It's not quite the start Westside wanted in their return to Dubbo and District Football's top flight competition.
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The Panthers are playing first grade for the first time in the "better part of almost a decade", their return coinciding with the club's 40th birthday.
But Macquarie United FC was not throwing them a party on Sunday, thrashing the men in red and green 11-0 at Lady Cutler No 4 Oval.
It was almost the complete opposite result in the women's division, with the Panthers heralding their arrival in first grade with a dominant 10-0 display against the North West Falcons.
Westside treasurer and first grade men's coach Josh Bernard praised his players for holding their own for periods during the game, and acknowledged there would be a steep learning curve.
Just two of the squad - vice-captain Jarred Clark and Brody Caton - have played first grade recently, with the remainder stepping up from third and fourth grade, or playing both under 17s and firsts.
"They're the benchmark," Bernard said of Macquarie.
"There are five other teams in first grade and we play everyone three times so we're going out with the plan that the first time we play everyone is a learning curve because we've never played these teams before.
"So it's about learning how to combat these teams."
The club enjoyed a 25 per cent increase in player numbers compared with 2018, with 350 players registered across 33 teams.
More than half of that growth is in the junior ranks - the club boasts two under 17 teams, three under 15 sides and two under 13 teams.
"Our junior base is as strong as ever," Bernard said.
"For the last four years we've just relied on new players coming to the club ... for the next five years we'll almost have a whole team coming up from under 17s into seniors."
That's why the club pushed to break into first grade this year.
But the plan is "not so much to win", but to secure the club's future, including in first grade and by adding a second grade side.
"We're pumped for this year really, and the vibe through all the seniors is super exciting - regardless of the results each week," Bernard said.
"For the club's growth and junior development, we needed to play first grade this year ... to give them that pathway into seniors.
"Everyone's got the drive this year, not so much to win, but to lay the platform for the years to come."
The anniversary year has also been marked by a revitalised logo and playing strip, while a 40 year reunion dinner is planned for late September. Memorabilia will be showcased as part of the function.
Anyone with any items of interest is encouraged to contact Josh Bernard on 0408 404 080.
