NEWLY reappointed Osborne coach Joel Mackie believes the Tigers will have an edge over their rivals next season after playing in the AFL Riverina Championship this year.
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He committed to the Tigers as coach for another season over the weekend.
Mackie said the defending premier was well-placed to remain the competition yardstick.
"I've really enjoyed my short time at Osborne so far," Mackie said.
"It was nice that we were able to play some footy this season even though it was only six matches.
"But it was a good experience and I have no doubt that it puts us further in front of the chasing pack who didn't play.
"Especially clubs that will have new coaches next year.
"Just being able to get the group together, a routine being organised and I got a good understanding of the players from a coaching perspective.
"I feel the club is in a really good position for 2021."
IN OTHER NEWS
High profile recruit Elliott Powell alongside Zach Bye and brothers Nick and Ed Perryman will not be at the club next season.
Assistant coach Sam Livingstone will be back after being forced to miss the season due to Victorian coronavirus restrictions.
Dual premiership coach Matt Rava has committed for another season and was outstanding in the early rounds of the AFL Riverina Championship.
In a further bonus, Azzi medallist Jamie Parr will be fully fit for next season after recovering from a torn ACL and being wrapped up in cotton wool this year.
Mackie said he will boast a similar list to pre-COVID-19.
"We appreciate the efforts of those players who crossed over from other clubs to help out at the higher standard," he said.
"Both Ed and Elliott in particular were outstanding and finished one-two in our best and fairest.
"We have already re-signed the rest of the list.
"We get to welcome back Livingstone and Rava is keen to go again.
"We decided not to risk Parr this year so he will be raring to go next year as well."
Mackie said he was doubtful that the Tigers would add any further recruits over the summer.
"I'm extremely happy with the list and we don't have to go chasing recruits," he said.
"We have got some really good kids coming through and our thirds won the flag.
"I believe we boast a lot of depth and are in a really good spot as far as the list is concerned."
Mackie previously co-coached Albury for one season alongside Shaun Daly in 2017.
The 34-year-old said he will only benefit from the experience of coaching this season.
"I learnt a lot this year and feel I will be a better coach again next year," he said.