After 3 long years out in the wilderness, the Iluka Cossacks have made a much welcomed return to the Far North Coast Rugby Union Competition in the Presidents Cup. While many thought the Cossacks were gone for good, a staunch band of locals got together and reignited the famous club in the sleepy coastal town. After securing the services of local rugby legend, Kris Thomsen, the committee, then moved quickly and appointed new local Tony Wiseman as coach and past representative player, Nathan Callister as his assistant. Over the past six weeks the Cossacks have slowly been building their numbers and kicked their season off with a strong effort in a trial against Lismore at Lismore two weeks ago. While beaten, there was a simmering confidence building within the playing group. After a torrid first round game against cross river neighbours, Yamba, the Cossacks return home this week for their first home game against the much feared Kyogle. No matter what sport Kyogle participate in they are always a strong opposition and the locals are expecting a tough afternoon at the picturesque sporting fields of Iluka. The Cossacks have developed a forward pack equal to any in the competition and are ably led by accurate line out thrower, Isaiah Mutton. With local diehard Zac Newton and the ageing veteran Rob Wake forming the cornerstone of the scrum, they have solid back up in Pete Duncombe and Glenn Ayres. New to town Dalton Shaw is proving quite a hit as a line out jumper which Iluka has lacked in the past. The backline on the day will play champagne rugby and give the locals plenty to cheer about. Guided around the park by Thomsen, these young guns have plenty of points in them but can they contain their enthusiasm. There is some special talent in the Cossacks backline and supporters will have many a Saturday of enjoyment watching their local legends do the community proud. Saturday afternoon, you can’t go wrong if you’re looking for something to do, then a trip to Iluka to watch a cracking game of rugby. Kick off is at 3pm with plenty of seating and plenty of food and refreshments available. Last but not least can the person or persons who “borrowed” the two goal post uprights please return to the ground, no questions asked. See you there. Tony Wiseman