Perth Bears Welcomes Wallabies Legend for Recruitment Boost

David Campese, a celebrated figure in Australian rugby, has joined the recruitment team of the Perth Bears, the newest franchise in the NRL.

This strategic move aims to tap into South Africa's abundant rugby talent as the Bears lay the groundwork for future success.

The initiative is part of a comprehensive five-year plan reflecting the changing dynamics of sports in New Zealand, where rugby league's popularity is surging as rugby union participation declines.

The Bears are eager to discover athletes capable of transitioning successfully between rugby codes, ultimately nurturing them into NRL-level players.

The vision is further supported by ARLC chairman Peter V'landys, who shares aspirations for expanding rugby league's international presence that gels well with the Bears' South African strategy.

"South Africa has always had big, skilful rugby players. I have always believed you could procure a couple of their marquee players who would adapt to rugby league," V'landys noted.

"It not only brings new exciting talent and a new dimension into the game, but also a new market in South Africa, as South African Rugby fans will follow their journey."

Anthony De Ceglie, CEO of the Perth Bears, highlighted the unique potential that South Africa presents for establishing a sustainable talent pipeline.

"South Africa consistently generates more professional-calibre rugby players than its domestic franchises can fill, and Perth is uniquely positioned to capitalise on this with direct travel alongside an already well-established South African community in Perth," he stated.

"the South Africa strategy, which is still before the ARLC, is being run by the elite pathways manager Ian Millward and recruitment manager Dane Campbell with oversight, of course, by head coach Mal Meninga. We're all really excited about the experience and expertise that a legend like David Campese can bring to the strategy."