As Nathan Cleary prepares for his first NRL grand final, coach Ivan has every faith his son can invoke an ‘ice-man’ spirit to deliver Penrith a premiership in his 100th game.

Ivan sat stony-faced at the grand final press conference at ANZ Stadium on Thursday but he spoke of Nathan’s tenacity to chase a dream he’s had since he could walk.

An NRL premiership.

Across 99 games Nathan has become the on-field leader for the Panthers with his steely focus playing into the ‘ice-man’ persona.

But more than his calm attitude – it’s his ability to ice a game that plays into the moniker.

“He’s shown that he’s pretty consistent. He had his first semi-final as an 18-year-old, had semi series’ and played Origins so I don’t think the big stage will worry him,” Ivan said of his son.

“He’s been really consistent his year, the difference between every game he’s played has been very little.

“I know he’s been looking forward to this game since he could walk so I think he’ll be up for it.”

Fitting then, that on Sunday his father should present him with his 100th game jersey before the grand final against Melbourne at ANZ Stadium.

“It’s weird how it works out, that’s going to be special,” Ivan said.

“The main thing again is we focus on what’s going to deliver us the best performance.”

If Nathan is the ice man, Ivan is Mr Freeze.

Should the Panthers win on Sunday they will be the second father-and-son combination to win a premiership.

And although he admits it would be a dream come true, Ivan won’t allow himself even a moment of appreciation for how far they have come together.

“Not really, I’m constantly telling players to stay in the moment so I have to do that myself,” he said.

“I’ve got up every day dreaming of winning a competition for the last 30 years so I don’t have to think too much about that any more.

“I’m more concerned with how we’re going to play this week.”