The Perth Bears and IBM have announced a landmark Australian-sporting first collaboration where the NRL club and global technology giant will work together on AI and digital innovation.
Under the collaboration, IBM will work with the new NRL franchise to deploy cutting-edge technology and build tailored AI-powered solutions ahead of the team's 2027 kick-off.
Perth Bears CEO Anthony De Ceglie said this collaboration marks a significant step in the club's journey toward becoming one of the world's first "AI-First" sports organisations.
"We're feeling very proud that IBM's partners include Ferrari, Wimbledon, the UFC and now the Perth Bears," he said.
"The Perth Bears are a blank sheet of paper with zero tech debt, which means we have the chance to do something really special in the digital space that has never been tried before and is truly next generation.
"By collaborating with IBM, we will gain access to cutting-edge tools, data and other insights to make better decisions for our players, fans and commercial choices."
As part of the agreement, IBM will leverage watsonx AI - a portfolio of AI products that accelerates the impact of generative AI in enterprise workflows to enhance productivity - to develop solutions that optimise team performance and deepen fan engagement.
David Ellis, Managing Partner IBM Consulting ANZ, said the company will also ensure early-career IBMers based in Western Australia are actively involved in delivering these innovations, reinforcing IBM's commitment to local talent development.
"We are proud to collaborate with the Perth Bears to harness the power of IBM watsonx generative AI, giving the team access to new data and insights to make better decisions across the organisation," Mr Ellis said.
IBM's Richie Paul, IBM ANZ's Consulting Generative AI and Strategy and Transformation Lead, who is leading the project said IBM has a track record of innovation in sports.
"Our AI capabilities are already transforming fan experiences for global events and organisations including Scuderia Ferrari HP, Wimbledon and the US Open. We are excited about AI's potential for the Perth Bears and for rugby league."
Managing Director IBM Technology ANZ, Nick Flood, said the project was another example of how IBM is solving real world business problems with innovative technology.
"AI continues to be a game-changer for businesses across many industries including sport as they look to modernise operations, find efficiencies and enhance fan experiences," Mr Flood said.
