The newest entry in Australia’s often scandal-plagued sport of rugby league is putting integrity at the heart the organisation.
The Perth Bears Rugby League Club has appointed former Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner David Sharpe as its inaugural General Manager of Football.
Perth Bears chief executive officer Anthony De Ceglie said Mr Sharpe had nearly four decades of experience across law enforcement and sports integrity and was recognised globally as an authority in both fields.
Mr De Ceglie said his career with the Australian Federal Police saw him rise to the rank of Assistant Commissioner, where he led initiatives like the Mental Health Strategy Framework.
“(He) is a visionary and transformative leader who will help ensure the club’s foundations are built on the highest of values from the very start.
“His deep-rooted passion for rugby league, reflected in his past as a player and coach with the Canberra Raiders and recent role as a culture and welfare officer with the Australian national rugby league team, complements his extensive leadership roles in sport.”
Mr De Ceglie said as CEO of Sport Integrity Australia and previously ASADA (Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority), Mr Sharpe pioneered a new National Integrity Framework that set a global standard for safeguarding integrity across sports.
He said his efforts extended beyond Australia, where he had been instrumental in promoting athlete rights, developing award-winning educational programs, and advocating for gender equality within sports leadership positions.
“David’s background is unique in Australian sport and we’re thrilled his expertise across sports integrity, cultural leadership and rugby league will be part of our DNA from day one,” he said.
Ms Sharpe said Perth would be a club that players and fans felt privileged to wear the logo, when it entered the NRL competition in 2027.
“I’m honoured to be part of what Anthony and (head Coach) Mal (Meninga) are building because the Perth Bears will put fans and community at the heart of every decision – and that means integrity is a priority.
“The game of rugby league has given me and my family so much and now it’s time to give back.”
