole year,” Mr Cleary says.

The Panthers are currently on a winning streak, taking out the Grand Final in 2021 and 2022, the last time against the Eels.

Mr Cleary says you can’t look too far ahead as it is a long season, and they’re not putting any crazy expectations on themselves, but they would love to win it again.

Diehard fans don't mind a bit of rain

With a loss to the Broncos in Round 1 and a win against the Rabbitohs in Round 2, the Panthers sit 5th on the ladder.

After foot injuries saw Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai limp off the field in their last game, the pair were both at training today and Mr Clearly confirmed they will be playing next week.

The team will return to Chittick Oval again on Thursday morning (16 March) for another training session.