Panthers Inducts Legends

Author: Panthers Media
Timestamp: Thu 12 Feb 2026, 08:00 PM

Panthers ushers in a new and historic chapter with the elevation of eight individuals as Panthers Legends, an honour that evolves from the esteemed ‘Team of Legends’.

For the first time in our club’s history, this accolade extends beyond the playing field to recognise administrators and coaches. This milestone acknowledges that greatness is not forged by players alone, but by the leaders, visionaries and mentors who stand behind them.

This rare distinction is reserved for those whose contribution to the Panthers meets the highest standard of achievement, influence and service - individuals whose impact has shaped the very fabric of the club.

From this year forward, one new Panther will be inducted as a Legend annually, ensuring each honouree receives the reverence, prominence and enduring recognition their legacy deserves.

This evolution is more than a reflection on our past; it is a declaration of who we are. It is about protecting our legacy, honouring those who built it, and ensuring their greatness inspires generations to come.

2026 Panthers Legends Inductees:

Administrators:

Merv Cartwright
Roger Cowan OAM
John Farragher OAM

Players:

Steve Carter
Luke Lewis
Luke Priddis
Luke Rooney
Trent Waterhouse

Administrators:

Merv Cartwright

1955-1998: Secretary; CEO; Director
1967: Oversaw Penrith joining the Sydney First Grade League competition

Merv Cartwright was a founding force behind the Panthers, a visionary whose foresight, determination and deep love for Penrith ensured the club’s admission to the NSWRFL premiership in 1967.

A proud son of the Penrith district, Merv combined unwavering commitment with tireless leadership. Serving as Secretary, CEO and Director of the Penrith club, he laid the cornerstone for generations to follow.

His legacy became woven into the fabric of the club itself. His four sons, David, Michael, Cliff and John, each went on to play and coach within the Panthers and the wider Penrith district, cementing the Cartwright name as one of the most enduring and influential in the club’s history.

Roger Cowan OAM

Penrith Player 1958 – 1963 (pre-1967 elevation to First Division). Wing & Centre.
1963 – 64 Honorary treasurer of the Football Committee
1965 – 2005: Chief Executive Officer
1967: Oversaw Penrith joining the Sydney First Grade League competition
Life Member of Panthers
Longest serving leader in club history
Built Leagues Club to one of the state’s leading Leagues Clubs

Across decades, Cowan’s vision and leadership repeatedly saved and reshaped the Panthers, laying the foundation for its long-term success.

From uncovering financial mismanagement in 1964 and stabilising the club, to helping secure First Division entry in 1966 and driving the transformative Mulgoa Road development, he positioned Panthers as the league’s wealthiest and most successful club.

He later unified the football and licensed clubs, championed junior development that led to the club’s first premiership success, and steered Penrith strategically through the Super League war.

John Farragher OAM

7 games for the Panthers
40+ years of service to club
Award named in his honour
Board member (2022-2025)

John Farragher, Panther No. 149, endured a life-altering spinal injury during a match at just 21 years of age, leaving him a quadriplegic. Yet in the face of unimaginable adversity, his courage defined him far more than the injury ever could.

For more than four decades, John continued to serve the Panthers with unwavering dedication through his work at Penrith Leagues Club, later becoming a valued member of the Panthers Group Board of Directors until his passing in 2025. His presence, wisdom and quiet strength inspired generations across the club.

In 1979, the club established the John Farragher Award for Courage and Determination in his honour, an annual tribute to the player who best exemplifies bravery, resilience and inner strength. His legacy remains one of the most powerful and enduring in Panthers history.