Former Broncos coach Kevvie Walters has confirmed he has spoken with the ARL Commission about the inaugural Perth Bears coaching job.
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The expansion team the Perth Bears will join the NRL in 2027 and Brad Arthur and Mal Meninga have been linked to the vacant coaching job, but Walters is a late contender for the position that is set to be announced in the coming weeks.
“It’s been a busy day for you Kevvie, while you have been up in the commentary box, we have had some breaking news around the Perth Bears coaching position,” Lara Pitt said on Fox League.
“We have been told by the reports in The Daily Telegraph that you have been sounded out by the commission, what do you have to say?”
Walters revealed he was sounded out about the coaching job and what it entails and wouldn’t rule out making a play for the position.
“Well I have always said that I am always interested in coaching,” Walters said.
“And if anything comes available or I am asked to speak about something I will, so I was happy to have a chat with the NRL about the role and what it involves.
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“We will just see where it takes us. Obviously they haven’t made a decision yet, but it’s nice to be included in those conversations.
“Coaching is my passion. I love working on Fox though, don’t get me wrong, but I also love coaching.”
Walters believes the lure of setting up an NRL team to grow rugby league in AFL heartland is too exciting an opportunity to pass up.
“I think because of my passion for the game a footprint in Western Australia and Perth and to be a part of that is what excites me,” Walters said.
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“Being part of not so much pioneering because we have had a team there in recent years. But just to go there and set a club up and make a real impact in the AFL world.
“I think it is a great opportunity. I like the decision by the NRL to bring Perth in and I would love to be a part of the team over there. I’m sure I could make a difference.”
The 57-year-old Walters coached the Broncos to 50 wins from 99 games from 2021 to 2024, including taking them to the Grand Final in 2023.
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Walters also coached the Queensland Maroons to two series wins from four from 2016 to 2019.
He also coached Catalans to 25 wins from 63 games in the Super League.
