John Langford
Key players: N/A The Lowdown: Edendale are traditionally one of the best prepared teams for round one. This year is no different, with 26 players taking part in their first training run back in January. The club has 30 players on the books which was not quite enough for two teams. John Fodie reported that his big squad will take some managing but it will allow for rotation during the cluttered and long competition this year. Three games against Cromwell, Upper Clutha and Clutha Valley has the Magpies well set to swoop on Waikaka on Saturday. WAIKAKA Captain: Willy Hewittson Coaches: David White & Jono Townsend
Key gains: Corey Woods, Matt McCall, Travis Millan, Aaron McCraw, Steve Smith, Reuben Caughey.
Key losses: Clint McIvor, Sam Bolger. Key players: Willy Hewittson The lowdown: Waikaka have had three warm up games, all were physically hard games which resulted in a draw against Upper Clutha and wins over Heriot and Clinton. The arrival of two players from Wales in mid-April will add depth to their squad.
DRUMMOND-LIMEHILLSSTAR Captain: Ritchie Allison Coaches: Chris McIlwrick & Anton Langford
Key gains: Hayden McCullum, Chris McIlwrick
Key losses: Grey Gardener, Grayson Hamilton, Matthew Thompson, Ronnie Gardener
Key players: Angus ODonnell, Jack Maguire, Ritchie Allison, Joel Ratima
The lowdown: DLS are lacking player depth this season and the long round robin season will test them out. Fleet-footed teenage fullback Joel Ratima was the standout player during their preseason. TE ANAU Captain: Grant Taylor Coaches: Ray Hemi, Callum Bruce & Barry Taylor.
Key gains: Callum Bruce, Mark Hunter, Niumaia Bari, Jordan Harris, Sam Wairau, James Wairau, Matt Thompson, Filipe Kolinisau, Mikaele Tagicakiverata Railoa.
Key losses: Angus Larsen, Tutoko Pou, Liam McDermott, Danny Gilmore, Cameron Turner.
Key players: Issac Wairau, Napoliani Serulele, Callum Bruce,