Perth Bears GM quits in major setback for inaugural club

Perth Bears GM of Football David Sharpe APM OAM has quit the club after internal boardroom conflicts in a major setback to the inaugural club.

Sharpe, a former Assistant Commissioner with the Australian Federal Police and Canberra Raider, was one of the first appointments for the new franchise.

However, reports broke in the last fortnight of a fallout between Sharpe and several key Perth figures, including CEO Anthony De Cegile.

Concerns were raised around his performance and relationships with staff, with staff allegedly becoming agitated with his negativity and leadership style.

He also reportedly had a falling out with the North Sydney faction of the Bears, as well as issues with De Cegile, including potentially angling for his position.

In a club statement, Sharpe announced he had made the decision to exit the Bears.

"I have chosen to leave the Perth Bears for a new opportunity," Sharpe said.

"It’s been a privilege to help lead the establishment of the club, and particularly the Football Department and Bear Tracks academy.

"It has been a difficult decision, but the Football department is now well established. Western Australia remains a unique and vital opportunity for rugby league to become a truly national game.

"I will be cheering along with all supporters when the Perth Bears team takes the field in round one next year."

Perth CEO Anthony De Cegile thanked Sharpe for his contributions to the Western Australian club.

"In David’s time at the Perth Bears and under his leadership the Football Department successfully established itself, developed our team values and strategy, recruited 16 exceptional players (with more to come), established a Bears Tracks Academy and through his efforts we have a strong foundation for success.

"We wish David all the very best for the future."

Sharpe has previously been awarded the Order of Australia Medal and the Australian Police Medal.