Former captain Josh Romein has rejoined the Reds this year and will add some much-needed experience to the side that was cruelly relegated from the National Premier League Victoria last year.

Ballarat will this year compete in the NPLV1 competition, with the season starting on Saturday night. In what is guaranteed to be a hectic season, they will play 28 matches in the NPLV1 and, depending on how far they can progress in the FFA Cup, could play upwards of 35 games for the year.

Romein, who joins his brothers Aaron and Shaun at the club, comes back to Ballarat after playing for Bendigo in the NPLV1 last year.

He has played 188 games and scored 49 goals for the club, leading in both statistics ahead of the current McDonald’s Reds players.

The defender will be familiar with many faces at the club this year, having played with at least 13 of the squad in the past.

However, the club has lost a raft of key players over the off-season.

Released from the club at the end of the season were forwards Deng Aguek and Paul Harvey, along with defender Steven Thompson. 

Sean Harding moved to New Zealand and then back to Ireland, while goalkeeper Jordan Franken returned to Perth Glory.

Danny O’Donnell also returned to the UK last month after previously looking likely to play on in 2015.

Reds chairman Duncan Smith said the focus had shifted towards developing Ballarat players. “Every NPLV or NPLV1 club is allowed two visa spots but, as of right now, we decided that we would put our faith in young Ballarat players and I’m sure that they will give a good account of themselves.”

The captain and leadership group will be announced on Thursday night, before kickoff against Sunshine George Cross at Morshead Park at 7.15pm on Saturday.

patrick.nolan@fairfaxmedia.com.au