The Rams have been back on the training paddock for a couple of weeks, with some new and returning faces to bolster the ranks and a goal of building on the platform that was laid last season.

The seconds headed the Rams’ 2009 charge, making the minor semi-final where they were disappointingly beaten in extra-time.

This season the club is hoping to be fielding a full complement – first grade, second grade, U19s and U17s – for the first time in a few seasons.

The U17s has been where they have lacked the junior numbers in recent years but they have been working hard to address that, with first grade coach Ken Philipson conducting sessions at Barraba Central School.

They will be providing the core of the U17s team.

Philipson is returning at the first grade helm and is hoping to improve on their eighth finish last season.

“Our goal for the year is to be above mid-table,” he said.

He said there would be a different feeling to training this year – less regimented – having started with the basics last year.

“At the start of last year we had to improve 200 per cent to compete with the top teams. We improved 70,” he said.

“We’ll play a lot different (this season) now I know who the players are and what they are capable of.”

Barraba has long been a trip visiting sides have dreaded, and another goal this season is to turn Barraba into a graveyard for teams.

“Whilst we’ve lost a couple, we’ve gained a few,” Philipson said.

The losses include White brothers Luke and Beau, who have opted to play league this season, although father and stalwart Geoff will be coaching second grade again.

“They’ll be a loss no doubt, but we’ve had a couple of other new players turn up and a couple of backs to compensate,” Philipson said.

Tom Capel is also back from overseas.

Anyone interested in playing not already signed up would be more than welcome, Philipson said.

The Rams train Tuesday and Thursday nights.

On Thursdays they offer a bus service from Tamworth out to Barraba for training.

Those needing transport should contact Albert Capel at Westpac Bank in Tamworth or coach Philipson on (67821175).

Their first hit-out will be at Currumbin later this month with a trial against Port Macquarie also set down for early March, ready to kick off their season away against grand finalists Narrabri in April.