After a defining 2023 season for the Bears, it is no surprise that our star halfback Jesse Marschke has caught the eye of NRL recruiters. Marschke played an integral part in our Knock-On Effect NSW Cup leading the team all the way to the 2023 Grand Final. First coming to the Bears in 2021 and having played 44 games in the red & black, the North Sydney Bears are pleased for Jesse to have the opportunity to now progress on to a full time NRL contract with the St George Illawarra Dragons.

Until we make our own return to the top league, it is our aim to continue to provide an excellent football program that develops our players to the highest level. Since Pat Weisner, NSW Cup Head Coach, took on the club’s recruitment role, we have seen a number of Bears contracted players move on to full time NRL contracts including Terrell May, Junior Pauga, Fa’amanu Brown and Dane Aukafolau to name just a few. It’s safe to say that Weisner knows how to pick a star and has been busy once again cultivating a strong KOE NSW Cup team for the red & black this season.

Marschke’s move up to the NRL is further testament to the club’s current coaching staff, winning culture and high-performance programs. We thank Jesse for his time with the Bears and look forward to watching him make his debut in the NRL soon.