THEY'RE the 10 time champions, however, Chatham has claimed underdog status for tomorrow's Manning division one men's hockey grand final against Sharks.
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In fact, coach Stuart Ferguson has described the Wolves as 'massive underdogs.'
"We've lost seven of last year's team,'' he explained.
"It's virtually a new side.''
Ferguson said doubts about whether the season would proceed because of COVID-19 protocols and then concerns about a shortened competition were the main reasons for the drop off in players.
He admits there's also been problems maintaining enthusiasm in the three-team competition.
"We're in the grand final now, that should be all the motivation we need,'' he added.
Ferguson said the main priority will be containing Sharks' Wade Harry, who switched from Chatham to Sharks after last season's grand final win.
"Wade's the best player in the Manning Valley,'' he said.
"One minute he's organising the defence, the next he's scoring a goal.''
Ferguson agreed there's still big match experience in the squad. Three players, captain Adam Birkefeld, Matt Doherty and Dylan Turner have been in the Chatham lineup for all 10 premiership wins. Birkefeld has moved up to striker for this season.
"We lacked a striker so Adam's slotted in there. He's also a calming influence on the younger blokes,'' Ferguson said.
He added that 17-year-old goal keeper Ryan Doherty has been consistent all season for Chatham while Gus Johnson is another who shows potential.
