Only a week after neighbouring club Muswellbrook Rams named its mentors – Steve Haylan, Gary Jones (firsts), John and Mick Deakin (reserves), Paul Benkovic and Mick Barnes (under-18s), the 2015 champions followed suit with Darren Richards taking the reins of the senior side.

He’ll be supported by Josh Laing, Jeff Drayton and Murray Richards in the Devils’ quest to go back-to-back.

“Darren [Richards] is controlling the first grade team after many years of service as a player,” Denman vice-president Jay Shepherdson said.

“He’s taking on the coaching role with high hopes of another title.

“Josh [Laing] is a local junior.

“He’s played for the club since day one – and is perfect to guide the reserves.

“Jeff [Drayton] returns to the Devils’ fold and will lead the under-18s.

“He’s very positive we’ll have a strong season after not fielding a side last year.

“The club’s under-16s made the grand final in 2015 and, with the addition of several new players, we’ll run out a good team.

“Murray [Richards] will again look after the women’s league tag squad.

“He is keen to build on the combinations the girls started to put in place this season.”

Official training will start on January 12.

If anyone is interested in having a game of touch before Christmas, meet at Denman Oval on Thursday from 6pm.