Corowa-Rutherglen star Jarred Lane says the appointment of high-profile coach Peter German has given the club renewed optimism it can finally start climbing out of the doldrums.
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The Roos hit rock bottom from 2015-17 after 37 consecutive losses - the second longest losing streak in league history.
Only Myrtleford - who will start the season as flag favourites - endured a worse run after a winless streak of 67 matches from 2007-10.
The Roos fared only marginally better under coach Marc Almond who led the club to five wins in his two seasons at the helm in 2018-19.
But the appointment of German has sparked a recruiting frenzy at John Foord Oval with the Roos easily being one of the most active clubs in the recruiting stakes.
Headlined by the arrival of Coburg best and fairest winner Tom Goodwin, they have also signed Khyle Docherty, James Svarc, Matt Grantham, Charlie Nastasi and Jason Marks.
Lane praised the hard-working Corowa-Rutherglen committee on the stunning coup of signing German in one of the biggest O&M stories of the year.
"Obviously when you sign a coach the calibre of Peter, it's an enticing proposition for potential recruits to also sign," Lane said.
"That's why you have to commend the recruiting committee and it's good to see them get a bit of reward for all their hard work.
"I've only been able to train a few times due to harvest commitments but my first impression of Peter is just how passionate he is about football.
"He is also demanding and is quick to pull blokes aside for a quick chat if they lower their standards.
"But Peter certainly has an aura about him that commands attention.
"Whenever he speaks, everybody listens."
While Goodwin, Svarc and Nastasi all boast VFL experience, Lane felt the Roos' improved depth would provide the catalyst for them to start climbing the ladder.
"Yes, it's great to land some high-profile signings and it certainly provides a bit of a buzz around the club," he said.
"But we are fully aware a few big signings doesn't guarantee success.
"You still need your locals to put in the hard yards and improve and develop.
"That's been another pleasing aspect of the pre-season so far.
"The local kids have been putting in the work and there is some talent amongst them.
"We have also had a few district players jump on board which also adds to your depth.
"It's no secret we have lacked top end talent as well as depth for probably the past five years.
"So to address both areas is a huge step in the right direction."
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Lane had an immediate impact for the Roos after returning to John Foord Oval in 2019 after a three-year stint at Narrandera from 2016-18 including two as coach.
The versatile tall won the Roos' best and fairest to enhance his growing reputation.
The 28-year-old was also a triple best and fairest winner with Narrandera and Riverina league medalist in 2018.
