IT’S BEEN a long time coming, but the Nambucca Roosters are more than prepared to take the field on Sunday in the first game of the rugby league season.
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More than 12 months after their last ‘official’ game, the excitement is palpable.
“It’s pretty big - we’re more excited than anything,” recently appointed Roosters first grade captain Matt Field said.
“It’s good to be back home playing footy, we have new guernseys and shorts, and there’s a good feeling among all three teams, the whole club and through the town.”
Although a few injuries have plagued the club throughout pre-season and trials, it’s no worry for the outfit.
“We have three really good sides we can field,” Matt said. “There’s a lot of depth in the club and all grades are shaping up very strong … and when the guys come back from injury it will only add to that strength.”
The red, white and blue face Sawtell at Sawtell on Sunday, with the Under 18s kicking off at midday.
The Guardian News approached Group 2 chief executive officer Jim Anderson for a little insight into the clubs contesting this year’s competition.
“The season will be short but sharp with clubs viewing the shorter season as a bonus,” he said.
“With the re-entering of the Nambucca Heads Roosters, rugby league is looking strong in the Nambucca Valley.
“The clashes between arch rivals Macksville present great viewing for patrons with nil travel.
“All clubs look forward to playing them (the Roosters) again and for the first time.”
* Grafton Ghosts: The reigning 2014 premiers have been very quiet behind the scenes, but movement with transfers indicate they will be strong again.
* South Grafton: Have recruited a lot of numbers with some quality besides quantity. Last year were major premiers in Under 18s and have retained most of that squad. They are a very enthusiastic club and hard to beat at home.
* Orara Valley: Have a new experienced coach from England who is helping the squad rebuild - will be tough at home.
* Coffs Harbour: Runners up last year by a penalty goal and coach Col Speed has a point to prove. Several new signings with the usual English player connection. Will be fit, hard and well drilled.
* Sawtell: Coached by Steve Spencer, they certainly have put in effort in the off-season. Strong through the three grades and not far off the pace last year and should feature again.
* Bellingen/Dorrigo: Due to the effort of a few will field three grades. Recruited a new coach from Fiji, Big Bill, along with several players. Callin Tapine is back after two years at Coffs - he will stiffen things in the middle. Had a strong showing in the Army game.
* Nambucca Heads: Great to have this club back in the competition. Coached by the experienced Peter Barrett. Have strong committee and numbers on the field.
Three consecutive grand finals then a year off - probably unheard of. Perhaps Pat and the boys needed a spell. Unknown quantity but have trialled well. Welcome back, Roosters.
* Macksville: Probably the cornerstone over the past decade in Group 2 rugby league. Equalled Bellingen’s premiership record several years ago. Over the years has been a highly successful club developing many fine young players who have gone on to play in the NRL. Perhaps a bit short on size this year, but should be in the mix once captain/coach Woods arrives from France. Have also recruited several players to complement the locals.
Meanwhile, Group 2 representative sides this season will be known as The Gladiators.
