Coming off their first title in nine years, there was plenty of enthusiasm across all five grades for the Blues during the pre-season.

Coronavirus put a sudden stop on things, but Bristow is confident confirmation the season will start on July 18 will provide a much-needed boost.

"We are yet to have a training session so I'm hoping everyone gets down there on Tuesday and the energy and the keenness is lifted with the news," Bristow said.

"We will have to wait but I think the uncertainty was a big factor in everyone not being too keen.

"We now have a definite answer.

"The uncertainty dragged on for too long and the longer it dragged on the more people lost interest. Now that we have the green light we will all be looking forward to getting back out there."

Returning to his hometown club off the back of title success in America last year, the crafty hooker scored a hat-trick in their grand final win over Southcity.

Named as man of the match in the decider, Bristow is thrilled with the chance to repeat the dose in a shortened season.

"I was stoked that we got the green light," Bristow said.

"It's my first opportunity to be able to defend a premiership and I want to give it everything we can."

Tumut welcomed back Austin McDougall and Jacob Sturt after they linked with Wynnum-Manly in the pre-season.

With the Queensland Cup season cancelled both returned home however there are now doubts over McDougall's availability.

"There is a question mark over Austin now due to work," Bristow said.

"He's picked up a job where he works 21 (days) on so it will be a big loss if we are not to have him."

Tumut have lost best and fairest winner Jed Pearce, Tom and Ben Warner plus the retired Ben Roddy from their grand final winning side.

However with Group Nine bucking the trend in terms of playing this season, Bristow hasn't ruled out looking to see if other players are interested in getting a game.

"We're still not sure what is happening with the Canberra comp but if it gets cancelled I daresay we will push hard to get Jeddy back," he said.

"I think he was over the travelling so whether he comes or not I'm not sure.

"A shorter season will help our case to get him back "

While a draw is still being finalised for an eight-round season to begin on July 18, Tumut will start the season with a blockbuster clash against Gundagai.

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