Illawarra's Australian football fans will be treated to a mouth watering clash when the revamped season gets under way next Saturday.
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Round one on July 18 will feature a grand final rematch, with reigning premiers Wollongong Lions hosting Figtree Kangaroos at North Dalton Park in the men's premiership competition.
AFL South Coast regional manager Matt Graham said the titanic contest will kick off this year's shortened season, which will consist of 10 rounds and a finals series.
"The Lions will have their flag unveiling... and we thought it would be a good way to start the season," he said. "It will be good to see where both teams are at."
The men's premiership opening round will also see Bomaderry host the Kiama Power while 2019 wooden spooners Shellharbour Suns face Northern Districts Tigers.
Wollongong Bulldogs will receive the first bye.
AFL South Coast has also announced the inaugural round of the women's premier division next Saturday.
Reigning premiers Wollongong Bulldogs will host the Wollongong Saints, Bomaderry tackles Kiama while the Wollongong Lions meet Northern Districts.
"We're a week-and-a-half away [from the season starting]," Graham said.
"There's still a lot to do with a reduced work force, but generally things are on track. We'll probably have a club meeting next week to round out any specific bi-law changes around playing a 10-week home and away season, so finals eligibility adjustments, and COVID-19 requirements."