Blake Wilson Ready To Reach New Heights
The Perth Bears have added more depth to their outside backs, with Blake Wilson signing a one-year deal for the club's first NRL season in 2027.
A versatile outside back, the 26-year-old has made the most of his chances in the NRL and will join the Bears' Top 30 squad from the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles.
He burst onto the scene with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in 2023, scoring six tries in his first 11 games, including a hat-trick.
Across his three years at Canterbury and one at Manly, he has scored 14 tries in 30 NRL games.
Wilson is a Noosa Pirates junior who came through the Sunshine Coast Falcons in Queensland.
Off the field, Wilson is a qualified pilot and plans to pursue a career in aviation after his football career.
He said he was excited to be part of the club's first season.
"It's a pretty special opportunity to be part of a club's first year in the NRL, and I can't wait to get to Perth and get to work," Wilson said.
"I've always backed myself when I've had a chance in first grade, and I want to come in, work hard and earn my spot. To be coached by Mal and to help set the standards for this club from day one is something I'm really looking forward to."
Perth Bears Head Coach Mal Meninga said Wilson was the type of player the Bears wanted in their inaugural squad.
"Blake is a player who sets high standards for himself, and that's something we've looked for in every player we've brought to this club," Meninga said.
"Every time he's been given an opportunity in the NRL, he's performed. He's got size, he's got speed and he knows how to finish, but just as importantly he's a quality person who will add a lot to our group.
"He can play across the backline, which gives us options, and I know he's coming to Perth determined to make the most of this opportunity."
Perth Bears General Manager of Football Gareth Holmes said Wilson's versatility and character make him a strong fit for the roster.
"Blake is a proven try scorer at NRL level, he can cover a number of positions in the outside backs, and he's highly regarded by everyone who has worked with him," Holmes said.
"Character has been a big part of how we've built this squad, and Blake is someone who does things the right way. He'll push for a spot in our first-grade side from day one."
Wilson will join his new teammates when the Bears begin pre-season training in November.
