The Perth Bears recruitment drive continues to build momentum with four-time NRL premiership winner and New Zealand Kiwis international Scott Sorensen set to join the club on a two-year deal to commence in 2027.
Since making his debut in 2014, Sorensen has played 139 First-Grade games with stints at the Cronulla Sharks, Canberra Raiders and Penrith Panthers.
Sorensen was an integral member of the Panthers four-time premiership winning teams between 2021-24 and is certain to be a cornerstone of coach Mal Meninga's squad for the 2027 season.
"Scott is a natural leader who had great success at club and international level," Perth Bears head coach Mal Meninga said.
"He has great skill with the ball and really sets the tone with his defence. Above all, Scott is a selfless person who other players want to play with.
"I'm very excited to welcome him and his family to the Perth Bears."
Sorensen is the fourteenth player to commit to the Perth Bears for their inaugural season, with the 32-year-old declaring the chance to move his young family to Perth coupled with the chance to be a part of history as the motivating factors behind his decision.
"Perth is a fantastic city. I'm absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of the first-ever Perth Bears squad," Sorensen said.
"My wife is from Perth, so I know there is already a lot of excitement about the Bears coming into competition from people in Western Australia.
"It's a privilege to have the opportunity to be a part of the team and help set the standards and build the culture of the club from day one."
Perth Bears General Manager of Football David Sharpe hailed the announcement as another significant milestone for the club.
"Scott has been on our radar for a long time. I am delighted we have managed to sign him to the Perth Bears for the next two years," Sharpe said.
"He has a connection with Western Australia and is obviously a fantastic player who possesses the leadership qualities and ambition we look for when recruiting to our squad.
"I wish him all the best for the upcoming season and look forward to welcoming Scott and his young family to WA in 2027."
