After a forgetful 2020, like most sporting clubs, the Mittagong Lions are eager to leave 2020 in the dust.
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Leader at the helm, Mittagong Lion's president, Matthew Aiken can't wait to get stuck into the 2021 season.
The 2021 season will have the green and gold looking to regain their winning ways.
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"I could stand here and tell you to defend "The Lions Den" and win all home games but I'm past that!," Aiken said.
"The plan is to make winning a habit, and to be the best. With me this is an obsession.
"I firmly believe if we stay injury free, we can win competitions across all teams this year.
"I've never entered a football season so confident of such.
"I think we have the makings here of being the most successful club in Group Six."
Kicking things off for the new season, the Lions will be hitting the training paddock very shortly.
"Our first preseason training will be on Tuesday, January 19, 6.15pm at "The Lions Den," Aiken said.
"We would love healthy numbers across all teams that's from 18's/Ladies Tag/Tackle, Reserve and First Grade.
"So if you are keen to have a run you'll be welcome."
There will be some new names at the club and they'll be looking to come into the team and make an immediate impact.
"We're all very excited with the new signings," Aiken said.
"We've covered the bases nicely with Jimmy Grehan, Jeremy Latimore, Bryson Goodwin and Jarrod Boyle to name a few.
"Lion's fans will have a lot to be excited about this season after the club added up to six new players through the off season.
"We brought in a lot of talent and they'll make a difference on-and-off the field.
"Add to that list our quality local players, plus we've got some fantastic young players coming through.
"This much experience will ensure the club is on the right path for success.
"I'm super-excited."
Going through a difficult 2020 season, Aiken knows the club has come out stronger from it. There's no excuses to not be tough this 2021 season.
"We hit the ground running with preseason last year, but as we all know the world then quickly changed! COVID-19 hit," Aiken said.
"People and businesses were perishing, I hold closely such people, so not playing footy was the last thing on people's minds.
"To everyone's delight, community winter sport resumed mid year. To the club/players and sponsors credit we reset.
"We were competitive in some teams and nearly won the Ladies Tag Grand Final, but our First Grade side got decimated with injury.
"It's now folklore the six First Graders showing up to Thirlmere, I have those players names tattooed on me!
"We're known as "The Lions" and the name holds significant value to us.
"Giving up in the face of adversity is not an option around here. I'm grateful for last season as we used that to build a deep roster.
"No more sad excuses from me, we'll be competitive if we stay injury free."
The Mittagong Lions season kicks off Friday, April 9.
Their first home game is April 11th.
Keep up to date with the Lions on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MittagongLionsSRLFC.
"We have plenty of sponsorship opportunities for business houses," Aiken said.
"So please don't hesitate to private message our Facebook Page with your details."
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