The Blueheelers are the defending champions for the Paul Kelly Cup knockout, but coach Willie Lolohea knows his side will be up against it if they want to defend their title.

"I have mixed feelings about how I think we will go this weekend," he said.

"We are going out there to have some fun and if we came away with it cool but that would be a bonus. We just want to get our combination working heading into round one."

While they lost a number of key players from last year's grand final side, Lolohea is happy to see numbers starting to increase.

"We have lost a few players from last year," he said.

"Not on bad terms or anything we have had some move away to be closer to family after having kids, and one has headed to Coffs Harbour to study. We were a bit thin in some key positions at the start of pre-season, but in recent weeks they have started to be filled so we should be comfortable come the start of the season."

With the knockout coming the week before the season starts hasn't gone down well with some teams in Group 20, Yenda isn't too worried about the change.

"It's pretty risky in terms of injuries, but it's no different to playing week in week out during the season," he said.

"Heat will definitely be a factor this weekend, but we have been putting in a fair bit of pre-season work which will hopefully put us in a good position."

Leeton Greens coach Warren Weir was one who raised concerns and believes the competition should have either been held earlier or not at all.

"I definitely don't agree with the timing this year," he said.

"It used to be where you'd have your rep teams picked, but those games have already been and gone. I don't really see the point of it to tell you the truth."

The Blueheelers will take to the field at 10.40am as part of the second game of the day when they take on the hosts.

"It should be a pretty good game with DPC some pretty good signings so they will be a tough team," he said.

According to DPC president Steve Hogan, the Roosters scored a number of prime signings this year which he believes will bring the side a wealth of experience and problem solving on the field.

Hogan is especially chuffed this year with the addition of former Cowboys player and Group Nine coach Ben Jeffries.

"Ben is a big signing for us, and we are looking forward to his involvement, he has a lot of experience, and his leadership and skills will be a great addition," Hogan said.