The Perth Bears have yet to solidify their inaugural squad, and they’ve already lost their football general manager with David Sharpe’s exit from the club.
The new NRL franchise chose to make this announcement during Thursday’s NRL match featuring the Raiders and Tigers.
“I have made the decision to depart from the Perth Bears for a new opportunity,” Sharpe expressed in a statement released by the club.
“It has been a privilege to be part of establishing the club, particularly within the football department and the Bear Tracks academy. This decision was not easy, but the football department is now firmly established. Western Australia presents a unique and crucial opportunity for rugby league to evolve into a truly national sport. I will be cheering alongside all the supporters when the Perth Bears take to the field in round one next year.”
Just two weeks prior, The Australian reported that Sharpe had experienced tensions with club staff, stemming from his recruitment by coach Mal Meninga.
Mal Meninga. Nine
“Everything’s running smoothly. We had a board meeting just this morning, and it wasn’t even mentioned,” he told reporters.
“I’m unsure how this became public or why. Perhaps given the double header is in Perth, there’s an inclination to find some negative aspect associated with it.
“Consider the turmoil other teams have faced like the Dragons, Broncos, and Manly. It seems to be our turn since we’ve got a double header happening here.”
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Meninga was also asked about Sharpe’s job security, to which he responded: “as far as I’m aware.”
Perth Bears CEO Anthony De Ceglie, reported by The Australian to be one of those at odds with Sharpe, extended his best wishes to the departing general manager.
“During David’s time at the Perth Bears, he successfully established the football department, developed our team values and strategies, recruited 16 outstanding players (with more in the pipeline), and initiated the Bear Tracks academy, laying a solid foundation for future success. We wish David all the best moving forward,” he stated in a release on behalf of the club.
Chairman Ben Morton affirmed that the club respects Sharpe’s decision to move on.
“David has dedicated considerable effort to building a robust team and football department,” he said.
“His contributions will be felt as the team prepares to take the field in 2027. We’re immensely grateful for David’s unwavering commitment to the establishment of our team.
“After leading Sports Integrity Australia, David joined the Perth Bears with a proven track record of successfully establishing new organisations and teams. We are confident that he will excel in his future endeavours. I eagerly await welcoming David back to witness the Perth Bears’ debut on the field for our first game in 2027.”
Compiled by SportArena.au
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