The Glen Innes Elks will now host a round one New England Rugby Union encounter with the zone set to become and eight-club competition.
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On the even of the tournament's start date, NERU have announced the addition of a coastal club which will eliminate the scheduled byes.
Mid North Coast clubs, the Coffs Harbour Snappers and the Southern Cross University Marlins, have joined forces to participate in the New England competition which commences on July 25.
Both clubs were aiming to compete in the 2020 season but New England Rugby were unable to accommodate two extra clubs so they agreed to a joint venture operation.
At this stage, they haven't confirmed which grades the coast teams will participate in but it is envisaged they will field first and second grade sides with potential for a third grade team.
They won't be fielding a women's sevens team.
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The news comes after Central North club, the Walcha Rams, opted to join New England following their competition's cancellation.
"I think it is great," the Elks' men's coach Tom Benton said.
"The more teams in the comp, the better standard of footy we will be playing.
"It is pretty exciting to have what should be a good, strong team in the comp."
When it was announced the Coffs team would join, the Elks put forward their case to host the clash for round one.
Glen is already doing a fair bit of travelling for the size of the season - we are already going to Walcha and we are already going to Tamworth," Benton said.
"We wanted to have them in the comp but we asked if we could have the home game because we are already doing a fair bit of travelling."
NERU president David Clifton welcomed the additional talent.
"The clubs that are participating in our competition have made the decision to welcome another side for 2020. With the current pandemic affecting both Mid North Coast and Central North Rugby Union competitions, it is pleasing for New England Rugby to be able to facilitate more rugby for those looking to play the game," he said.
Mid North Coast Rugby director Paul Butcher was pleased NERU were able to accommodate the clubs.
"We are ecstatic to be able to field a combined side to be included in the NERU comp for 2020," he said.
"It's great thing for Mid North Coast players to be able to join with players from both New England and Central North clubs and get guys playing rugby this year."
The Elks will also host the Armidale Blues this Saturday for trial matches but no spectators will be permitted due. It is expected the Elks will have the correct measures in place to welcome spectators for round one on July 25.