The smell of heat rub and the rumble of footy boots is set to permeate from Eden's George Brown Memorial Oval once more this Sunday when Group 16 rugby league returns for the first time since 2019.
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The Eden Tigers will play host to the newest addition to an 11-strong first grade line-up this season with the Snowy River Bears trekking down from the Mountains to play the red and whites on Eden's hallowed ground.
Group 16 chairman Allan Wilton said it was wonderful to see expansion in the senior grade, and that he would be among the eager fans catching the opening round play at the ground.
Mr Wilton said the Eden Tigers had played host to the Bears previously in a trial game that was tough and physical and there would be no love lost between the two clubs come Sunday.
Mr Wilton said the two clubs had both been premiership contenders in reserve grade in 2019 and a strong rivalry had formed there that he was excited to see grow into the first grade competition.
Following a working bee on Monday the ground is in exceptional condition ahead of the first round showdown.
After making a start on pre-season training in the abandoned 2020 season, the Tigers will return hungry for play after retaining a core group of previous players, while plugging some of the gaps with exciting new inclusions.
The Tigers women's roster will also be looking to get an early footing as they take aim at reclaiming the premiership after a stunning season in 2018.
The full line-up of games is still being finalised, but expect a 2.30 kick off for firsts.
