A Journey of Resilience and Team Spirit
Izack Tago, a three-time premiership-winning centre for the Penrith Panthers, has always believed in the importance of resilience and team-first mentality. His journey through personal tragedy and professional challenges highlights his commitment to both his family and the team.
The death of Tago’s grandfather and biggest fan, Greg, was a significant blow to the 24-year-old before the start of the 2026 season. “He was probably the main father figure in my life. It was a hard time,” Tago told AAP. This loss came at a critical moment as the Panthers were preparing to bounce back from their preliminary final defeat the previous year.
Instead of forcing himself into the lineup, Tago and the Panthers agreed that it would be best for him to take some time away from football to be with his family. “It was probably good for me to have a break from footy at the time, even though it was the start of the year. My mind was in another place,” he said. “The boys were probably better prepared than I was. It was best for the team.”
This decision allowed Tom Jenkins to step into the backline for round one, where he shone in Penrith’s big defeat of the reigning premiers, Brisbane. Jenkins quickly became a standout player, leading the season’s tryscoring leaderboard in career-best form. Meanwhile, the centre pairing of Paul Alamoti and Casey McLean impressed as Penrith won their first five games of the season.
Despite his personal loss, Tago faced another challenge when he was blocked from returning to first grade and consigned to the NSW Cup for the first time since 2021. However, he maintained a team-first attitude. “I came through the whole system as a Panthers junior and that’s something we value,” Tago said. “I wouldn’t be much of a Panther or a teammate if I wasn’t having that mindset. I just didn’t want to be kicking stones, I tried to prepare the boys as best as I could in whatever role I was doing at training.”
By round seven, coach Ivan Cleary recognized the need to find a spot for Tago in the team. Tago had almost exclusively started at centre since the beginning of 2022 but had come off the bench for minutes at second row the past three weeks. “He’s just too good a player. I’ve got to find a spot for him, that’s the way we’re thinking. It’s going well so far,” Cleary said.
Tago made a significant impact in Sunday night’s 18-16 defeat of Manly, scoring the match-winning try. He grabbed a short ball from Dylan Edwards and streaked away down the right edge. “It’s a good feeling after a few weeks out, it’s good to be back,” he said.
With McLean and Alamoti still shining in the backline, Tago is more than happy to continue his role as a pinch hitter from the bench. “If that’s what’s best for the team … then I’ll be more than happy to play that and keep growing in that role,” he said.
Key Moments and Achievements
- Personal Tragedy: The death of Tago’s grandfather, Greg, affected him deeply before the 2026 season.
- Team Decision: Tago took time off to be with family, allowing Tom Jenkins to step into the backline.
- Jenkins’ Performance: Jenkins starred in Penrith’s victory over Brisbane, leading the tryscoring leaderboard.
- Alamoti and McLean: The centre pairing impressed as Penrith won their first five games.
- NSW Cup Assignment: Tago was sent to the NSW Cup, maintaining a team-first attitude.
- Coach’s Recognition: Ivan Cleary found a spot for Tago in the team, acknowledging his talent.
- Match-Winning Try: Tago scored the crucial try in the win against Manly, highlighting his return to form.
- Future Role: Tago is content with his role as a pinch hitter, focusing on team success.
