A certain song concerning mad dogs and Englishmen sprang readily to mind, however Hawks president Darrel Kachel pointed out that Tamworth had started training this week and the club and Inverell’s new coach Alex McCosker were keen to make a start.

“We have new training techniques and we’ve purchased all new training gear this year, so everything’s brand new,” Kachel said.

“It’s all part of the club’s push for a better outcome this season. 

“I’m quite excited about the recruiting, we’ve got a couple of players who’ve indicated their intention to return and play with us again this year.

“We’re anticipating a bright 2013 season; our sponsorship’s strong and we’re looking forward to the two pre-season matches in February – March.”

For McCosker it will be his first year coaching an A grade side. He coached the juniors last year and he said he is nervous, but more excited than anything else.

“It’s time to start getting a bit fit and wear off some of that Christmas cheer,” McCosker said.

“We have a strong core of players and we’ve got David Watts coming back to give us a hand out this year and his experience will be very helpful.

“Hopefully they’ll fix the draw this year. You don’t play to lose so our plan is to win.”

It is a simple plan that no doubt McCosker and the club would like to see work. One side that may threaten the plan, however, is Glen Innes and McCosker knows it only too well.

“Glen will be strong again this year and they should have the players. They don’t seem to have trouble finding players,” McCosker said.

“The club’s new training gear this season will help in the lead up and the pre-season comp held in the group will be our first goal.”

McCosker said any new players were welcome to attend the training session on the January 17.

“The more the merrier,” he said.