The Perth Bears have unveiled an innovative pathways program aimed at identifying and nurturing Western Australia's top young talents.
This new academy is a two-week initiative designed to cultivate athletes aged 14 to 17, ensuring a steady influx of talent to the Bears' roster.
The 'Tracks' Academy will also welcome participants from AFL and Rugby Union backgrounds, encouraging them to transition into the rugby league and contributing to the Bears' emergence as a dominant franchise in the region.
Ian Millward, the Elite Pathways Manager for the Perth Bears, emphasized this moment as a significant milestone for the franchise, hinting at further academies on the horizon.
"It's an historic day for the Perth Bears but also for the entire rugby league community," Millward stated in a media release.
"the objective is to unearth a new generation of players who aspire to play for the Perth Bears.
"I've been blown away by the talent on show and believe the game has a very bright future in Western Australia.
"We will have more Academies in WA, North Sydney and Brisbane Tigers later this year."
Attending the launch at the WA Institute of Sport, Perth Bears chief executive Anthony De Ceglie highlighted the program as a crucial element in shaping a robust future for the club.