Beaten into fourth place last season, the Raiders are shaping up nicely according to Edwards, a coach with a vast knowledge of the game in junior and senior levels.

The Edwards family is steeped in rugby league history with its involvement in the Macquarie club and Greg I believe never played reserve grade with the Raiders, going straight from under 18s to first grade.

He has also coached with the Raiders and Westside clubs and in more recent years had built a name for himself in junior representative coaching and selection committees and as a coach with the academy league program.

He will also be this year's Western Region Under 18s coach.

"First signs are always good and if the pre-Christmas training roll-up is any indication then we looking forward to a good season - all three grades," Edwards said.

"Both first and reserve grades were beaten by CYMS in the grand finals but there wasn't alot in either games and the players involved who are going around again this year are determined to get it right this time around.

"As far as the under 18s are concerned we have had a few go up to seniors and have a number coming up from under 16s."

Edwards said one of his best trainers thus far has been the talented utility back-rower Brody Chapman.

"Unfortunately Brody last year had to have a major knee reconstruction but all seems well now and he's really putting in," Edwards said.

"He is a highly talented young player who can fit in anywhere at lock or second-row and will be one our go ahead players in the forwards.

"Kids like Anthony Egan-Smith, Jake Josephs, Laurence Fogg, Kurt Fuller and Dave Nicholls will also be important for our chances.

"Numbers wise we are looking good and as a result it won't be easy trying to pick a side when the season gets underway."

Raiders coaches, Jim Kelly (1st grade), John Croft and Brett Warwick (reserves) and Edwards didn't hold back in their pre-season programs and now after the break, it will be much the same.

The Raiders are doing their pre-season training at South Dubbo Oval in Boundary Road each Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6pm.