Australia’s head coach and rugby league legend Mal Meninga has been officially appointed as the inaugural head coach of the Perth Bears. The 64-year-old has signed a three-year deal with the new franchise, potentially extending his tenure until the age of 69 by 2030.
Meninga has a storied history, leading the international team for the past eight years and securing World Cup victories in 2017 and 2022. However, this new role means he will not be at the helm during this Autumn’s Ashes series in England. Other notable candidates for the position included Brad Arthur from Leeds Rhinos and Sam Burgess of Warrington Wolves.
This marks Meninga’s return to club rugby for the first time since 2001, leaving fans curious as to who will take over the Kangaroos coaching role.
With an impressive coaching resume that includes stints with Canberra and Queensland, Meninga has established himself as one of the most successful figures in rugby league history. Under his guidance, the Queensland Maroons enjoyed their most dominant era, winning nine out of ten series.
Expressing his excitement for the role, Meninga stated, "This new pioneering venture in Western Australia and the opportunity to grow a club like the Perth Bears is too good to refuse. I feel very honored and aware of the responsibility."
The sport’s premier competition, which began in Sydney, has expanded significantly, now featuring teams from New Zealand and throughout Australia. The Perth Bears will soon join the ranks of the NRL, paving the way for a 19-team competition by 2028 with the anticipated addition of a team from Papua New Guinea.
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The Super League season pauses for the Betfred Challenge Cup finals, where Warrington Wolves will face Hull KR at Wembley Stadium on Saturday. The action kicks off at 3 PM, following the women’s Challenge Cup final between St Helens and Wigan Warriors at 11:45 AM.
Week 14 of the Super League will resume on Friday, June 13, with Hull KR hosting Catalans Dragons and Hull FC taking on Castleford Tigers, both matches set for an 8 PM start.
