Penrith Begins Another Period of Change
The Penrith Panthers are preparing to farewell five players who will move on from the club at the end of the 2026 season, bringing the latest chapter of their time in the famous black, white and teal colours to a close.
Freddy Lussick, Jesse McLean, Liam Henry, Jack Cole and Scott Sorensen are all set to depart Penrith, with the players having secured opportunities with other clubs as they continue their respective rugby league careers.
Lussick and McLean Head to Canterbury
Freddy Lussick and Jesse McLean will both continue their careers with the Canterbury Bulldogs after leaving the Panthers system.
Their departures represent an opportunity for both players to take on new challenges and compete for opportunities in a different environment. Canterbury’s recruitment of the pair adds further depth to its squad as the Bulldogs continue shaping their roster for the seasons ahead.
For Penrith supporters, however, their departures will bring an element of emotion after seeing both players contribute to the Panthers organisation.
Three Players Bound for Perth
Liam Henry, Jack Cole and Scott Sorensen are also preparing for new chapters, with all three players set to join the Perth Bears.
The move represents an exciting development for the players as the Perth-based club prepares to establish itself in the NRL landscape. Their experience within the Panthers organisation could prove valuable as they begin adapting to a new environment and new responsibilities.
For Henry, Cole and Sorensen, the move provides the opportunity to continue their professional careers while becoming part of an important new chapter in Western Australian rugby league.
Sorensen Leaves a Lasting Impression
Among the departing players, Sorensen’s exit will be particularly significant for Panthers supporters. The experienced forward has been an important member of Penrith’s squad and has provided leadership, effort and experience during his time at the club.
His departure marks the end of a memorable period with the Panthers and opens the door for a new phase of his career in Perth.
A Changing Panthers Squad
Player departures are an unavoidable part of professional rugby league, particularly for clubs managing salary-cap pressures, roster development and long-term recruitment plans.
Penrith’s decision-making during the off-season will involve balancing experience with emerging talent while ensuring the squad remains competitive. The departure of five players therefore represents both an emotional farewell and another step in the club’s ongoing roster evolution.
Thank You for the Service
For Panthers supporters, the message to the departing players is straightforward: thank you for your service.
Every player who passes through a club contributes in different ways, whether through performances on the field, training standards, leadership or the relationships developed within the playing group.
The Panthers’ identity has been built over many years by players who have represented the jersey with commitment, and Lussick, McLean, Henry, Cole and Sorensen now become part of that broader history.
Once a Panther, Always a Panther
As the five players prepare to begin new journeys, their time at Penrith will remain part of their careers.
They may soon wear different colours, represent different teammates and face new challenges, but their connection with the Panthers will remain a part of their rugby league story.
For the supporters who watched them develop and compete in Penrith colours, the farewell is an opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and wish them well in the next stage of their careers.
Once a Panther, always a Panther.