Perth born outside back Ammaron “AJ” Gudgeon has made history by becoming the first North Sydney Bears player to be offered a train and trial placement with the Perth Bears.
At 24 years-old, Gudgeon has had an exceptional season for North Sydney, catching the eye of Perth Bears Head Coach Mal Meninga who had no reservations about handing out a train and trail opportunity.
“AJ is a quality player who is in career best form” Meninga said.
“He has worked exceptionally hard for this opportunity and I’m excited to see what he can bring to the Perth Bears”.
Gudgeon began his rugby league journey with the South West Warriors in the WARL and after stints with the Melbourne Storm, St George Illawarra Dragons and South Sydney Rabbitohs joined the North Sydney Bears this year.
“This is a full circle moment for me and I’m excited about the opportunity to compete with the best of the best in the NRL” Gudgeon said.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity North Sydney and our Head Coach Leon Latulipe has given me this year.
“They have shown faith in me and I and want to make sure we finish the season off strong and hopefully bring home another NSW Cup premiership”. Gudgeon said.
Perth Bears CEO Anthony De Ceglie declared Gudgeon’s engagement a historic moment for the Perth Bears.
“AJ is the first North Sydney player to be given a train and trial placement with the Perth Bears in what is a truly historic moment for both clubs.
“The North Sydney Bears board, CEO and staff have been instrumental in building the foundations of our club and I’m delighted this alignment continues to evolve on the field.
“I wish AJ the best of for the remainder of the season and look forward to welcoming him over to Perth later this year”. De Ceglie said.
North Sydney Bears CEO Gareth Holmes is thrilled Gudgeon’s good form has been rewarded with a train and trial placement, predicting there may be more to come.
“I’m absolutely delighted for AJ. He has been fantastic all season long and thoroughly deserves this opportunity” Holmes said.
“Leon (Latulipe) and his staff have done a wonderful job this season and I’m confident AJ is the first of many players to be given a shot with the Perth Bears.
“I’d like to thank the North Sydney Bears board and my staff for their efforts in bringing this partnership to life. We have achieved a lot in a short period of time, and I can’t wait to see the Bears back in the NRL competition next season” Holmes said.
