After guiding the Port City Breakers to their maiden Group 3 title in 2008, the duo will take over the coaching reins again next year.

“Quite simply, we missed it a little bit,” Sprague told the Port News during the week.

“And, although Dan (Dumas) did a great job this season, taking the first grade outfit to the grand final, we thought we’d have another crack at it.

“The same crew, which tasted glory just over 12 months ago, is helping us out once more.”

Sprague is confident the bulk of the 2009 squad will be back on deck.

“At this stage, we’ve only lost Josh Hyde to Batemans Bay while Brett Fraser is considering his future after becoming a dad,” he said.

“Russell Gordon’s staying put, as are Adam Atkins, Glen Littler, Daniel (Dumas), Tristram Morris, Mitch Fowler, Mitch Jackson, Dane Dickson, Jason Jones and Adrian Daley jnr.

“We’ve also signed former Port Macquarie Shark Bleu Tamatoa to boost our forward stocks.

“So, already, we have a strong nucleus, with more talented juniors coming through.

“There is plenty of depth in the club – and it’s a good position to be in.”

Even though the Breakers have contested the past three grand finals, Sprague has no illusions about the journey before him.

“We’ll just do the best we can,” he admitted.

“We will get the boys fit and then go from there.

“With a bit of luck, we might have a good year.”

The Breakers hit the pre-season training track on Tuesday, January 19.

In the meantime, the club will host a Christmas barbecue at McInherney Park on Sunday from 11am.

All players, supporters and sponsors, along with their families, are invited to mingle with the Breakers.