It has been four years since the Country Championships were moved to the under 23s but once more the representative format will be open to all.

Gundagai's Luke Berkrey has been installed as coach and is thrilled from the early feedback from players.

"The response has been incredible," Berkrey said.

"Almost everyone I have spoken to is really excited and keen to play.

"It is a really good sign."

Berkrey is a big fan of the return of open representative football, especially in the current timeslot.

Riverina are drawn to tackle GSR Tigers in Camden on February 28 before a tough trip to face Illawarra the following week.

With the Group Nine season not starting until April 10, players won't be required to choose to play for either their club or Riverina and won't have to back up as well.

"I think it is a great move," he said.

"It gives the guys who are that little older a bit of a carrot to play rep footy and potentially earn some higher honours.

"I think it is a great thing it is at the start of the year and not in the middle of the year pulling players away from their club sides.

"It's actually when you are going to get some good games in and are probably going to help your club side when you go back as you are going to be a step ahead after a few games."

It comes as AFL Riverina competitions continue to move away from the representative arena.

Berkrey will lead the side with the likes of Weissel Medal winners James Luff, James Smart and Zac Masters already committing.

The likes of Ben Jeffery, Dane O'Hehir, Cody Hodge and Jake Goodwin are also on board.

"The side will be a really, really good side," he said.

"There are a lot of good players interested."

Berkrey is still looking for players to commit with plans to have a couple of training sessions in the lead up to the two weekends away.

Andrew Hinchcliffe has been installed as the women's coach as the region explores options for a tackle competition.

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