The game will mark the first time the two strongest school league teams in Wagga have played since they featured in a dramatic draw in a Hardy Shield rubber a year ago.

With a spot in the Hardy Shield final hanging on the result in 2009, Mater Dei and Wagga High finished locked at four-all to remain unbeaten through the season.

Amid considerable controversy and chagrin, Wagga High missed out on the final, but Mater Dei marched into the decider on superior for-and-against points.

The following week Mater Dei crushed Mt Austin High 18-4 in the Hardy Shield final, while Wagga High had to settle for thrashing Kooringal High 28-4 in the play-off for third and fourth.

A year down the track the Wagga High players are sure to have revenge on their minds when they tangle with Mater Dei in tonight's opening-round clash.

Wagga High coach Andrew Morton yesterday, however, was not putting great emphasis on the game.

Morton stressed the Wagga High had been rebuilt since last year because of the natural turnover of students at the school.

"We're a bit of an unknown," Morton said. "We've lost a few kids ... one broke his arm last week.

"We'll have a young side, but we've still got some very good players.

"A lot depends on how everyone aims up."

Despite playing down the strength of Wagga High, Morton was eager to label Mater Dei as favourite for the Hardy Shield crown.

"Basically they're (Mater Dei) the benchmark," he said. "We've all got work to do."

Although Wagga High will have a fresh look tonight, the team still boasts several young guns.

Fullback Kyle Philpot, hooker Sam Davy and lock Chris Kelly are genuine game-breakers and will give Wagga High thrust and authority.

Philpot in particular is an attacking dynamo and has the speed and skill to test Mater Dei to the limit.

The young fullback plays for Group Nine club Kangaroos and seems likely to be blooded in first grade at some stage during the season starting on April 17.

Davy is another rising star and his guile and creativity around the ruck will give Wagga High a head start.