This season teams are made up of three men and three women, with some players sharing a spot.

It seems that many players are unwilling to commit to a full season's tennis, with the competition having 36 players and 36 subs, meaning there is plenty of help at hand if players are unavailable.

The club has announced a new president, with veteran Mick Collins taking the reins for the 2008/2009 season.

Collins is a past club champion and is a respected voice around the clubhouse.

Sam Hoffman was also appointed the new position of junior development officer to go with his standing as club coach.

Hoffman is a science teacher at Ararat College, and has a great rapport with the younger players.

There are also several new players taking to the court for the first time in the pennant competition.

Ben Pietsch has been a very consistent player in the Wednesday night men's competition and will come across for his first season of pennant, while promising youngster Morgan Gason has also matured nicely in the Wednesday competition and will have his first crack on a Saturday.

Returning to the game is past club champion Rod Taylor, who has been a stalwart around the local tennis scene.

There is plenty of interest as to how Taylor will perform, as he plays a clever game and will be a tough match-up for all comers.

On the women's side Annmaree Driscoll returns to fill the top spot in the J Ward team, the hard hitter will be a big asset to her side and provide tough competition for the other leading ladies.

Jo Panther comes across from the Monday night ladies' competition and will be one to watch, while newcomer Jacqui Kiel will also play her first season of pennant.

With the new players entering the competition and others returning there is certain to be plenty of interest around this year's pennant season.

The club held a open day on the weekend to help sharpen the skills before commencing the season this Saturday at 1pm.

See page 28 of today's Ararat Advertiser for teams and draw.