The Bengalla Hunter Valley Group 21 combatants, each featuring new coaches in 2020, are set to lock horns at Pirtek Park on Sunday, July 19.

And, the Jake Hawkins-led Greyhounds will be keen to kick off the year with a win, especially at the expense of the Liam Foran captain-coached Colts.

"It's going to be interesting," he admitted, as Singleton launched its season before a crowd of 80 people at the Albion Hotel on Friday night.

"Particularly, as it's two Group 21 sides meeting each other in a Newcastle-based comp.

"You don't see that happen every day.

"But, it would be good to secure the early bragging rights [over Greta-Branxton]."

Hawkins believes the Greyhounds are well-placed to make an immediate impact in the new-look, shortened format.

"We've been training strongly since Christmas," he said.

"So, the coronavirus pandemic - and enforced break - was just a speed bump.

"Now, everyone's excited to play.

"And, ready to rip in."

In other first round matches, University MT tackles Thornton MT, West Wallsend MT plays Dora Creek MT, and Maitland United MT goes head-to-head with the Glendale Gorillas MT.

The Greyhounds also line up against the Colts in A grade of the ladies league tag division.

Singleton faces the Morisset Bulls MT in the men's C grade opener, while the under-18s are still waiting for the draw to be finalised.