- Rising Apa Twidle will leave the Parramatta Eels at the end of 2026 after agreeing to a three-year deal with the new Perth Bears (joining in 2027).
- The deal is in a cooling-off period, but he’s expected to go ahead with it because the offer is significantly better.
- Twidle burst onto the scene with a standout debut (2 tries in 3 minutes), which attracted strong interest from multiple clubs.
- Parramatta reportedly only offered a low-value development contract (~$80k), while Perth provided better financial security and opportunity.
- A key factor: the Bears are offering him a chance to play in the halves, rather than being used as a utility/backline option.
- He becomes one of the early signings helping build the Bears’ inaugural squad under coach Mal Meninga.
Bottom line:
Parramatta unearthed a serious talent, but underpaid and under-positioned him—Perth stepped in with money, role clarity, and long-term security, and likely pinched him.
Replies
That's a very fair assessment there Coryin
Well Put Coryn.
I think a lot of people are expressing opinions based on not trusting R@R on making the right decision, or on Management unable to get a deal over the line for the ones they want to keep.
Knowing which is which as a memeber, fan, supporter is becoming more difficult.
If Ryles wanted to keep the kid then i'm pissed they couldn't find a way
If Ryles was happy to let him go as he ranks others more highly, then i'm fine with it.
In this instance by only offering him a development deal speaks volumes in how he is viewed by R&R.
R&R and Ryles future will tie directly into the making of these decisions.Are they good or will they come back to bite them like a Mahoney, Gallen, Keary, Tupou.
Absolutely, well said Coryn & Bluey, unfortunately this is an area of concern based on recent retention, but if Ryles & the club are investing in Lorenzo / Bamblett / Fletcher etc… 100% back it.
But, it now becomes imperative we keep them - and they become the better decision. We cant afford another situation like our current 5/8th one.
Like with Blaize leaving, this to me is disappointing, Twiddle looked like he has ’something', the way he handled himself in that 20mins under high pressure, out of position, and with moving combinations due to injury - imo was impressive.
But as long as its strategic, fair enough.
Shame, but not surprising with a new club throwing around big money.
I would've liked to see him get a shot on the wing, but realistically if he sees his future as a fullback/No6 he needs to move.
Considering at Parra he's behind Joash and Isaiah for fullback and in the halves the Fletcher / Lorenzo writing is already on the wall with Ronnie Volkman now being ahead of him as a back up, an offer for 3 years from the Bears is irresistable.
So we get rid of Iongi and play him 1?
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