"Last year really put a halt on any momentum we were gaining, but I've seen we're getting some good match cards and quite large crowds," Wallis said.

Speaking specifically of the top grade he said: "Having four teams isn't ideal, but the quality of football we're getting is a real benefit ... I'm really comfortable with where it sits."

Tathra and Pambula have been inseparable with a lead from equally placed Narooma and Merimbula, but even the leaderboard doesn't tell the full story.

"We've played Narooma three times and two of those games were decided by only 10 points," Wallis, who plays for the Panthers, said.

"It's really just the thought process of whoever wants it more on the day is going to get up."

And with any sport, injuries will happen, but Wallis said teams have mostly been able to pull together full strength rosters in spite of a few sidelinings.

And the reserve and women's competitions have shown similar depth and close competition which looks set to continue into the future with a bolstering from junior development in the under 17s and the maiden under 15s all-girls competition.

In reserves, Bermagui are fast and fit, but Wallis says they've got two teams hot on their heels as the competition nears the pointy end.

"By no means are Bermagui wholly dominating, Narooma or Eden are really one strong win away from pipping them for top spot," he said.

"And the returning Bega Bombers are running fourth which is a real confidence booster and a good sign for whats to come for them."

Tathra stand dominant in the women's draw, but the Breakers and Whalers are only a couple of results back with a number of rounds in hand.

Wallis said a number of clubs had provided feedback that it was challenging to field split draws with teams headed to separate grounds and it was something the league would try and implement fixes for moving forward.

He said an unfortunate toll on many clubs was a decrease in volunteer and committee numbers, largely stemming from Covid lockdowns last year.

However, committed coaches and parents have proven a driving force behind the junior draw, which bodes well for seniors into the future.

"It's a tough time, but there is a great base of people pushing these comps along and we're trying to push it as best we can."

More than a year on from the global pandemic, people are still adapting to 'the new normal', but Wallis said players and supporters were forming a strong beating heart for SCAFL.

"Just generally having footy back to any kind of normal is awesome," he said.