The Bay women, in particular, will be inspired to reach new heights following the stunning debut of the Port Aussie rules product Lisa Steane for the GWS Giants in Tasmania last weekend.

Nic Griffiths, a 42-year-old former Army officer with a long playing career in both Perth and Sydney, brings a fresh approach as coach of the men's team, which has struggled in recent years in the top-level Black Diamond AFL premiership.

"I will be looking to build a solid group of players with a focus on improvement, cohesion and enjoying the game that we love," said Griffiths, who is preparing for his second season with the Marlins.

"I enjoy the fast flowing attacking style of footy. It is important that the guys buy into the ethos of what we are trying to achieve."

Boasting a mixture of older, more experienced players with a wealth of young talent, Griffiths says he is excited about the season ahead and welcoming some of the newly promoted youngsters into the leadership group.

"I believe in providing our youth with a pathway, where they can learn and adopt a strong culture, which hopefully will flow into our game plan and onto the field."

In another new initiative, Nelson Bay juniors have been participating in pre-season training with the seniors, in the hope it will instil confidence while polishing up on their skill and technique level.

Dean Purtle will back up as the Marlins' ladies coach following a tough 2019, where the team finished mid-table.

"We were low on numbers last season and we learned a lot about resilience. It was very character-building and we hope to recruit more players so we can field a more competitive squad in 2020."

Club president Brendan Jones said that pre-season training numbers had been very encouraging.

"We are looking to attract more juniors and seniors and welcome newcomers wanting to try the game of AFL."

The club trains at Dick Burwell Oval on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5.30pm.