Rugby Union: Quirindi take on Robb and St Alberts in three-way trial

The front-rower played for the Lions as a junior and later in school and uni holidays or when home to visit family.

Now living back in the area, he has taken over the coaching reigns from Tom Koerstz, after he moved back to Dubbo.

Nankivell brings to the role the experience of a number of seasons of Sydney Subbies rugby with Colleagues and a deep connection, and passion, for the Lions.

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The area too is very close to his heart, and he said it had long been his wish to come back.

HIs work though, he is head of agency for grain marketing company Market Check, was in Sydney. But COVID showed he could still perform his job remotely, so after being "back and forth" from Sydney last year he is now in Quirindi full time.

"It worked out well," he said.

Nankivell got his first real look at the Lions on Friday night with the club hosting Robb and St Alberts in a three-way trial.

Their last hit out before the season kick-off, he was "very happy" with the way they ripped in.

"There was some good play and some stuff we need to work on," he said.

"Hopefully we can get a good training in this week."

They have a tough start drawing Pirates first-up.

"It's going to be a tough hit out," Nankivell acknowledged.

"[But] I think we'll be competitive. We've got a really good team and good bunch of guys".

They know they can compete with them, almost producing the upset in their last meeting.

"We're excited," Nankivell said of the season itself.

"We're happy with the way we're going, we feel like we're building to have a good fun season."

He spoke about converting "some of those close losses" last year into wins, but more than that creating a team where "everyone wants to play for each other".

"Just to get a young team to bond and merge well and create a few memories on the paddock and get an understanding of the Quirindi culture," he said about his expectations for the season.

"And just enjoy it."

"If we can create that the wins will come."

As well as Koerstz they have lost gun young backrower Angus McKenzie. Both will be big losses but on the flip side they have picked up a few handy players.

"There's about five young Farrer fellas working on farms nearby," Nankivell said.

"Lachie Grant is a new face this year. He's a front rower and is looking strong.

"There's a new school teacher at Quirindi High. He's played a fair bit of footy in Sydney and will be a good solid older head."

Alongside skipper Tom Grant.

Brodie Nankivell will be another big player for them. [Ed] Nankivell is also tipping big things from Sam Avard this season. The best and fairest for second grade last season, he believes he is in for a "really good season".

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