Before the 2020 Heathcote District League season was cancelled, the Cats went on a recruiting spree which had many tipping them as the premiership favourites.
Collins was among several players who joined or returned from Eaglehawk including Jesse Collins, Trent Bacon, Ben McPhee, James McPhee and Lachlan Atherton.
Meanwhile Liam Wilkinson also crossed from the Goulburn Valley League.
And Collins remains hopeful that group will go around again.
“As far as retention goes, I've spoken to a lot of the list already and at this stage they are staying on,” Collins told Australian Community Media.
“I'd expect at least 95 per cent of the list looks like it will stick around and have a kick again next year.”
Despite last year’s recruiting spree, Collins hinted there could be more arrivals ahead of 2021.
“We've still got some scope to go out and recruit again and we'll keep our options open, but in saying that, there was a lot who thought this was a list that could have gone a long way this year,” he said.
“We think the list we have is already strong and first and foremost is looking after the guys who have been loyal to the club.”
Rival HDFNL clubs have already started to recruit for next season and Collins said he hoped it helped to improve the standard of the competition.
“There has been a lot going on by the looks of it and no doubt there's some good players coming into the league, but I'm comfortable with the list we've got at the club,” he said.
“I've grown up with 90 per cent of our guys and know what they're capable of. As coach I'll be trying to get the best out of all the guys.”
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