Jett Cleary is 21 years old, and his name has attracted plenty of attention in rugby league because of his famous family. Born on April 2, 2005, in Auckland, New Zealand, he is the younger brother of Penrith Panthers and Australia halfback Nathan Cleary and the son of former New Zealand Warriors coach Ivan Cleary.
On August 30, 2026, Jett reached a major milestone when he made his long-awaited NRL debut for the New Zealand Warriors against the Newcastle Knights. He impressed immediately, contributing three try assists in the Warriors’ 46-32 victory.
Quick Answer: Jett Cleary is 21 years old. He was born on April 2, 2005, in Auckland, New Zealand. He plays halfback for the New Zealand Warriors and made his NRL debut on August 30, 2026, at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.
He is the younger brother of Nathan Cleary and the son of Ivan Cleary. Jett has also represented Ukraine in international rugby league through his family heritage.
Jett Cleary Age and Early Life
Jett Cleary was born on April 2, 2005, in Auckland. His birth came around the time his father, Ivan Cleary, began working as an assistant coach with the New Zealand Warriors.
Ivan later became the Warriors’ head coach from 2006 to 2011. Jett spent his early years in Auckland before the family eventually moved back to Sydney’s northern beaches.
Growing up in a rugby league family, Jett was introduced to the sport from an early age. He attended St Dominic’s College in Penrith and developed through the Panthers junior system.
He played in the Harold Matthews Cup at under-17 level and the SG Ball Cup at under-19 level, two important pathways for young rugby league players in New South Wales.
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Jett Cleary’s Family: Nathan Cleary and Ivan Cleary
Jett Cleary comes from one of the most recognizable families in Australian rugby league.
His father, Ivan Cleary, has enjoyed a long coaching career and has coached the Penrith Panthers to multiple NRL premierships. His older brother, Nathan Cleary, is one of the leading halfbacks in the NRL and has represented both Australia and New South Wales.
Jett also has two sisters, Milaya and India. His mother is Rebecca.
The family also has strong Ukrainian connections through Jett’s maternal grandmother, Maree. She was born in a camp in Germany after the Nazi invasion during World War II, and that family heritage later became an important part of Jett’s own rugby league career.
Jett Cleary’s Rugby League Career
Despite having a famous surname, Jett Cleary has worked to establish his own career rather than simply following the same path as his father and brother.
In April 2024, the New Zealand Warriors signed Cleary to a three-year contract beginning with the 2025 season. The move also brought him back to Auckland, the city where he was born.
Jett spent his first full season with the Warriors’ NSW Cup team. He helped the side win the 2025 NSW Cup grand final against the Dragons and also came off the bench in the NRL State Championship decider against Burleigh.
During the 2026 NSW Cup season, Cleary continued developing as a playmaker. He recorded six tries and nine try assists, while injuries to Warriors halves Te Maire Martin and Chanel Harris-Tavita eventually created an opportunity for him at NRL level.
Jett Cleary Makes His NRL Debut
Jett Cleary made his NRL debut on August 30, 2026, when the Warriors faced the Newcastle Knights at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.
He started at halfback and partnered Luke Hanson in an inexperienced halves combination. Despite the pressure surrounding his first-grade debut, Cleary remained composed during the physical contest.
He finished the match with three try assists, helping the Warriors secure an impressive 46-32 victory.
His father Ivan and brother Nathan were both in the crowd to watch the milestone moment. The victory also moved the Warriors above the Panthers into first place on the ladder heading into the final round of the regular season.
Jett Cleary and Ukraine Rugby League
Before making his NRL debut, Jett Cleary had already represented a country at international level.
In October 2025, he represented Ukraine at the European Championships through his grandmother’s heritage. He made his international debut against the Netherlands before also playing against Italy and Greece.
Cleary scored a try during Ukraine’s 44-24 victory over Italy and played in the team’s 34-6 win over Greece, a result that secured Ukraine’s promotion to Group B for 2026.
The experience was particularly meaningful for Cleary, who said it ranked among the best experiences of his life. He also expressed hope that Ukraine’s performances would help bring greater funding and support to rugby league in the country.
His brother Nathan and mother Rebecca encouraged him to take the opportunity to represent Ukraine.
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What’s Next for Jett Cleary?
Jett Cleary’s NRL debut could be the beginning of an important new chapter in his career.
After developing patiently in the NSW Cup, he now has valuable first-grade experience with the Warriors. His strong debut performance, combined with his playmaking ability and rugby league background, gives him an opportunity to push for a more regular role.
For now, Cleary appears focused on continuing to improve rather than rushing his development. With his first NRL appearance finally behind him, his own rugby league story is only beginning.
FAQ
How old is Jett Cleary?
Jett Cleary is 21 years old. He was born on April 2, 2005, in Auckland, New Zealand.
Is Jett Cleary related to Nathan Cleary?
Yes. Jett Cleary is the younger brother of Penrith Panthers and Australia halfback Nathan Cleary. Their father, Ivan Cleary, coaches the Panthers.
What position does Jett Cleary play?
Jett Cleary primarily plays halfback. During his junior and development career, he has also filled in at fullback, centre, hooker and in the forwards.
Which NRL club does Jett Cleary play for?
Jett Cleary plays for the New Zealand Warriors. He signed a three-year contract with the club in April 2024.
When did Jett Cleary make his NRL debut?
Jett Cleary made his NRL debut on August 30, 2026, against the Newcastle Knights at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.
Has Jett Cleary played international rugby league?
Yes. Jett Cleary represented Ukraine at the 2025 European Championships through his maternal grandmother’s heritage and helped the team secure promotion.
