After a summer of pondering what could have been after falling short by a kick to complete an unbeaten season, the Luke Morgan led Benalla Saints are expected to be among the leading contenders for this year's Goulburn Valley League title.
During the past six months, we have seen new coaches arrive at reigning premier Shepparton Swans, Rochester, Kyabram and Tatura while the other eight clubs have put their faith in their current bosses.
At this time of the year, all clubs believe they are winners.
But we will now doubt find out after the opening rounds how the season may play out.
Shepparton v Shepparton United (Broadcast on ONE FM from 5.00pm Friday)
Shepparton United co-coach Tim Looby and his playing list will be still disappointed by last year's dumping from the finals and they will be hoping for a return to September action. The Demons have retained the majority of its stable of star players.
They may see a late start from one of their key midfielders in Matt Rendina who just completed cricket commitments five days ago.
Some of the new faces expected to be in the round one team is ruckman Shane Neaves and recruit Rhys Healey.
Their Deakin Reserve rival are optimistic of climbing the ladder this year.
Dan Willis will be better for the year under his belt and promises to be a key player for the Bears.
Ash Holland is sure to take his game to another level after a breakout 2014 while Ted Lindon, Seb Walsh and Daniel Watson are three additions to give the Bears more depth and class.
Historically this game has been close and I'm tipping the Demons to win by 20 points.
Kyabram v Tatura
High profile coaching appointments highlighted the off-season of two of last year's finalists. Premiership Swan Jamason Daniels crossed to the Bulldogs while former AFL player Justin Sherman took the reins at the Bombers from highly decorated coach David Williams.
Tatura has been decimated by the departure of a number of its players who led it to week two of the finals.
The notable inclusions are Lee Warnett and Jake Rennie. Both are making the step up from Murchison, with Warnett having played previously with the Bulldogs.
Kyabram's biggest challenge will be replacing Paul Newman. Sherman has gone out and recruited Billy Burstin to fill the void. The return of Luke Morris is another recruit, with the star youngster missing the bulk of last season due an injury.
Given the Bombers have a number of players returning this year I do like them to start the year off with a win to the tune of six goals.
Last Modified on 10/08/2015 12:14
