The Mittagong Lions are set to implement a raft of staff and player changes for next year’s Group 6 competition.

The Highlands leading league club will battle it out in the division one comp of the restructured competition but new coach Frank Merino believes the major overhaul will not unduly affect his side’s chances for 2002.

“There are a lot of changes but it’s a harder competition and I’m reasonably confident of forging a good side,” he said.

“It’s a bit hard to say exactly how we’ll shape up at the moment because a lot of players don’t make a commitment in Group 6 until the New Year.

“It is the silly season after all.”

And while reluctant to mention any names, Merino remains upbeat about a number of potential signings.

“I’m talking to four or five top players that are at player of the year standard,” he said.

“We also want to keep the nucleus of last year’s side and if I can get the players I want on top of this, I really believe in my heart we can be competitive.

“It really just depends on who we sign.”

But like in any league side, the recruitment of a quality playmaker remains paramount, with the Lions Mark Gleeson unlikely to resign for next season.

“It’s very important that we get a constructive half back,” merino said.

“It’s also important that we hold onto a lot of the young talent.”

Merino also urged currently unsigned local players to consider pulling the boots on for the Lions.

“We’ll start training on the first Tuesday after Australia Day and I’d like to see as many players as possible there,” he said.

In other Lions news, the club’s major raffle winner was drawn at Hardware House on Saturday.

Raelene Martin was the lucky recipient of a $2000 open order to be spent at the store.

While the 100s Club draw, Dave Foskett and Mick Ecclestone won the major prize of $1500.

And despite stepping up to the newly formed premier grade, supporters of the Lions remain supremely confident their side will do Mittagong proud against the powerhouse clubs.