That’s the tone that filtered through the phone in an interview with Shane Rampling, charged with mentoring Boggabri as they step up to first grade this season and test themselves in Group 4’s dramatically revamped premier competition.

Nine months earlier, Gunnedah-based Rampling was in a completely different headspace as he oversaw South West Robins’ horror season. He had spoken about the dominance of the “richest clubs” and the “big hole” the competition was in.

Now his sentences are underpinned by optimism, both for the club he coaches and the competition he will play in when Boggabri host Kootingal-Moonbi in the opening round on April 28.

The veteran mentor, who coached the Bulldogs to the 2014 grand final, rode highs and lows during his three-year stint at the Robins (formally the West Tamworth Lions), and perhaps he has emerged from the experience with no lasting mental scars.

“I enjoyed my time at Wests, I really did,” he said. 

“It’s just a shame it went the way it did … [But] I wish them all the best. I’ve still got good friendships there.”

Boggabri and Kootingal-Moonbi are among the five clubs from the defunct second division competition to be elevated to first grade this season – the others being Bendemeer, Dungowan and Werris Creek. 

Rampling said: “I know it is a big step for us at Boggy. It’s a small-community club never run in first division. 

“But we’re embracing the challenge and we’re looking forward to it.”

He said the aim was to build on this year by promoting under-18 Kangaroos to top grade in the coming seasons.

Boggabri have welcomed back this season Kyle Gallen, who had played in Coffs Harbour, and Sam Pryor, who had been in the Army.

Players who have come with him from South West include Shannon Nean, Corey Nean and Darren Nean.

Another new signing is back-rower Nathan Miller.

The Kangaroos have lost Brad Hamilton and Bobby Jones, with both men leaving the area.

“I’m trying to bring in more players to cover the depth,” Rampling said. 

“At the moment we probably need another two or three players to fill the depth area.

“We've got a lot of good kids … We’ve got a good forward pack. We’re just probably a bit light on for outside backs at the moment.”

He added: “As long as we’re competitive and put out 17 each week, I’ll be happy.”

Under the revamp, first grade has gone from six teams in 2017 to eight now. The Robins and Wee Waa, who badly struggled in 2017, will not field top-grade sides in 2018, while Collegian folded.

Rampling said: “I think it will be an exciting competition. I think it will be pretty competitive.”