Hunter will return to lead the men’s side while Cullis will again take their reigns of the Youth Girls’ alongside 2018 co-coach Nita Noble, who is also taking reins for the senior women.

Junior coaches Tim Bylsma and Daniel Bock will take the under 17s and under 14s respectively, while the under 12s will be led by Nathan Totten and Damien Caughlan. 

Cullis said she was “absolutely” looking forward to the chance to defend the side’s title and was excited for season 2019.

She also said the focus would be on keeping the women’s and girls’ sides heavily integrated, with having herself, Noble and forward Emma Clark on the coaching panel for the girls’ – and training held together – hopefully developing continuity between the sides.

That’s already looking to pay off, with Cullis indicating Grace McRae and former best and fairest winner Gemma Gailey were set to move into the women’s side. 

“Grace filled in a few times and Gemma will play well anywhere,” Cullis said. 

However, with several players ageing out of the Youth Girls’, Cullis said the club was on the lookout for more players. 

She said schools going back would hopefully spread the word about Aussie rules, but the club is holding an open day for juniors and women to come and try Australian rules at the end of March. 

Noble said the women’s side – which has already begun pre-season training – was looking “promising” for 2019 and she hoped to bring more players into the fold, stressing no experience or prior fitness was necessary. 

“The ladies at the Orange Tigers club are about building team relationships, learning new skills and having a few laughs together,” she said.

“It's more than just playing football, we work together and support each other whilst having a good time.” 

The session will include a non-contact practice game, some skills work and free barbecue on March 30 from 10am to 1pm at Waratahs. 

Cullis said the open day was a chance to show the sport is a hub for anyone of all fitness levels and ability.

“We joke about it on the track but I’m a nanna and I’m still playing,” Cullis said. 

To register for the day or for further information text Jacqui Harris on 0408 562 506 or contact the Orange Tigers’ Facebook page, although registration is not required.