The Hawks have arguably the toughest opening fortnight of the competition starting with defending champions Hanwood in Wagga on Sunday, before they travel to Leeton United next week.

Elphick, who takes over in a coaching-only role from Matt Menser after his move to Wagga City Wanderers, rates Leeton United as the benchmark on paper this season.

He hopes getting the best sides early will not only give them a good indication of where his new-look squad is placed, but they may play them before they click given every team's limited training preparation.

"I think throw the harder teams at us early, because like us they're getting warmed up for the season," Elphick said.

"Getting the top end teams first is hopefully going to play in our favour, because after that we're in a rhythm and we can start to get going.

They (Hanwood) are going to be a tough team and be ready to go. They're pretty structured and the last couple of training sessions we've been working pretty hard on what we need to do to keep them in check."

The Hawks have also welcomed back Jake Ploenges to the club after his stint with the Wanderers, and Elphick expects plenty of young talent to step up headlined by the promising Harry Trevaskis and Nick Unwin.

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