The Lions were one of four senior Mittagong teams to win premierships last year, along with the men's first, second and third grade sides.

The Southern Highlands Hockey Association's senior competition is expected to begin in late March, but Mittagong women's first grade coach Yolane Isedale has started plans to win successive grand finals.

Mittagong secured the women's title with a one-goal victory over Robertson last September.

Isedale said her side had some big player news ahead of the season.

She was pleased to announce that Mittagong star Sassie Economos, 20, will remain at the club in 2015.

Economos divided her time between Mittagong and Canberra last year.

She studied at university and played for the ACT under-21s state side, a juggling act she will undertake again this season.

"Sassie is dominant, the best player for the Southern Highlands so it's big news for us," Isedale said.

"She played midfield last year, but is a versatile player."

However, the Lions will take to the field without vice-captain and striker Chelsea Lenarduzzi.

"Chelsea was our top goal scorer last year, but she is moving to the Gold Coast for university," Isedale said.

"But most of our girls are still playing with us this year, so we will have a terrific squad for the season."

Two players who will want to impress this season are defenders Melissa Bernasconi and Tatum Sloggett. 

Isedale said Bernasconi and Sloggett played most of the 2014 season with Mittagong, but missed the grand final because they were overseas.

"They are very keen for this season," she said.

"As a team, we want to defend our title, but it won't be an easy task because it's a tough comp."

Isedale said the other four women's firsts teams - Robertson, Burrawang, Bowral and Moss Vale - would be difficult to beat.

"Robbo has a strong side and lots of experience," she said.

"Burrawang has become a real force and they really improved in our grade last year.

"Bowral has a young team, but showed great improvement towards the end of last season.

"Moss Vale is a good team, but was a little inconsistent last year - if they become more consistent, they could be a real threat."

The Mittagong ladies will begin training in early March.

• For more information about the Mittagong Hockey Club, visit www.mhc.acenet.com.au