The Perth Bears Rugby League Club has announced the appointment of David Sharpe APM OAM as its inaugural General Manager of Football. This significant move marks a new chapter for the club as it seeks to establish a strong foundation in the rugby league community.
With nearly four decades of experience in law enforcement and sports integrity, Sharpe is internationally recognized for his expertise in both fields. His illustrious career with the Australian Federal Police culminated in the role of Assistant Commissioner, where he spearheaded initiatives such as the Mental Health Strategy Framework.
Sharpe’s Diverse Background and Achievements
Sharpe’s passion for rugby league is deeply rooted in his past experiences as a player and coach with the Canberra Raiders. More recently, he served as a culture and welfare officer with the Australian national rugby league team, further cementing his leadership roles in sports.
As the CEO of Sport Integrity Australia and previously the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA), Sharpe pioneered a National Integrity Framework that set a global benchmark for maintaining sports integrity. His efforts have transcended national boundaries, promoting athlete rights, developing award-winning educational programs, and advocating for gender equality in sports leadership.
Sharpe’s accolades include the Order of Australia Medal and the Australian Police Medal.
Impact and Community Focus
Recently, under Sharpe’s leadership, Sport Integrity Australia conducted a pivotal review that uncovered instances of abuse among gymnasts at the WA Institute of Sport. His response underscored his commitment to integrity, praising the courage of victims who came forward.
Perth Bears CEO Anthony De Ceglie expressed confidence in Sharpe’s appointment, describing him as a visionary and transformative leader. “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,” De Ceglie stated.
Head Coach Mal Meninga echoed these sentiments, calling it a wonderful appointment for both the Perth Bears and the wider West Australian rugby league community. “I am excited to work alongside David and continue our long association within the sporting sector,” Meninga remarked.
Looking Ahead: Sharpe’s Vision for the Perth Bears
Sharpe himself is enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the club and the community. “Perth will be a club that players and fans feel privileged to wear the logo of,” he said, emphasizing the importance of integrity and community focus in the club’s future decisions.
Sharpe’s vision aligns with the club’s mission to put fans and community at the heart of every decision. “The game of rugby league has given me and my family so much and now it’s time to give back,” he added.
This appointment is not just a milestone for the Perth Bears but a signal of the club’s commitment to building a best-in-class organization grounded in integrity and community values. As Sharpe prepares to relocate to Western Australia, the local rugby league community eagerly anticipates the positive changes his leadership will bring.
