Amid the uproar surrounding the Panthers’ controversial NRL premiership celebrations, many didn’t see or choose not to focus on a beautiful move for a Penrith tragic.
Marco Quintao, who has a duplication of his sixth chromosome and was told he’d never be able to walk or talk, led the Panthers out for their grand final clash with the Eels on Sunday night.
“It’s given him sunshine in his life again,” said his mum Cilene on Sydney’s 9News.
READ MORE: Extent of Cleary’s ‘scary’ health battle revealed
READ MORE: Koroisau cops phone call from Tigers over jibe
READ MORE: Bombers CEO resigns after church controversy
“(Panthers coach) Ivan (Cleary) saw a reason for inclusion and that was (a) demonstration of inclusion at its best.”
Cleary was rapt to make a positive impact on Quintao’s life.
“I think he was a bit depressed. He wasn’t doing anything (and) had lost a bit of purpose,” Cleary said.
“One, we love hanging out with him, and two, just to see him get that purpose back (was great).
“His family was so happy.
“It doesn’t get much better.”
When asked by 9News’ Danny Weidler what he thought of the Penrith coach, Quintao said: “Cleary is my hero”.
“I don’t know how to describe my feelings to that,” Cleary said in response.
“Just amazing.”
Panthers player ignites ‘we hate Parra’ chant
Cleary defended his squad’s polarising antics, which included James Fisher-Harris bragging that this Panthers side was “the greatest Penrith team ever”.
Another incident saw Apisai Koroisau, who’s headed for Wests Tigers, burst into laughter while talking about the prospect of his new club winning a title.
“Part of it’s just because we’re winning,” Cleary said of the outrage.
“Our guys probably do things a little differently sometimes. They’re letting their hair down a little bit.
“I think all of us can understand that if you maybe drink a little too much sometimes you might say some things that you might like back … I’m not too worried about that.
“But I also get that it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. You can’t please everybody.”
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
Rugby League World Cup stars who could have chosen Australia: The XVII that got away
