SOUTH Coast Monaro Second Division rugby gets underway this weekend with local rivals the Cooma Red Devils taking on the defending premiers the Jindabyne Bushpigs in round one at Rotary Oval on Saturday.

The Jindabyne Bushpigs will be searching for the first ever three-peat in the competition's history in 2024.

Last season the Cooma Red Devils had a year of re-building, the club was competitive in many games throughout the season often losing by just a few points.

"Pre-season training has been good seeing most of the boys putting in a big effort," Cooma Red Devils head coach James Quodling said.

"Drawing Jindabyne, last year's premiers in the first round will be a good local hit out and a good indication on how both sides have prepared for the season.”

Senior coach at the Jindabyne Bushpigs Matt Tripet said commencing the season with Cooma is a great way to start the year.

"We know Cooma will bring a lot to the game and it will be a well-attended game," Tripet said.

"We have a healthy rivalry with these boys and it's nice for both clubs to play a local derby with our travelling supporters on board for round one.

"We certainly encourage all the Jindabyne and Cooma supporters to put round one of the rugby season in their calendars and get along to support some quality local rugby."