Rugby writer Tom Decent runs his rule over the contenders ahead of Saturday's kick-off of the 2019 Shute Shield season.
Time to shine: Adrian Musico (Western Sydney), David Vea (Randwick), Guy Porter (Sydney University) and Hamish Angus (Warringah) in The Domain this week.
EASTERN SUBURBS
Coach: Pauli Taumoepeau
Captain: Sam Shires
Last year: 6th
Prediction: 7th
Have a big chance to knock off last seasons champions, Sydney University, in round one. Mack Masons inclusion is a big plus and keep an eye out for Will Harris.
EASTWOOD
Coach: Ben Batger
Captain: Rob Lagudi
Last year: 5th
Prediction: 6th
The Woodies have added some depth to their squad and will be looking to return to the glory days when they won three Shute Shield titles between 2011 and 2015.
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GORDON
Coach: Darren Coleman
Captain: Jordan Goddard
Last year: 11th
Prediction: 8th
Dont back Gordon for the spoon. New coach Darren Coleman has done wonders with Warringah and is confident about turning around the clubs fortunes.
MANLY
Coach: Brian Melrose
Captain: Kotoni Ali
Last year: Semi-finalists
Prediction: 4th
Were just off the pace in the semis last season but all reports are they are a fit bunch and will boast a mobile pack.
NORTHERN SUBURBS
Coach: Nick Hensley
Captain: Hugh Sinclair
Last year: Semi-finalists
Prediction: 2nd
Have been knocking on the door since their 2016 triumph and 2017 grand final loss. New coach Nick Hensley knows what hes talking about.
WESTERN SYDNEY TWO BLUES
Coach: Joel Rivers
Captain: Adrian Musico
Last year: 10th (as Parramatta)
Prediction: 11th
A name change will refresh the club but it could be a long year for them unless they start well. Watch out for speedy winger Hayden Cole.
RANDWICK
Coach: Hadley Jackson
Captain: David Vea
Last year: 9th
Prediction: 5th
Six of Randwicks colts winning team will start in round one and while they will field a young side, its understood the group has never been fitter. Expect a much improved showing.
SOUTHERN DISTRICTS
Coach: Don MacKinnon
Captain: Dewett Roos and Marcus Carbone
Last year: 7th
Prediction: 9th
A mid-table club who could pull a few surprises. Jake Kay has joined souths and faces off against his old club West Harbour on Saturday.
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