GROUP 4's 2020 season will be previewed by the second rendition of the Jack Woolaston 9s on March 21.
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While the Group 4 home and away season starts April 4, the Jack Woolaston 9s kicks off the playing season.
Held for the first time last season when Narrabri Blues won, the 9s will again be held at Jack Woolaston Oval and once more will be hosted by the North Tamworth Bears.
"[It's] going to be another great day and start to the season for us," said Group 4 chairman Ray McCoy.
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"It was a big day last season and a great way to usher in a new season.
"The Bears won their sixth successive Group 4 first-grade competition last season and will be striving for a seventh title under new coach Brad McManus.
"They have some new Fijians, as do Dungowan, so that will make it interesting.
"You also have Moree coming back into the comp. They've won four Group 4 first-grade titles and will be playing under new coach Matt Ryan, who played in a couple of them.
"They are going to be a great addition and are drawn to play North Tamworth at Jack Woolaston Oval in the first round. That could be a great kick-off.
"Then you have a club like Gunnedah being coached by Mick Schmiedel. They have been training strongly with good numbers too."
All the first-grade clubs are in training and will use the 9s as one of their main trials before the season starts.
North Tamworth president Jody Cooper said planning for the 9s is well in hand.
The tournament is compulsory for all Group 4 clubs, and will include several visiting clubs.
"Prizemoney is $2000 for the winner, $1000 for runner-up and $250 for third and fourth," Cooper said.
"We have sprint races and best and fairest awards as well."
