In an attempt to go one step further this season, they have added some serious firepower, in the shape of electric half Cam Vazzoler.

The now 22-year-old was a key component to the Kiama Knights' drought breaking premiership in 2019, after being named man of the match in the grand final win against Jamberoo.

But Matt Clarke's troops fell short of their goal of defending their crown in the 2020 COVID-19 affected campaign.

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"It was a challenging year for all teams last year and we weren't any different," Vazzoler, who spent five years at Kiama (four in first grade and one in under 18s), said.

"Although I feel as we could had gone a lot further, considering all the injuries and the pressure of being defending premiers, I still count last season as a positive one."

Little did the 2018 Michael Cronin Medallist know his Knights' loss to Jamberoo in the second week of the finals would prove to be his last for the Kiama Showground-based club, as he recently decided to join the Warilla-Lake South Gorillas for 2021.

"It was an extremely hard decision and one I'd been thinking about for a while," Vazzoler, who also won an under 18s premiership with Kiama in 2016, said.

"Although I have made some great friends and memories I'll cherish forever at Kiama, who have been super welcoming since I walked in the door, I've always wanted to play footy with my mates I have grown up with.

"Until now, I wasn't able to do that as they have always been a year below me.

"The timing just felt right to make the move and join the Gorillas."

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In joining the Cec Glenhomes Oval-based club, Vazzoler will team up with Blair Grant, Jake Brisbane and Justin Jones in a tantalising spine.

"Having the chance to play with players such as Blair and Brisso, really excites me," Vazzoler, who also spent time at Albion Park-Oak Flats and the Stingrays as a junior, said.

"Obviously we are all still very young and still learning the game but hopefully throughout the year we can build some solid combinations, which will help the team succeed and achieve our ultimate goal, which is a premiership.

"The boys went close last year and if I can come in, continue to improve and put my best foot forward week in, week out, I'm confident we can bring the title back to Warilla this season."

Joining Vazzoler as key additions to the Gorillas squad for 2021 are fellow Kiama Knight Tom Harris and returning forwards Aaron Henry and Lloyd Thomas.