In recent years the same thing has been said about the Forbes Magpies.
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They're a little slow to start the Group 11 season but always come home like a freight train.
While it can be hugely beneficial - think of the momentum gained on the way to the 2016 and 2018 titles - coach Cameron Greenhalgh doesn't want it to be the same this year.
He wants to be quick off the mark and he's produced one of his most gruelling pre-season programs in order to make that happen.
"We're good and it's been pretty tough. We've left nothing unturned," he said last week.
Greenhalgh will get his first indication on whether his players have responded next week when the Magpies take part in the annual West Wyalong Knockout.
The Magpies have been drawn to play the Young Cherrypickers in the opening round there.
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As well as promising signs on the field, Greenhalgh will also be hoping to avoid any injuries as an extensive casualty list also played into Forbes' slow start last year.
A host of key men - headlined by Mitch Burke and Bailey Hartwig - were ruled out for long periods while boom recruits Brydon Ramien and Josh Toole moved on after just a handful of appearances in the black and white.
Players returned late last year and the side rallied, finishing the regular season in fifth before knocking off fierce rivals Parkes in the elimination semi-final.
Greenhalgh's side was then found wanting in the minor semi-final and was sent packing by a slick Nyngan Tigers outfit.
Pre-season has been a lot more full on.
- Cameron Greenhalgh
While the side overcame its slow start and made finals, the performances were far from what Greenhalgh wanted as often the arm wrestle and momentum lost late in matches.
"It [strong start] was the goal last year and it didn't eventuate. We were in games and then we dropped off," he said.
"Pre-season has been a lot more full on."
New faces at the club have quickly bought into what Greenhalgh wants, with the returning Jake Grace the biggest positive.
The premiership captain is back after a year away from the game, much to the delight of all those in Forbes.
"Having Jake Grace back has been a big thing," Greenhalgh said.
"Not just for me, but for the side. It changes the dynamic."
Mitch Andrews, a member of the 2016 title-winning side, is also back at Forbes after a stint with the Newcastle Knights' lower grades while Greenhalgh would love to see another member of that premiership-winning team back as well.
Greenhalgh's own son, Nick, has been linked with a return to the nest.
His father was hopeful, saying the young halfback who represented the NSW Country under 23s side last season would be just what his side needs, but confirmed no deal was in place yet and the decision was completely up to Nick.
"I'm hoping for a couple more," the coach did say in regards to signings.
"Maybe some local boys and if we get them I think we can give it a fair shake.
"Group 11 is going to be really strong."
The Macquarie Raiders will join Forbes at West Wyalong next week and Alex Ronayne's men have been drawn to play Wagga's South City Bulls first-up.
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Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
