7 October 2025
The North Sydney Bears have appointed Leon Latulipe as head coach of their NSW Cup side for the 2026 season, marking the start of a new era for the club ahead of the Perth Bears’ entry into the NRL in 2027.
The Perth expansion has brought an end to Norths’ feeder partnership with the Melbourne Storm, prompting a series of personnel changes at North Sydney Oval during the offseason.
Latulipe brings an extensive Rugby League résumé, having coached at both junior representative and senior levels with NRL clubs including the Wests Tigers, Manly Sea Eagles and South Sydney Rabbitohs. Most recently, he led the Tigers’ Jersey Flegg (U21s) team in 2024 and 2025.
The Bears said his experience in player development would help strengthen their pathway to the NRL, with Perth Bears head coach Mal Meninga and assistant coach Ben Gardiner—who previously led the Bears NSW Cup team—assisting in his recruitment.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Leon as head coach of the North Sydney Bears NSW Cup team for 2026,” said Bears CEO Gareth Holmes. “His experience across multiple clubs, combined with a deep understanding of our systems and culture, makes him an ideal appointment for this next chapter in our proud history. Leon’s previous tenure with the Bears left a great impact, and his return—guided by input from the Perth Bears coaching staff—signals a united vision across our pathways.”
Latulipe said he was honoured to return to the club. “The North Sydney Bears are a proud club with a strong tradition, and with the Bears heading into a new era, I feel privileged to be part of it,” he said. “I look forward to working closely with Mal, Ben, the players, staff and community to build on the foundations already laid and help the team perform at its best in 2026.”
He replaces Tony Barnes, who served in the role for just one season. After reaching consecutive NSW Cup grand finals in 2023 and 2024, the Bears slipped to 10th in 2025 with nine wins and 15 losses, missing the finals altogether.
Norths have begun re-signing players for 2026, with Jayden Yates, Coby Thomas, Nathaniel Roache, Phil Makatoa, Ethyn Martin, Kieran Hayman, Riley Meyn and Matt Stimson all confirmed.
Pre-season training is due to begin in early November, with Latulipe to oversee preparations for a return to form in 2026.