The Bears have signed Heath Mason on a 12-month development deal for their first NRL season in 2027.
At 21, the former Wests Tigers player has made 20 NRL appearances across three seasons since his 2024 debut.
The Bowral product is a former Australian Schoolboy and captained St Gregory's College to the 2023 ASSRL Championship.
In 2026, Mason scored 11 tries in 12 NSW Cup matches; most of his six NRL appearances came from the interchange bench.
Mason said: "Being part of the first Bears team is something you only get one shot at," and "I'm very grateful for the opportunity. I'm ready to work hard and earn my spot."
Coach Mal Meninga said Mason's versatility would give him options across the NRL spine.
"Heath is an NRL player on the up, and he's shown at both NRL and NSW Cup level that he can excel in several positions," Meninga said.
Head of football Gareth Holmes backed Mason to do great things for the club in 2027, after he established himself at an early age.