BATHURST Bushrangers senior first grade co-coach Tim Hunter believes the club's opportunity to cater to a greater variety of skill sets and lifted the mood around the club in their returning to training.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The presence of three teams over the two-tier setup has allowed the Bushrangers to welcome in a bunch of players making their first foray into Australian Rules football while it brings back together their leading core group.
Hunter has loved what he's seen during the return to limited training for the club and is keen to see how the three-team setup plays out for Bushrangers in 2020.
"We're all systems go, back at training with decent numbers, and we're really looking forward to the season," he said.
"While some of us have trained together for the last few years, a lot of the boys are excited to have the chance to play with mates who, just due to circumstance, haven't been able to recently.
"That period was still a really good time for us but it's great for those blokes who have missed playing together due to where they were drafted. That's a really exciting aspect during this year."
Bushrangers have been quick to get back into the swing of things at training, even with restrictions in place for how they can train, on account of COVID-19 regulations.
A question hanging over the two-tier setup will be how player movement between the grades is managed.
It's still uncertain whether limits will be placed on top grade players coming down to reserve grade teams or if those clubs playing over both tiers - Bushrangers and Orange Tigers - have free rein over player movement.
"That's something that's still being worked out," Hunter said.
"As far as we know, it will run like a normal two tier structure with players picked on form in games and training. That's how we've envisioned it, and that's something they're still working out.
"It's been a busy time just getting the season up and running, so that will come later."
For now the attention turns towards getting players back into rhythm as the top grade seeks a title defence, and the other aspect is getting new members to grips with the game.
And Hunter said there's still room available among the Bushrangers camp for those interested in getting involved.
"We've got something to offer for anyone who wants a game, we're still on the lookout for more players, especially with a few other codes not going ahead," he said.
"It's an option for those who want to give the game a crack for the first time."
Want to keep up to date with Bathurst sport? Sign up to our daily newsletter and breaking news alerts here:
Alexander Grant
Part of the Western Advocate's sports desk in Bathurst.
Part of the Western Advocate's sports desk in Bathurst.
