Sydney Uni outlasted Gordon in last year's grand final to claim their third Shute Shield premiership in five seasons.

Coach Sean Hedger left after that victory to return to his family in Far North NSW and 15 players from last year's top squad have also either retired or moved on to higher honours.

It's a serious challenge for returning coach Damien Hill to overcome, but if any club can do it, it's probably Sydney Uni.

Overview with Damien Hill:

“We’ve got lots of fresh faces at the club. Lots of young kids pushing up from colts and a lot of really talented second and third graders who are looking to earn a spot in first grade,” Uni coach Damien Hill told Rugby News.

“Like last year, there’s a lot of change. But if you have the mindset that we are a development club and part of our role is to help prepare players to take the next step in their careers, then it’s great when you see it happen.