The Barbarians flourished in Centennial Coal Cup last year under captain-coach Mitchell Britt, narrowly missing out on playing finals football.

Britt has not returned the role for season 2014, and has been replaced by former CYMS back-rower Jason McClymont.

Despite having no previous coaching experience, McClymont is confident he can do the job.

“Britty did a good job last year, and I’m really just hoping to help the guys build on that,” he explained.

“Coaching is a new challenge for me. I’ve got plenty of mates at Barbarians, and they did pretty well last year. My personal goal is to play semi-finals football, but we need to make sure we keep on developing.”

Barbarians committeeman Barney Essam said Britt would be a loss, but explained McClymont would fill the void well.

“Britty had a great influence on the club last year, and we will miss him,” Essam said.

“We aren’t sure about what he’s doing playing wise, but he doesn’t want to continue on as coach. He helped us to our best club result last year, and we’re hoping Jase can build on the results, and talent we’ve got in the club now.”

Essam said player recruitment could determine his club’s success. 

“We had a good group last year,” he said.

“Even though it looks like we’ll lose a couple of players, we’re also expecting to pick up a couple during pre-season. 

“We see our club as a way for guys who might want a new challenge, or are only getting a run in reggies [reserves] at other clubs to play more of a role at a new club. With the rep games we have at the start of the season it’s a good way for blokes to play some decent football. 

“With the salary cap in place now it’s tough to gain a whole lot of top-name players, but we’re hoping we can hold onto our current talent, and maybe pick up a few older heads, or more experienced players from other clubs looking for a new challenge.”

The Barbarians’ pre-season has begun, with the club training on Friday nights at Max Stewart Oval at 6pm.