St Pat's play host to Parkes United in men's Premier League Hockey opening round

And Pat's are thankful round one finally arrives on Saturday.

The Bathurst men have been putting in plenty of training in the lead up towards the now four-team competition, following the withdrawal of Lithgow Zig Zag, and will look to execute on game day against Parkes United.

Pat's coach Shane Conroy said the lack of teams this year won't reduce the competition's intensity.

"It feels like we've been training forever," he said.

"We're pretty keen. The enthusiasm's there but it was disheartening when we heard last week that Zig Zag was pulling out to make it a four team competition.

"The pre-season gave us a good understanding of where everyone's at and I think it's going to be a pretty even competition. Every team can win on their day and it will be about who peaks at the right time come finals."

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That's a fair assessment given that all four teams will be playing semi-final hockey, and it could encourage clubs not to show all their cards too early.

Parkes have been battling to keep their numbers up this season but are still expected to field a team boasting an exciting crop of young talent - much like the Saints.

"We blooded a lot of our younger players last year so they know what it's all about now," he said.

"They got a taste of semis last year and a few of them are ready to step up. A few more were blooded during the nines in pre-season and have shown a lot of promise.

"Parkes have got some experienced guys that have played for a few years there plus a few younger guys around the same age as our guys.

"With them travelling though you don't know who they will bring on the day. We just have to be mindful of our own game and prepare as we usually prepare."

Lachlan Howard will be a big first round absence for Pat's after breaking his finger, while Jaden Ekert is away in Lithgow coaching the women's team.

Pat's play host to Parkes United on Bob Roach Field from 1.50pm.