Last year the Worimi Dolphins' under-17 side were "30 seconds away" from a run in the grand final, losing in the preliminary decider to the Central Coast Pelicans by one point.

The men's team did not fare as well, going down early in the knockout.

"We build on performance every year," Worimi Dolphins coach Justin Ridgway said.

"We hope to go one step further this year."

This year's men's side first played together as a team only two weeks ago at the Kids in Care Cup.

Only about three players have returned from last year's knockout team, but another two who played with the under-17 side in the 2013 tournament have moved up to this year's men's team.

Players hail from right across the Worimi Nation, some coming from as far as Forster.

The under-17 side was to travel to Forster on Tuesday to train with the players who would slip on the Dolphins jersey this weekend with them.

"Koori boys bond well together," under-17 manager Peter Kafer said.

"They should play well together."

Each division, from under-12s through to men's, is expected to have 16 teams.

Games will be two, 20-minute halves and the draw is to be available at Raymond Terrace Bowling Club today, Thursday.