Wakefield Trinity hooker Tyson Smoothy will leave the Super League club at the end of the season to join the newly formed Perth Bears for their inaugural campaign in the NRL, following a release from his contract on compassionate grounds.
Smoothy only joined Wakefield ahead of the current campaign on a three-year deal, arriving fresh from an NRL title win with the Brisbane Broncos. Despite featuring in 21 appearances across all competitions and scoring four tries to help lift Wakefield to second place in the standings, family circumstances have prompted an early return to Australia.
Compassionate Release and Club Reaction
Wakefield head coach Daryl Powell indicated earlier this month that the hooker would depart at the end of 2026. Director of rugby Ste Mills acknowledged the difficult balance between squad retention and personal circumstances when addressing the decision.
Mills added that Tyson’s attitude and performance have been first class all year and the club is supportive of his decision
. Smoothy himself expressed gratitude toward the coaching staff and management for accommodating his situation while maintaining his commitment to the remainder of the season in England.
“I would like to thank Daryl, Ste and all the staff and players at Wakefield for their understanding of my situation and the opportunity they have provided me to return to Australia. I’m focused on continuing to work hard for this great club and to bring the Super League title to Wakefield.”
Tyson Smoothy, Hooker, Wakefield Trinity
Building the Perth Bears for Their Maiden Campaign
He stands as the 24th addition to the newly formed side. Perth has heavily targeted talent from the European game, securing approximately a third of its squad from competitions abroad. That recruitment drive includes a trio from the Leeds Rhinos consisting of James McDonnell, Harry Newman, and Mikolaj Oledzki.
The Perth recruitment strategy also draws heavily on proven NRL experience under the direction of former Australia coach Mal Meninga. The incoming class features Liam Henry from the Penrith Panthers, Nick Meaney from the Melbourne Storm, and Gehamat Shibasaki, who shared a Brisbane Broncos title-winning campaign with Smoothy last year. Toby Sexton arrives from the Catalans Dragons alongside Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui, while Emarly Bitungane and Luke Smith join after competing in the Championship with the London Broncos.
Player Perspectives on the Move Down Under
Smoothy expressed enthusiasm about joining the ambitious new franchise for its entry into the competition. I am excited about the opportunity to make history with the Perth Bears next season
, he said, noting that the squad is taking shape, and it will be good to see a few familiar faces
.
Meninga welcomed the addition of the premiership-winning hooker to the newly formed organization. I’m looking forward to working with Tyson when he returns home
, Meninga stated. He is a super-talented player who has had success throughout his career.
Wakefield Roster Planning and Future Outlook
While Smoothy finishes out the campaign in West Yorkshire, Wakefield Trinity has already begun preparing for his eventual exit. The club has teased a new signing on social media to fill the vacancy left by the departing Australian.
Wakefield sits second in the Super League table, maintaining a strong position as the season progresses. Meanwhile, the Perth Bears continue assembling the pieces for their historic first season in the NRL.
