THE Pokolbin Reds are the last men standing in the "Coalfields", as the only team to field a senior men's side in Newcastle Hunter Rugby Union competitions this season.
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The Maitland Blacks, Cessnock Mongrels and East Maitland Eagles have all decided not to enter squads in the 10-round Rams Cup premier and divisional format, which kicks off on July 25.
The Singleton Bulls, however, will take part while Singleton Army Base is expected to boast a presence, too.
The Blacks' junior programs will continue with the club putting emphasis on its under-18s as well as their women's team in a proposed Rugby 10s competition.
Cessnock Mongrels, which has competed in the divisional comp with the Reds, will sit out 2020 and East Maitland, which had planned to return to the field this year after a three-year hiatus, will delay their return for a year.
In their own inimitable style, the Reds - buoyed by a few Singleton players - announced their return with a banner in part proclaiming "No sheep stations on the line here. Just hard tackles, big runs and cold beers".
President Jerome Scarborough said when the NHRU decided to run a Covid-19-compacted competition there was enough interest for the club to sign up.
"It's a 10-round competition with finals after that so there is something to play for," he explained.
"We've got a core of about 14-15 players and are confident of getting the 21 to 22 players you need to field a side each week to allow for injuries and players not available because of work.
"I think after such a tough year everyone is just looking to be able to get out a have a game of rugby and enjoy themselves."
The club returned to training this week and plans to train on Tuesday and Thursday nights, as well as hopefully some weekend sessions before the season kicks offs.
Anyone interested in taking the field can check the Pokolbin Rugby Club Facebook page or phone 0411 041 943