Only four clubs remain in the first grade draw, with more in the second grade and women's competition.

Of them only Waratahs, who have a very different line up, made finals last year.

No matter how the characters have changed, the show goes on and it sets up an intriguing season where clubs will see plenty of each other.

Coach: Paul Hood (second season)

Last season: Last

Key gains: Napolioni Masirewa, Waisale Nayavulagilagi, Luke Seruwaqa, Gino Suriani

Key loss: Oliver Telfer

What the coach says: We will be a lot better side than what we've been in the last few years. Our numbers are strong and we've got some good quality players. Whether we can get them all on the park at the same time and get them to gel is another factor but we are working hard on that at the moment. We're just going to be a lot more competitive for the whole season and I think we'll surprise a few sides at times.

What we say: The only way is up for CSU after another poor year but the signs are there they can finally start to turn it around. A big boost in numbers will be the key to their success this season. It is a shame they've got some few rivals but 2020 could be an essential year to ensure the club's viability. Just how well they will perform is hard to gauge but I'm expecting Reddies to be a hell of a lot more competitive.

Prediction: Third

Coach: Jonathan Hulks (first season)

Last year: Seventh

Key gains: Philip Shaw, Wami Shaw, Iosefo Morisi

Key loss: Stephen Gill

What the coach says: We've got no over the top expectations and I just want the boys to put in an effort and play for themselves this year with everything that has gone on. It is still a competition but in my eyes it is a competition for the players not for the clubs.

What we say: Never to be underestimated, especially at home the Bulls have to stack up against their Wagga rivals and depth could be a concern. They just couldn't get things rolling last year and have a similar side this time around. A lot will lie on Harrison Friswell as he returns from a knee injury but it could be a tough year in the hills.

Prediction: Last

Coach: Ben Schreiber (first season)

Last year: Fifth

Key gains: Ben Schreiber, Peter Little, Ritchie Herangi, Noa Rabici, Darryl Hemopo

Key loss: James Curgenven

What the coach says: It's going to be interesting what is going on around the country but it is a positive we've got the opportunity to play rugby in some fashion. It is really good to see the boy's attitude - it is unreal - and we have a good core group of players. We're really excited.

What we say: Little turnover is a big positive for the club who narrowly missed a finals berth. The addition of new talent could be another big boost to what is already a pretty settled side. How they adjust will be a query but it could be just what the club needs to rise to the top.

Prediction: Second

Coaches: Angus Stevenson and Michael Davis (second season)

Last year: Premiers

Key gains: Sam Palmer, Reece Bredin, Josh Gemmell, Tom Green, Sam Carwdine, Rob Selosse, Michael Salvi

Key losses: Tim Corcoran, Sam Bunny, Xavier Chigwidden, Sam Hobbs, Dan Selmes, Blake Hart, Callum Ramm, Jock Munro, Chris Muray, James Daley, Harry Hosegood

What the coach says: (Stevenson) With all the players moving around it is a very new look and the changing nature of the competition and the changing nature of the team I'm just excited by the prospect of being able to play. In terms of our potential it looks good on the training paddock but whether it translates I don't know. It is great to work with a different group of guys who have been energetic and supportive throughout all this.

What we say: Waratahs seem to always be setting the pace, or just sitting off it, and it would be a brave call to back against them. They've lost plenty of experience but have man to find plenty of new talent to fill their boots. Success breeds success and the club's depth can help springboard a new future.

Prediction: Premiers

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