The Perth Bears have officially begun building their squad for their historic entry into the National Rugby League, with coach Mal Meninga confirming the club's first two signings. The expansion franchise, set to debut in the 2027 season, announced on Tuesday that playmaker Toby Sexton and English international centre Harry Newman will be its inaugural players.
Meninga's Maiden Signings Set the Standard
In a major step towards becoming the NRL's 18th team, the Perth Bears have secured the signatures of two key figures. Toby Sexton is the frontrunner to be the club's first halfback, while Harry Newman will make the high-profile switch from the Leeds Rhinos to bolster the Bears' backline. Coach Mal Meninga expressed his confidence that both men possess the right qualities to be trailblazers for rugby league in Western Australia.
"Both players have all the attributes and qualities I'm looking for when building out our roster," Meninga stated. He praised Sexton as a proven leader who elevates his teammates and described Newman as a Test-calibre player ready to make an immediate impact in the NRL.
Player Profiles and Ambitions
Toby Sexton, who will see out the 2026 season with Catalans Dragons following his departure from Canterbury, expressed his thrill at the opportunity. "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the inaugural Perth Bears roster," Sexton said. "To be one of the Bears' first signings is something I'm grateful for."
Harry Newman brings significant experience, having scored 46 tries in 129 games for Leeds since his debut as a 17-year-old in 2017 and earning seven caps for England. "It's always been my ambition to test myself in the NRL," Newman remarked, calling it a huge honour to help create a legacy for the sport in WA.
Recruitment Drive and Missed Targets
The Bears' recruitment team is actively shaping their squad for 2027, with several other players on their radar. Melbourne Storm utility Tyran Wishart is expected to meet with the club, while South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Keaon Koloamatangi has also attracted their interest. A major priority target remains Gold Coast Titans and Queensland Maroons captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui.
However, the club has faced some setbacks in the player market. They missed out on securing Gold Coast duo Jayden Campbell and Beau Fermor, while other potential targets like Herbie Farnworth, Harry Grant, and Josh Addo-Carr are no longer available. The future of Melbourne Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, who was released in October to consider his sporting future, remains a potential option following the abandonment of the proposed R360 competition in 2026.
The signings of Sexton and Newman mark a concrete and exciting beginning for the Perth Bears project, setting the foundation for what promises to be a transformative addition to the NRL landscape in 2027.
