The Perth Bears have created a fresh slice of history as the NRL's latest franchise, signing their first Western Australia-native teenager, Zane Murray.
The 15-year-old rising star has emerged from the Bears academy program, which identifies rising talent to be pipelined through the club's nursery to progress into an NRL-level star in Perth.
The plan is now in fruition after Murray agreed to a three-year emerging contract with the Bears.
It will see Murray start his journey next year in the North Sydney system, training in January before making the move back home to the West Coast to continue his push through the grades.
Murray is a standout fullback and featured for the Kwinana Titans club in back-to-back grand final wins, where he was crowned player of the match in both games.
The talented junior has a similar playing style to Kalyn Ponga, with electric footwork and rapid acceleration once he is in space.
Incoming Bear Gehamat Shibasaki presented Murray with further Player of the Match honours in this year's Under-15s NRL WA Junior Grand Final in early September.
Bears coach Mal Meninga surprised Murray at his home for the contract agreement with the club.
"I was really excited to see Mal at the front door," Murray said in a Bears statement.
"I had no idea he was coming. It was awesome for him to hand me the contract to sign.
"I am really excited for the opportunity. Being in the Tracks Academy has really helped me develop my game, where I have learned about giving 100 per cent at every training session and not leaving anything in the tank.
"When I heard about the Perth Bears, I knew it was my chance to live out my dream of playing in the NRL."
Murray will be tested on his trip to North Sydney, but remains eager about what the future holds when he comes up against stronger opponents.
"I really want to see where I am at in terms of my physicality and fitness against the North Sydney boys. I am very excited about it," Murray added.
Meninga is thrilled to have Western Australia local talent locked down on a long-term deal to develop into a future Bears star.
"Growing the game in WA isn't just about bringing players in from other states — it's about finding and developing talent right here at home," Meninga said.
"Zane is a perfect example of that. He's a young man with genuine ability and a real love for the game. We're excited to see him grow within our program over the years ahead."
The Bears NRL squad will commence preseason training in just under six weeks' time as they prepare for their inaugural season in the competition.
