Before kick-off for season 2020, already delayed three months until this weekend because of the coronavirus crisis, Ryan has committed to stay at Townson Oval until the end of next campaign.

The former NRL, NSW and Australian forward took up the role last year after Ben Cross steered Souths to a Newcastle Rugby League premiership in 2018.

"I love it here at Souths and I was always keen to go around again, especially after this year," Ryan said.

"I'm really pumped to get some footy back on now."

Ryan said Souths wouldn't have the services of Brendon Simpson, Luke Higgins and Joe Morris (work commitments) for the new-look, amateur Newcastle RL season.

Lachlan Walmsley, who returned to the Hunter after a year playing NSW Cup for the Rabbitohs, was an uncertain starter.

Premiership-winning playmaker Ryan Glanville and Scott Matthews are back for the Lions while the Bray brothers, Tyler and Rhys, will look to step up from under 19s.

The Merewether-based club has picked up Jack Cameron, Dylan Lucas and Harry Croker from the Knights' lower grades while Daniel Hoogerwerf (Aberdeen), Marshall Sing and Steve Madden (Dubbo) have arrived from elsewhere.

Souths, who originally had the bye in round one, now meet Central at St John Oval on Sunday. Kurri Kurri withdrew from the top tier of open grade over the weekend making it a six-team competition. Macquarie also didn't field a team.

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