Proper Grand Final build-up has Panthers feeling brand new

Autographs, fan selfies and a grand final build-up like no other. 

The Panthers may have experienced two deciders in recent years but getting back into the local community and dealing with a proper grand final week has given the players a new perspective ahead of possible back-to-back premierships.

Around 6,500 fans turned up to Penrith's BlueBet Stadium on Tuesday for an open training session ahead of Sunday's Battle of the West decider.

The school holiday period was taken advantage of by the Penrith faithful for the first time in three years after the COVID-19 pandemic forced border restrictions and lockdowns previously.

In 2020, the Panthers were in a bubble ahead of their grand final against Melbourne with players shielded from most fan and media duties that year before playing in front of just a 50% capacity at Accor Stadium.

There were no fan interactions or events in the lead-up to the match while the Dally M awards were filmed behind closed doors. 

In 2021, the Panthers secured their first NRL title since 2003 when they beat Rabbitohs at Suncorp Stadium after the competition shifted north to Queensland.

That experience was one like no other and while players and fans were able to interact more, those in western Sydney couldn't lap up the celebrations until November when players were in a position to return to the state.

"Ivan [Cleary] addressed that the other day, he said to embrace it, there’s plenty of things going on but try and find little moments to switch off," Panthers back-rower Liam Martin said on Tuesday.

"It shows how important footy is to the community. You walk down the street and everyone’s got a Panthers jersey on. There’s a buzz about the town."

Departing hooker Api Koroisau is grateful that the players have been able to get back to a normal grand final build-up and for himself, be in a position to possibly farewell fans with another title.

"I remember in 2014 it was quite hectic, the week was really busy," Koroisau said.

"It's awesome to bring it back to Penrith, go and see all the fans and be able to sign autographs and get photos. 

"There wasn't too much fan interaction [previously] but just to be able to give back with a field session like that. We hope we can make the week as special for everyone else as it is for us.

[I've got] zero emotion whatsoever about leaving, but I think it just hasn't hit me yet."

The Panthers will ramp up preparations in the coming days before a final training run on Saturday at the Olympic venue.