Dumbrell will lead the team for another season, likely on his own for the first time since taking over from Simon Watson. 

This year he was aided by co-coach Tuki Jackson, who has since moved on to Albury Thunder. 

Dumbrell said Jackson did leave a big hole both on and off the field. 

“We’re definitely still looking for someone to take his spot in the centres,” he said. 

“In terms of coaching, at this stage it’s all open.

“I’ll be helped by Hayden Crockett, but I’m not sure if there will be another co-coach or not. 

“If not, it will be the first time on my own.”

The club has also made some significant signings ahead of next year’s Group 20 competition. 

They include the likes of Blake Petrie, who had a year off from the game in 2016, as well as Josh Nikoro, who will make the switch from the Leeton Greens and Wilson Feagai. 

Dumbrell said the club had a focus on retaining and attracting young players.

“That was our focus this year and it will be again next year,” he said. 

“We’re really happy with our signings so far, especially because of their age as they are still quite young. 

“The problem we have faced before and still do is a lot of our lower grades are filled by kids from Yanco Ag. 

“So, when they finish school, they aren’t sticking around because they aren’t generally from around here.”

Dumbrell said having more youth around the club was positive for everyone. 

“These guys will bring with them a lot of enthusiasm and energy,” he said. 

“The likes of Feagai and Nikoro will also have a bit of mongrel about them, which is good too. 

“You need that in a side.”

The 2016 season was a solid one for the Hawks, but the club hopes to go even further next year. 

Dumbrell said pre-season training would get underway on January 10. 

“We do tend to focus on fitness, but I’ll be doing more than just that,” he said. 

“Hopefully we get some good numbers come along.”