PNG Chiefs Aim High, But Cleary Stays Put as New GM Embraces the Challenge
The highly anticipated entry of the Papua New Guinea Chiefs into the NRL competition in 2028 has hit a snag, with their pursuit of four-time premiership-winning coach Ivan Cleary proving unsuccessful. Newly appointed general manager Michael Chammas, a seasoned journalist transitioning into the front office, has spoken candidly about the club’s ambitious targets and his own leap into one of the NRL’s most demanding roles.
Initial speculation had suggested a lucrative package deal, potentially including Cleary’s son Nathan, that would have been impossible for other clubs to match. However, the allure of tax-free incentives and the prospect of spearheading an expansion franchise ultimately couldn’t tempt the highly sought-after Penrith Panthers coach to pack his bags for PNG.
“We did approach Ivan Cleary regarding the coaching position, but unfortunately, Ivan has made it clear that coaching the PNG Chiefs is not part of his future plans, so we respect that and are moving forward,” Chammas stated on SEN. He added that with Cleary coming off contract at the end of 2027, it would have been a dereliction of duty not to explore the possibility. “That decision has been made, and we fully respect Ivan’s decision.”
With Ivan Cleary off the table, the focus now shifts to other potential candidates. Jason Demetriou and Adrian Lam are reportedly the leading contenders for the head coaching role. The NRL faces a critical juncture, as the success of this high-stakes gamble hinges significantly on securing the right coaching appointment.
Chammas, who spent two decades as a prominent figure in rugby league journalism, is now tasked with working alongside these potential candidates on crucial strategic decisions. His move from the press box to the executive suite marks a significant career shift, driven by a deep-seated desire to be more directly involved in the sport he has covered for so long.
His fascination with the inner workings of elite rugby league teams was ignited in 2024 when he had the opportunity to spend time with the Sydney Roosters in Las Vegas. As a guest of coach Trent Robinson and club chairman Nick Politis, Chammas gained an unprecedented glimpse into the club’s operations.
“My initial entry into journalism stemmed from my own passion for playing rugby league, but I recognised I wasn’t going to reach the elite level I aspired to,” Chammas explained. “My primary goal was to remain connected to the game. I’m not a natural wordsmith or a standout academic, so I identified journalism as the most effective avenue to stay involved. That’s how my career path unfolded.”
“For nearly twenty years, I dedicated myself to that profession, but my fascination with rugby league and the desire to be close to the action never waned. In 2024, I was fortunate enough to accompany the Roosters on their journey to Las Vegas. I spent four or five days immersed in the team’s inner circle, a privilege extended by Nick Politis and Trent Robinson. I attended team meetings, travelled on the team bus, and observed training sessions, gaining an intimate understanding of the environment. It was during this period that I realised I wanted to do more than just report on the game; I wanted to be an active participant.”
This burgeoning curiosity spurred him to seek out information from numerous sources. Subsequently, an opportunity arose with the NRL, presented by ARLC chairman Peter V’landys and CEO Andrew Abdo, to contribute to the PNG Chiefs project. Chammas expressed his profound gratitude for this chance.
The question remains whether an individual with a background in journalism can successfully navigate the immense pressures of launching a new franchise in a challenging and unfamiliar environment. However, Chammas is confident in his ability to assemble a capable team to support him and ensure the Chiefs’ success.
“The reality is, I bring two decades of intimate knowledge of the game and its key figures, including players and agents, many of whom have been in touch since my appointment,” he asserted. “This doesn’t imply I possess all the answers, and I’m under no illusion that I have a significant learning curve ahead. However, I believe I have a substantial head start compared to many general managers who enter the role with limited experience in that specific capacity. This advantage comes from understanding the landscape, knowing the people within the game, and having individuals proactively reaching out to me. While this will be beneficial, I also recognise the critical need to surround myself with individuals who possess expertise in areas where my experience is less extensive.”
Chammas concluded by outlining his immediate priorities. “My focus over the coming months will be on identifying and bringing those key people on board to ensure I have the necessary support system in place for success.”
