Southern Inland will run a four-team first grade competition with Leeton opting to nominate for second grade instead.
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President John Hill revealed the coronavirus crisis has had a dramatic impact on their player numbers.
Looking to foster a number of younger talent through the club, Hill didn't believe the Phantoms had a viable option for a first grade side this season.
"We probably had 45 people training before this outbreak and now our numbers are about half of that," Hill said.
"People are concerned about COVID or have moved on to do other things."
Hill said the club has a big spread of players from first grade players from last year, those coming up from the under 17s ranks and some veterans.
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Due to dispensation limitations for under 18 players, the Phantoms elected to take a spot in second grade as well as in the women's competition.
Hill believes the Dianas have good numbers after a rebuilding year last season.
"They are looking at having reasonable numbers," he said.
"There has been a lot of interest in the Dianas."
It leaves just premiers Waratahs, Wagga City, CSU and Tumut with first grade sides.
Waratahs co-coach Michael Davis isn't too worried about the situation.
Instead he's just looking forward to being able to play again.
"I think anything at this stage is good," Davis said.
"Obviously you couldn't have two or three (teams) but I think it is great for everyone - players, coaches, sponsors and the whole community.
"Bring it on."
Waratahs are the only club who made finals last season still in the mix.
Numbers have been strong since clubs returned to training however Davis was expected to have a very different line up to last year even before the coronavirus crisis.
"We've got plenty and not only do they want to play but they are really getting around each other and just enjoying being back out and about," he said.
"We've had a bit of a shift in players.
"We've lost a few but have been really lucky with some new players to town."
Draws are expected soon for a July return.
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