Tamworth president Mitch Hanlon says the inclusion of a combined Coffs Harbour side for the 2020 New England season is exciting for the Magpies on a couple of fronts.
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Mid North Coast clubs, the Coffs Harbour Snappers and the Southern Cross University Marlins, have joined forces to participate in the competition which commences on July 25.
Both clubs were initially looking to join but New England Rugby were unable to accommodate two extra clubs so they agreed to a joint venture operation making for an eight-club competition.
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An updated draw is set to be released this week but it is anticipated the new club will take the place of the bye, which for the Magpies is on August 22.
"Everyone's excited about filling that bye weekend, and even better Tamworth gains another home game. So we'll be able to put on another game for our spectators and supporters," Hanlon said.
The Magpies are set to kick-off their campaign at home to St Alberts. It is the first of - at this stage - three scheduled home games for the club.
"The other thing is they're another unknown quantity, it's almost a representative side with the two clubs combining to fill their teams," Hanlon added.
At this stage, it hasn't been confirmed which grades the coast teams will participate in but it is envisaged they will field first and second grade sides with potential for a third grade team.
They won't however be fielding a women's sevens team.
The news comes after last year's Central North runners-up Walcha opted to join New England for the 2020 season.
NERU president David Clifton welcomed the additional talent.
"The clubs that are participating in our competition have made the decision to welcome another side for 2020," he said.
"With the current pandemic affecting both Mid North Coast and Central North Rugby Union competitions, it is pleasing for New England Rugby to be able to facilitate more rugby for those looking to play the game."
Mid North Coast Rugby director Paul Butcher was pleased NERU were able to accommodate the clubs.
"We are ecstatic to be able to field a combined side to be included in the NERU comp for 2020," he said.
"It's great thing for Mid North Coast players to be able to join with players from both New England and Central North clubs and get guys playing rugby this year."
