The Perth Bears have secured one of the most exciting young talents from a rival code, signing Cooper Watters on a two-year deal to make the switch to the West.
Watters has emerged from the Australian representative ranks in rugby union, starring in the Australian Schoolboys and Australia's Sevens outfits.
The 20-year-old rising talent will begin his quest for NRL stardom when he trains with the North Sydney Bears NSW Cup side until November this year.
Bears coach Mal Meninga is confident Watters will develop into a star in the red and black, highlighting his attacking prowess.
“Cooper is a trailblazer – just like the Bears – in making this move from rugby union to rugby league. He's dedicated to improving his game and has plenty of skill and plenty of speed,” Meninga said in a Bears statement.
“I love his commitment to the game and his confidence. He is being bold by joining the Bears, which is a core value of the club, as we look to build the foundations for a long and successful future.
“He comes from great Australian Schoolboys pedigree, and his time with the North Sydney Bears will prepare him for the rigours of the Bears' pre-season program in Perth.
“Cooper's background in sevens has given him something you can't really coach — the ability to read space, beat defenders one-on-one and finish under pressure at speed.”
Watters, who played league as a child, says he is thrilled to return to the 13-man code and continue his development into a professional athlete.
“Growing up I was a massive rugby league fan, so I am very excited about getting to live out my dream of one day playing in the NRL,” Watters said.
“I've loved every bit of my union and sevens journey, but when I look honestly at where my future is best served, I think league is the right path for me. I feel like my skillset is built for it.
“Coming into a brand-new club is a bit daunting, but I think it's the perfect place for me, knowing the frameworks the Bears have in place, and I look forward to growing my game under Mal Meninga and his team.
“I really believe the Bears are the right place to help me become the best version of myself as a footballer.”
The Bathurst native played in the under-20s World Rugby Championship, where he was a standout figure, leading the count for line breaks and tackles for the Junior Wallabies.
Watters is earmarked to become a powerhouse wing or centre in his development back into rugby league.
