THE latest Mid North Coast Rugby Union Northern Division season is set to kick off next weekend, with the opening round of matches played on Saturday, 13 April in Grafton, Kempsey and Port Macquarie.

Both the Coffs Harbour Snappers and SCU Marlins begin their season away from home.

The Snappers travel to take on the Grafton Redmen in the opening round, while the Marlins travel to take on the Kempsey Cannonballs.

Port Macquarie Pirates begin their premiership defence at home when they host the Hastings Valley Vikings.

Coffs Harbour Snappers and SCU Marlins face off in their first local derby of the season in Round 2 at Coffs Rugby Park.

The Marlins play their first home game of the season in Round 3 against the Port Macquarie Pirates at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park.

The Marlins and Snappers face off in their second local derby of the season in Round 7 at Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park, and their third meeting in Round 12 at Coffs Rugby Park.

The Snappers will look to go one better this season after finishing as runners up in 2023.

The Snappers travel to play their grand final rematch against the Port Macquarie Pirates in Round 4.

The Snappers reserve grade side begin their premiership defence at Grafton, when they take on the Grafton Redmen.

By Aiden BURGESS