The Lions have struggled for numbers and won't take in a 2021 season which will see Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and Collingullie-Glenfield Park unveil women's sides for the first time.

Team nominations closed on Friday, with Charles Sturt University, North Wagga, Narrandera, East Wagga-Kooringal, Griffith and Brookdale all confirming they will return.

The seven-round regular season will be played on Friday nights, beginning on February 12, with finals night set down for Easter Thursday.

Coronavirus ruined any hope of a grand final being held last year, and AFL Riverina football operations coordinator Tom Walker said the growth of the competition despite the obstacles of 2020 is encouraging.

"It's a strong result considering everything that's happened over the last 12 months," he said.

"We were always pretty optimistic we'd get strong numbers. Clubs have said they've been looking towards building a female team, we're seeing some of the fruits of that labour this year and hopefully we continue to see that growth in the next couple of years.

"Other teams are keen to do the groundwork now, and make sure they have their ducks in a row before they nominate a team going forward.

"We'll have a draft draw out to clubs by the end of the week to get the ball rolling."

The Lions will be coached by Tania Lenon and Luke Walsh, with the club reporting very strong numbers for their opening training sessions, while Matt Geppert and Jackson Sanbrook will coach Collingullie-Glenfield Park.

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