The Perth Bears have locked in experienced forward Morgan Smithies on a three-year deal with an option for two more seasons as he becomes the latest Englishman to sign with the new franchise.
The club has called it the “Blitz of Britain”, with Smithies joining fellow English internationals Harry Newman, James McDonnell and Mikolaj Oledzki as part of its inaugural squad.
Smithies, 25, spent five seasons in the Super League before he moved to Canberra in 2024 where he’s been a key cog in their middle forward rotation.
But he’ll head west at the end of the year to beef up Perth’s forward pack.
“The opportunity to make history and be a part of the Perth Bears was too good to refuse,” Smithies said.
“It will be great to reconnect with a few of the lads from back home in Perth. Mal and his staff have assembled a very strong roster and it’s an honour to be a part of it.
“This is a new chapter for my family as well. We are committed to the Perth Bears and it’s an exciting opportunity to build our life in Western Australia.”
Bears coach Mal Meninga is excited to have Smithies on board for at least the next three years, with the club to unveil its inaugural home jersey on Friday ahead of the Storm’s game against Manly in Perth the following day.
“Morgan is a fantastic person who has succeeded at just about every level of the game,” he said.
“He’s only 25 years old and has played nearly 200 games across Super League and the NRL.
“He brings big-game experience, a fantastic work ethic and, most important of all, is a selfless teammate.
“I’m delighted Morgan and his family believe in what we are creating in Perth and I have no doubt he will be a big part of this club for many years to come.”
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