The Ostriches will be underdogs in their round one AFL Riverina Championship clash with defending Riverina League champions Wagga Tigers at Robertson Oval on Saturday.

The competition newcomers have named a young and local side for the season opener, after the club adhered to a strong recommendation from AFL Riverina to not field any Albury-based players or coaches.

Galvin said they want to prove they can be competitive against Riverina League opposition in the whirlwind six-team, six-round competition.

"We're keen to just get into the league and show what we've got coming across from the Hume League," Galvin said.

"Without our coach (Albury-based Joel Mackie) and a couple of our assistants, it's going to be a good opportunity for our boys to step up and really grow into those leadership roles.

"We want to do Osborne proud, but we also want to show that the Hume league teams are capable of playing some pretty good footy.

"We don't want our colours lowered, we at least want to create a contest each week and give the league a good name.

"The Tigers have obviously got a very good side and are really quick, from what I've heard. We'll have our work cut out for us."

Galvin has had opportunities in the past to sign for a Riverina League club, but says he's content to continue learning under Mackie.

"At this stage Osborne's in a good patch with a good bunch of blokes. Especially under Joel I'm happy at the moment to stay here, that's for sure," he said.

"We've lost a bit of leadership with some of the blokes not being able to come over from Albury, but we should be able to put a half decent side on the park and give the other sides a run for their money."

READ MORE