LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NRL has appointed Anthony De Ceglie, a former editor-in-chief of The West Australian, as the inaugural CEO of the Perth Bears.
This significant move comes as Perth's media landscape poses challenges for the NRL, primarily due to the city's strong AFL presence.
Announced by the head office on Thursday, De Ceglie will take on his role even before the establishment of a board for the new club.
His immediate responsibilities include assembling the team's structure and finding a coach ahead of their entry into the league in 2027.
De Ceglie's credentials are noteworthy; he recently served as the director of news and current affairs at Seven West Media, having been promoted after his tenure at the flagship newspaper of Western Australia.
Importantly, Channel 7 holds the broadcasting rights for the AFL, while its competitor Channel 9 manages the NRL rights, setting a competitive backdrop for De Ceglie's new role.
The NRL's recognition of the need for strategic media engagement in Perth indicates the challenges ahead as they seek to establish the Perth Bears in a city where AFL reigns supreme.