Mal Meninga named inaugural coach of Perth Bears, preparing for the NRL franchise launch in 2027.
The Perth Bears have locked in their most important piece with rugby league Immortal Mal Meninga confirmed as the inaugural coach of the NRL's newest franchise.
Meninga has had to vacate his role as Kangaroos coach and will officially start his new job on July 1 as he prepares to build a roster for when the Bears enter the competition in 2027.
The Raiders legend oversaw the greatest Maroons side of all time and has enjoyed World Cup success with Australia, but this will be his first time back in club land since he left Canberra in 2001.