NORTH Tamworth Bears and Kootingal-Moonbi Roosters start preparations for their 2019 Group 4 season at home on Saturday while Gunnedah Bulldogs head to Port Macquarie.
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Narrabri Blues did have a trial against Dubbo Westside but that has been cancelled while South West Robins are playing Group 21 Second Division side Murrurundi Mavericks in a men's and ladies league-tag trial at Quirindi from 3pm Saturday.
Dungowan Cowgirls also have a LLT trial against Warialda Wombats in Warialda on Saturday as well.
Gunnedah's trip to Port will be with a depleted squad due to players' work and other sporting commitments, advised coach John Hickey.
Kootingal-Moonbi are hoping to have first and second grade trials against the Gulgong Terriers when they kick off at 2.30pm at Kootingal Oval, although it is likely there will only be a first grade clash.
The Roosters are hoping to have a second grade side for the first time in their history with Damien Allan to coach. He won last season's Group 4 league tag premiership with the Rooster girls.
North Tamworth Bears are striving for a record-breaking sixth successive premiership under captain-coach Scott Blanch and have a first grade trial against Terrigal, timed for a 4pm kickoff at Jack Woolaston Oval on Saturday.
"They are a quality side," Blanch said. "We play them every year, thereabout, and it puts us in good stead as well as giving us a reality check."
The Bears also have a trial against Aberdeen lined up for April 13 and have added some good signings in the shape of Josh Schmiedel, Andrew Moodie, Cody Byrne and Alec Cocking to their 2019 squad.
Strong and stocky Cocking has been one of the hardest workers on the training track in preparation for the new season too, Blanch added.
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"He's had a year off," Blanch said. "He's really impressed me at training over the off-season.
"He's going to be a great addition to our pack with that bit of youth and enthusiasm. It's sizing up to be an exciting season.
"All the clubs seem to be putting in the work and getting some good numbers on the park."
