Mitchell had a stellar debut season in the NRL despite the Roosters disappointing campaign. He was a finalist in the Dally M Rookie of the Year announced this week. Playing fullback or on the wing Mitchell was also the Roosters leading try scorer with 14.

Elder brother Shaq is also in the club’s system. A front rower he will add muscle to the Sharks park. Both started playing rugby league in the Group Three juniors with Taree Red Rovers. Lionel, the youngest brother, is a second rower who played under 18s with Old Bar in the Group Three competition while he was also drafted into the reserve grade squad, playing in the grand final.

Biripi manager Ralph Saunders said Latrell confirmed this week he’ll be right for this weekend in what he said is a ‘massive boost’ to the side’s chances advancing deep into the knockout.

The Sharks have been training under coach Shane Glass since players finalised commitments in the Group Three competition.

Port City lock Adrian Daley is a sure starter. He’s fresh from a premiership win in Group Three with the Breakers this year. Group Three representative Thomas Dooker is another starter as is Forster-Tuncurry lock Chris ‘Backhoe’ Simon.

The Sharks were beaten in the second round last year after downing Castlereagh Warriors in the opening match.

“I think this year’s side is the best we’ve had for a few seasons,’’ Mr Saunders said.

“Most of the 2015 team will be back and they’ll be better for the experience.’’

He described knockout football as ‘fast and furious.’

The Sharks will play Dunghutti/Belbrooke United in the opening round on Saturday. The knockout is just that – beaten teams are out of contention.

Mr Saunders said the Sharks will have added incentive to perform strongly this year as they will dedicate their performance to the memory of Dennis Bungie – a regular member of the team for many seasons – who passed away earlier this year.