The 11th hour signing of three top line players has quelled speculation that the Lions were headed for finals oblivion in their first year back in the top grade.

Premier five-eight Trent Anderson, ex-Easts first grader Dean Johnsen and classy fullback Shane Struthers were officially welcomed into the club at Tuesday night's training session.

"This is a huge coup for the club and these guys are bordering on superstars at this level," coach Grahame Andrews said.

"They're fair dinkum and we can now realistically aim for a premiership this season."

The Lions title campaign will kick off on Sunday when they meet Warragamba at Mittagong Sportsground.

And perhaps the biggest drawcard for the Lions legion of fans is bulky centre Dean Johnsen.

The 28-year-old powerhouse boasts a bursting league CV, spending three seasons at Easts and captaining New Zealand in the World Sevens tournament.

An uncompromising, hard hitting three quarter, Johnsen is under no illusions about the Lions' task.

"There's some good teams in this comp but I've come here to play footy, don't worry about that," he said.

Ex-NRL pivot Trent Anderson is another signing desperate to make his presence felt in the group.

"I've got a lot of respect for Grahame (Andrews) and I think he's the premier coach in Group 6," he said.

"Grahame can bring out the best in players come finals time and all the big reputations in the group will count for nothing then.

"I'm certainly not travelling down here not to win."

Anderson has spent time at Oakdale and Thirlmere as well as stints at St George and Cronulla.

Fullback Shane Struthers comes to eth Highlands with the reputation as one of the best kick returners going round.

With a dangerous blend of pace and aggression, Lions fans are hoping the 28-year-old will carve up the opposition from the back.

"This is just a different challenge for me and it's good to be a part of a club on the up," he said.