Having not kicked a ball around in a competitive setting since the 2019 GDFA grand final, Yoogali FC will finally be playing for points again this weekend.
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In fact, the last competitive match they were meant to play was an FFA Cup qualifier against Wollongong Olympic, but it was one of the first sporting events in the town to affected by the pandemic.
But 13 months on from that cancelled clash, the GDFA season is set to get underway this Saturday, and Yoogali FC coach Ross Marando said his squad is "keen as mustard" to get out there.
"I have almost too many players these days, which is good because everyone is keen to get back out there and have a run and put the colours back on," he said.
"Wasn't too sure what was going to happen, especially with this year as well.
"I think the year off sort of made the boys realise how much they missed it being around the club and actually playing football."
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Marando said signs around the club were looking positive following a couple of preseason clashes but knows it will be different come kick-off on Saturday.
"Numbers have been really good," he said.
"We have about four or five out this week just with a couple of niggles and a few away, but other than that, we are looking really strong. We have plenty of numbers, so we are keen to fill two strong teams.
"Had a couple of preseason games which was good. Unfortunately, the last one we played had to be stopped a bit early due to an injury. It will just be good to get a full game in and a lot more match fitness-wise."
With Yoogali FC entering two sides this season, Marando said there would be plenty of youngsters who will be getting their first taste of senior footy.
"I think we have got a lot younger, to be honest, especially in our second side," he said.
"There are still a few old heads there, but there are a lot of 16 and 17-year-olds pushing through the ranks. It is a wide range to chose from, which is going to be good for us."
As for who he thinks is in for a big season for Yoogali, the coach pointed to two of the clubs best from recent seasons.
"There a few boys who have been training really hard," he said.
"Obviously, Michael Perre is going to be great again he has had a really good offseason. Joseph Poli has had an injury-free offseason as well, which is really good."
Yoogali FC will get their season underway with clashes against Deniliquin and Yenda Tigers, with both games kicking off at 1pm.
The 3pm game will see West Griffith take on Hanwood with all games played at Ted Scobie Oval.
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