​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

​Perth Bears recruitment continues to gather momentum ahead of the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2027, with reports indicating the expansion franchise has secured highly rated young outside back Sadrugu Rauqe on a multi year contract. The move strengthens the Bears’ growing roster as they focus on building a squad that blends experience with emerging talent.

The Bears have been one of the most active clubs in the player market as they prepare to enter the competition, and Rauqe is viewed as another investment in the club’s long term future.

Rauqe emerging as one of the game’s promising prospects

Rauqe has earned recognition through his performances in junior representative football and has been named to start on the wing for the Blues in the Under 19 State of Origin clash at North Sydney Oval.

The young outside back is regarded as a player with significant potential. Standing out for his athletic frame, speed, and skill set, Rauqe remains relatively inexperienced but has already shown glimpses of his ability against higher level opposition.

Earlier this year, he featured in the NRL Pre Season Challenge for the Canterbury Bulldogs and marked the occasion by scoring a try. The appearance provided valuable exposure to senior football and highlighted why talent scouts have been monitoring his development closely.

Rauqe has also represented Fiji, further enhancing his profile as one of the more exciting young backs coming through the system.

Bears continue youth focused strategy

While Perth has already assembled a sizeable foundation for its inaugural squad, the club appears increasingly focused on securing emerging talent before rival teams can do the same.

Reports suggest that, excluding Rauqe’s pending agreement, the Bears have already signed 19 players for the 2027 season.

The strategy reflects a desire to create long term stability rather than relying solely on established first grade stars. By targeting players with significant upside, Perth hopes to develop a core group capable of growing together over several seasons.

Expansion clubs often face challenges attracting elite talent during their formative years, making the recruitment of promising youngsters an important part of squad construction.

Mason Barber among recent additions

Rauqe is not the only young prospect reportedly joining the Bears project.

Last week, Perth secured highly rated North Queensland Cowboys fullback Mason Barber on a three year contract. Barber is considered one of the most exciting young backs outside the NRL and has been tipped by many observers to eventually establish himself at first grade level.

The addition of Barber, combined with the reported signing of Rauqe, demonstrates the club’s commitment to identifying and securing future stars before they reach their peak value.

The Bears are expected to remain active in the market over the coming months as they continue shaping their inaugural roster.

Building toward 2027

With more than a year remaining before their first NRL match, Perth has already made significant progress in assembling its squad.

Club officials have repeatedly emphasized the importance of laying strong foundations, both on and off the field. Recruiting talented young players provides an opportunity to establish continuity and create a sustainable pathway for future success.

Rauqe’s potential arrival would add further excitement to the project and give supporters another emerging talent to follow as preparations continue for the club’s historic entry into the competition.

As the Bears move closer to 2027, recruitment activity is expected to intensify, with additional signings likely to be announced in the months ahead.