Nathan Cleary, one of the brightest stars in the National Rugby League (NRL), has had a career filled with milestones, impressive performances, and a deep commitment to the sport.
But behind the accolades and the fame, there’s a side of Cleary that often goes unnoticed: his connection to his late grandmother. In a deeply emotional interview, Cleary broke down in tears as he recounted the significant role his grandmother played in his journey to becoming a professional rugby player.
It is no secret that Cleary’s rise to prominence was not a simple or easy journey.
The NRL is an incredibly competitive field, and the demands on players are intense.
However, the support Cleary received from his family, particularly his grandmother, served as a foundation that helped shape him both as an athlete and a person.
Her influence was pivotal, providing him not only with emotional support but also with life lessons that helped him navigate the difficult moments of his career.
A Pillar of Support
In the interview that left fans and media alike moved, Cleary spoke candidly about the bond he shared with his grandmother. “She was always there for me, no matter what,” he said. “She had this way of making me feel like I could achieve anything.
Even on my hardest days, she would remind me of my potential and how far I could go if I kept pushing.”
Cleary’s grandmother was a constant presence in his life, a figure who would encourage him even when the path seemed uncertain.
It was her unwavering belief in him that motivated him to keep training, to stay committed to his goal of becoming a professional rugby player. “She taught me the importance of persistence and to never give up,” Cleary shared, his voice cracking with emotion.
The lessons his grandmother imparted went beyond just rugby. She taught him about resilience, humility, and the value of hard work.
These are qualities that Cleary has consistently displayed throughout his career, especially in moments of adversity.
Whether it was dealing with the pressure of representing his state in State of Origin or facing the expectations that come with being one of the NRL’s top players, Cleary often leaned on the lessons his grandmother taught him.
Her Inspiring Actions
Cleary shared several anecdotes about the ways his grandmother inspired him, often in subtle yet profound ways.
One story that stood out was how she would always attend his games, no matter the distance or time of day. “She would be there, sitting in the stands, cheering me on,” Cleary recalled. “She wasn’t someone who would shout the loudest, but her presence meant everything to me. It was her way of showing me that she was proud of everything I was doing, no matter the result.”
Even in the most challenging times, his grandmother never wavered in her belief in him.
There were moments in Cleary’s career when things weren’t going well—whether it was due to injury, a losing streak, or personal doubt—and his grandmother’s words always seemed to provide the comfort he needed to keep going. “She’d remind me that setbacks were just a part of the journey,” Cleary explained.
“Her perspective on life was so grounded, so calm, and that helped me see things from a different angle when I was feeling down.”
But it wasn’t just Cleary’s career that she supported. She was a guiding figure in his life outside of rugby as well, teaching him to remain grounded and appreciative of the people around him. “She always told me to stay humble,” Cleary said.
“No matter how much success I achieved, I needed to remember where I came from and the people who helped me get there.”
This mindset has served Cleary well, as he has remained one of the more grounded and approachable stars in the NRL.
Despite his fame and success, he continues to prioritize family, friends, and his community, always carrying the values his grandmother instilled in him.
Her Passing and the Emotional Impact
The loss of his grandmother was a deeply emotional moment for Cleary.
Her passing left a significant void in his life, and the grief was something he struggled with for a long time.
During the interview, he spoke candidly about the impact her death had on him, revealing that it was one of the toughest moments he had ever faced. “Losing her was like losing a part of myself,” Cleary admitted, wiping away tears. “She was always there, and suddenly she wasn’t.
It felt like a piece of my support system was gone.”
However, Cleary also acknowledged that his grandmother’s influence continues to shape his life, even after her passing. “I think about her every day,” he said. “And in those moments when I’m faced with adversity, I can almost hear her voice telling me to push through. I feel like she’s still with me, in a way.”
This ongoing connection to his grandmother has been a source of strength for Cleary, and it has helped him navigate the challenges that come with being in the public eye.
He continues to channel the lessons she taught him, using them to fuel his performances on the field and to guide him in his personal life.
A Legacy of Love and Inspiration
In the world of professional sports, athletes are often seen as larger-than-life figures, admired for their physical prowess and competitive spirit.
But behind every athlete is a story—a journey shaped by the people who supported them, believed in them, and loved them. For Nathan Cleary, that person was his grandmother.
Her legacy lives on in the way Cleary carries himself both on and off the field. Her encouragement, love, and wisdom are not only the foundation of his career but also the driving forces behind the person he has become.
Even as he continues to make his mark in the NRL, Cleary remains deeply connected to the values his grandmother instilled in him.
Her influence is not just a distant memory; it is a living, breathing part of who Nathan Cleary is today. And while her physical presence may no longer be with him, her spirit continues to guide him as he strives to achieve even greater success in his career.
As Cleary reflects on his grandmother’s impact, he is reminded that the journey to becoming a professional athlete is about more than just talent—it’s about the people who help shape you along the way.
For Nathan Cleary, his grandmother was a source of inspiration, love, and strength, and her memory will continue to inspire him for years to come.
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