Stokes wishes right-hand man well after surprise jump to NRL

Zoe SamiosBusiness reporter

Updated May 15, 2025 – 5.45pm, first published at 11.20am

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One of Kerry Stokes’ most senior lieutenants has been named as the inaugural chief executive of the NRL’s Perth Bears in a sign of rugby league’s ambitions to solidify its presence in Western Australia.

Anthony De Ceglie, Seven West Media’s Fremantle-born television boss, will take charge of the NRL-controlled Bears, Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys announced on Thursday. The appointment was first reported by The Australian Financial Review.

Zoe Samios covers wagering and the business of sport from the AFR's Sydney newsroom. She was previously the media and telecommunications reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, and covered media at The Australian.