THE game they play in heaven is set for another big year of rucks and mauls, with the Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern division season getting underway this weekend.

SCU Marlins kick off their season at home when they host the Kempsey Cannonballs at Coffs Coast Sport & Leisure Park.

The Marlins were one win from a grand final appearance last season, going down to the Port Macquarie Pirates in the preliminary final.

Coffs Harbour Snappers and Bowraville Goannas reserve grade sides get their season underway when they play off in Bowraville this weekend.

The Hastings Valley Vikings begin their premiership defence at home when they take on the Port Macquarie Pirates in their grand final rematch at Oxley Oval.

The two teams played off in a grand final for the ages last season, with the Vikings prevailing 36-34 in the 87th minute.

Coffs Harbour Snappers first grade side begin their season at home against the Hastings Valley Vikings in Round 2.

The Snappers were knocked out in the first week of last season’s finals series.

The Coffs Harbour Snappers women begin their premiership defence at home in Round 2, when they host the Hastings Valley Helgas.

The Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern division junior season also gets underway

By Aiden BURGESS