GUNNEDAH FC is gearing up for a successful 2019 season off the back of their recent pre-season trips.
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Recently the club took two sides to compete at the six-a-side Viking Challenge competition in Foster.
Both sides had strong showings, making it to the round-of-16 with the club's first-grade side being eliminated by the competition's eventual winners.
Club coach Andrew Cygan said a highlight of the Viking Challenge was seeing father and son duo Justin and Charlie Lawrence play alongside each other.
"I still find it hard to believe that Charlie is only 14," Cygan said.
"He has so much potential and it will be an absolute honour trying to improve him this year and see where soccer takes him.
"I'm sure Justin was excited to play in the same team as his son."
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Following the club's strong showing in Foster, the group continued its good form with an impressive showing in a friendly-match with Muswellbrook.
Despite going on to lose the match 6-5, Cygan said there were "a lot of positives" to take out of the match.
"I was blown away by the talent of the young players, at one point we had a midfield that had four players [aged] 17 and under," he said.
"Eli Rankmore came on at 3-0 down and changed the game, scoring a couple of goals and setting up two.
"I've only ever really seen him train, but to see how calmly he took his goals, I'm incredibly excited about what he can achieve this year."
Developing younger players is set to be a theme of FC's season, with several younger players expected to take their place in the side.
"Our goal-keeper in Muswellbrook was only 17 and he played very well," Cygan said.
"We will also welcome 15-year-old Brodie Trembath, who just moved to town, he isn't fazed by playing with the big guys and should fit right in.
"As well as that, we will also welcome back cricketing duo Adam McGuirk and Myles Conn at the end of the month after cricket finals finish.
"With those young guys joining our squad it is really looking to be a bright year ahead for our club."
