After the longest preseason of all time, the opening round of the 2020 Premier Rugby season is almost upon us and what a season it is shaping up to be.

Ahead of round one we spoke to all nine Premier Rugby clubs, as we’ll continue to do throughout the season, to get the inside word on their preparations for the season ahead.

From the most annoying player in lockdown, to what it takes to win a Hospital Cup and everything in between, we asked each of the nine Premier Rugby coaches 10 burning questions to help get you ready and excited for opening kick off.

Today, we chat to Souths’ coach Todd Dammers.

What’s been the most challenging aspect of the past few months?

Watching the young men & the staff at the club navigate what is a pretty confronting situation in our lives. To watch them have to worry about job security, health and family was tough. We are lucky though, like all clubs that we have this network to fall back on in challenging times.

Which player bugged you the most during lockdown?

I will say Angus Dean. The kid is a workaholic and being in lock down wasn’t doing him any favours.

What parts of your game are you happy with heading into round one?

Our defensive effort is pleasing. We still have plenty to work on, but there has been a shift in our thinking towards how important our defensive intent is to the entire group.

Where do you think you need to improve from last season?

Our fitness and our defence. The parts of the game that are not glamorous but are vital if you want to be successful.

If you could take one part of another Premier Rugby team’s game and add it to yours, what would it be?

UQ’s consistency.

Which players from your club are you most looking forward to watching this season?

To be honest, there are too many to list. I’m looking forward to seeing how every team in every grade plays. Our focus this preseason has been on the club as a whole.

Outside of your club, who is the most dominant player in the competition?

I will go with a favourite of mine – Fred Burke. Tight head prop who has anchored the scrum at GPS for many years. He is in my opinion a very unlucky spectator come Super Rugby time.

What is the key to winning a Hospital Cup premiership?

Fitness, defence, depth & consistency.

Which teams will be the big improvers this season?

Funnily enough, I think UQ. Yes they won the comp and it seems a strange choice but they have had some quality additions to an already strong club. They will be a different animal this season.

Who will you play in this year’s grand final and why?

UQ – for all the reasons stated above.