Rugby league is far from the top sport on the Border, and with the Thunder struggling to make an impact recruiting players it could open the door for some of their younger talent to shine.

Albury have been looking at their options, but president Rick O'Connell admitted it has been hard to incentivise players to leave the coast.

It comes after losing promising forward Luke Ingram.

Ingram made a big impact in his lone season with the club, and was part of Riverina's set up for the under 23s Country Championships, but has returned to Bombala for a new employment opportunity.

"He went well but he got a really job at home so he's gone back," O'Connell said.

There is also doubt over the future of this year's best and fairest winner Jon Huggett.

Huggett, who claimed his second club best and fairest with a four-vote win over Brad Hill, is once again considering a move from the Border with Queensland in his sights.

It could leave the Thunder's forward ranks a bit bare.

However O'Connell was thrilled with the performance of the pack this year.

"I thought our forward pack was a good as any but they (Ingram and Huggett) both played well for us," he said.

Former Parramatta winger Etu Uaisele, who played for Riverina in the open's game against Western Division earlier this month, has retired leaving a vacancy in the back line.

Damien Scott is also in doubt for the season after injuring his knee late in the season.

"There could be a few holes to fill," O'Connell said.

The Thunder were just edged out by eventual premiers in the second week of finals.

They shocked a red hot Brothers outfit on the border 38-16 in the elimination final before slipping to a 17-10 loss to the Blues before the broke their nine-year premiership drought.

Albury are yet to land any recruits and while they are still looking at their options, O'Connell is also confident their juniors, who have all had a taste of the top grade can step up to the task.

"We're relying on quite a few of our under 19s coming through to first grade as well," he said.

"We'll go with the local flavour as best we come."

Jeremy Wiscombe stepped out of the Weissel Cup to be part of the Riverina under 23s side this season while Rhys Mitsch, Reece Clegg, Blake Grounds and Tye Tindalevale have all played roles in first grade at various stages.

Three Group Nine clubs are still yet to lock in coaches this season.

Kangaroos are on the hunt to replace Glenn Dumbrell while Brothers and Tumut are still weighing up their options.

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