Dave Toulson has been appointed first grade mentor, with Chris Barlow taking on the reserves.

Both will be supported by assistant Jonathon Toombs and director of coaching Phil Cook.

The club returns to the training paddock tomorrow, from 6pm, at Macquarie Park.

“We have a number of pre-season games planned with Cardiff, Broadmeadow Magic, Maitland and Adamstown all looking to play us over the coming months,” Cook said.

“We’re also nominated to contest the State Cup, which is an FA Cup-style knockout competition taking in Newcastle, Central West, North Coast and Far Mid-North Coast.

“This, along with the Port United and Forster six-a-side tournaments, will give the coaching staff plenty of work to do before the 2010 Premier League kicks off.”

Toulson is looking forward to the start of the season after being away from the game for a couple of years.

“Dave coached a number of local sides, both junior league and senior level, following his move to Port Macquarie almost a decade ago,” Cook admitted.

“Prior to this, he worked in Sydney with the Northern Spirit and Parramatta Melita youth teams.

“Reserve grade is in the capable hands of Chris (Barlow), who has been involved with the Saturday men’s outfit and over 35 six-a-side squad over the past few seasons.

“He’s keen to try his hand at a higher level.

“Jonathon (Toombs) is back on board in 2010 as an assistant coach for both Dave and Chris following a year in Newcastle.

“He’s hoping to use this role as a springboard into a coaching career down the track.

“I’m in a support position, and managing the firsts, this year due to work commitments.

“It’s great to have a quality group on deck.

“We’ve got a number of new players coming along and, with a large contingent of last year’s squad returning, we should be in good shape for 2010.

“Everyone is invited to attend training on Thursday nights, from 6, at Macquarie Park until the end of January.

“Then, from the first Tuesday in February, it’s every Tuesday and Thursday evening.”

Any players or newcomers who need information can contact Phil Cook on 0425 222 945 or Steve Pincham on 0419 208 529.