The future of the Outback Rugby League competition in far western New South Wales was in doubt after last year's season collapsed.
Two of the four clubs were unable to field teams due a variety of issues including the pandemic, player shortages and issues with league governance.
Some thought at the time the league might not return.
Fast forward a year and tireless work behind the scenes by residents and New South Wales Rugby League officials has brought the competition back to life.
"We're pumped, we're stoked and we're just ready to go," Silver City Scorpions men's head coach Rossi Morris said.
"Just to have the competition return for another season is bloody awesome."
Morris said after a disappointing 2022 when his side was forced to play against sides near Mildura, it was great to see the sport being played back on home soil.
Tough couple of years
Menindee Yabbies captain-coach Jak Sloane said the return of his side and the Wilcannia Boomerangs was critical to the fabric of both small towns.
"We've had a tough couple of years … but this is really exciting," he said.
"It's pretty important in the smaller communities out this way."
The main goal for all four sides was attracting new players to play — and convincing many who had given the game away to return.
It was one of the things Sloane said he had been telling his players.
"I just want them to remember why they love playing the games … and play for that reason," he said.
Sloane and Morris acknowledged the significant work done behind the scenes to resurrect the league.
"The background work was difficult," Morris said.
"But we're up and running we're ready to go and let's go out there and enjoy a great season."
Morris said he was also looking forward to the women's competition kicking off.
He encouraged anyone interested in joining to reach out to one of the clubs in Broken Hill, Menindee or Wilcannia.
"Hopefully the women's team can increase their numbers and continue to improve," he said.
Round one kicks off on Saturday at Burke Oval in Wilcannia with the Silver City women's side against the Wilcannia Wildflowers.
This will be followed by the Parntu Warriors and Scorpions at noon, then the Wilcannia Boomerangs against the Menindee Yabbies at 1:30pm.
