Nambucca Heads Roosters await final decision on 2022 season

Only a few weeks ago the Roosters announced for the third straight year that none of their senior players would be taking to the field next season, but newly elected club president Peter Bellden hopes that is about to change.

"Initially, it looked like we wouldn't be fielding teams for the 2022 season either, we were left off the Group 2 mailing list so we missed the cut off date to register," he said.

"Fortunately we have been able to appeal and re-apply, the final decision will come on Tuesday December 7.

"We are cautiously positive of fielding all our senior's teams for the 2022 season, First Grade, Reserves, Under 18s and Ladies League Tag."

If successful, Bellden says the club will hit the ground running with grand plans to re-establish a presence in the community after a prolonged absence.

A long overdue centenary celebration, custom jerseys with indigenous designs, an "Old Boys Day" and several other special events are all on the cards.

So far, the news has been met with a wave of positivity and hope from the community, which has only served to strengthen Bellden's resolve.

"The response from the community and the players has been really positive, people seem excited at our potential re-entry into Group 2," he said.

"We have announced Warwick Jones and Gary Jarrett as our head coaches, both have a wealth of knowledge that will benefit the club.

"Sponsors are putting their hands up, and there has been massive overall interest in the Roosters Rugby League Club, it's all looking like it might fall into place.

"This year, it's been a bit like starting from scratch, getting everything back up and running after so long.

"Full credit to our previous committee who worked tirelessly to get us in a viable financial position so we can move forward now."

Regardless of the final decision made by Group 2 next week, the club still has an uphill battle ahead of it.

After a few false starts, and a revolving door of new coaches and committee members the last few years, it might take some time before the Roosters return to the form that has seen them win more premierships than any other team in recorded Group 2 history.

Bellden isn't worried though, citing the huge interest from the players and a good committee as a solid indication the club has closed the book on its past troubles.

"We have some great talent keen to play for Nambucca and a strong committee, so I am confident we will take to the field in good shape for the 2022 season," he said.

"A premiership win might be a bit premature at this stage, but I will count 2022 as a success if we get a solid playing group running on every week."

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