After making their debut in the competition last year, the Deniliquin Blue Heelers have been included in both the men’s and women’s draws.
But if the club cannot meet its women’s team obligations, the men may also have to withdraw from the season.
Newly elected president Rachael Parry said work to secure this commitment is ongoing.
“We don’t have a full women’s team yet, but that’s our top priority.”
To ensure the Blue Heelers can continue in 2026, males and females 16 years and older who are interested in playing are invited to make contact and participate in preseason training.
Training begins next Thursday evening, January 15, at Deniliquin Rotary Park from 6.30pm.
Parry’s election as club president ushers in a renewed momentum for the Blue Heelers, who also have a new-look logo, and a refreshed Facebook page.
It also makes Proten Cup history, with Parry the first female president of all competition clubs.
Parry said the newly released draw presents valuable opportunities for growth.
“It should be good, we’ll get the chance to understand our opposition and learn and grow as a team,” she said.
With six teams competing across six rounds, each side will face every opponent once and double up against one team.
For the Heelers, that means a second meeting with their round one rivals, the Barrellan Rams, in round four.
Adding to the anticipation, the season will officially kick off with the Proten Cup Knockout on May 23 in Goolgowi.
The season proper begins on May 30, with finals set down for three weeks starting July 18.
The Heelers picked up their first-ever points in last year’s knockout, an encouraging sign that a maiden win may be within reach this time around.
36°C