The intensity might be building up this time of year, but the unity and support within the Dubbo CYMS club is also strengthening.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
That's the view of the Fishies' league tag captain Nic Grose, with her side one of three from the club collecting minor premierships in 2019.
The powerhouse club endured some off-season change - Mick Fraser and Jarryn Powyer taking over the president and first grade coaching roles respectively the major ones - but that hasn't had any major affect on results.
CYMS finished top in first grade, juniors, and league tag while the reserve grade outfit finished its campaign in second.
The club is now perfectly-placed to enjoy more premiership success, having contested 11 of the 16 grand finals played across all grades in the past four years.
"It's testament to the club and it's great to be a part of. It's quality stuff," Grose said.
"Particularly at finals time everyone gets behind you.
"When we won the minor premiership at Parkes the Old Boys' president came in and said well done and the president did too.
"Everyone has your back and other clubs might be like that but I've never been a part of any other rugby league club.
"There's a great sense of pride and when you start getting closer you see more spectators and supporters out congratulating you and having a chat."
READ ALSO:
All three of CYMS' minor premiers have been rewarded with a weekend off and will next play at home in the major semi-finals on August 25.
The club's reserve grade side will be in action at Wellington this weekend against Forbes in the qualifying semi-final.
Given the club had the bye last week following the expulsion of Dubbo Westside, the three minor premiership-wining sides will not play for two weeks.
"It's probably not ideal but it is what it is," said Grose.
"We've just been stepping up in training and playing games against each other more and stepping the fitness up too.
"There was lots, like me, who had some time with holidays and things like that so the fitness lulls a bit but we're back on game-pace and we're ready now."
Grose's league tag side hasn't been beaten yet this season.
They will take on either Parkes or Forbes in the major semi-final at Apex Oval.
The regular season success means CYMS is again set to collect the Group 11 Club Championship prize at this year's presentation night.