Foundation laid as Ballarat City FC looks to build in NPL3

Despite this, there is a positive feeling among the players and staff, with new manager Harry Bingham to lead the side on an exciting new journey.

"The team is refreshed, it survived (in NPL3) by the skin of its teeth last year and to rectify that you have to do something, so change was needed and that is what we're trying to bring about," Bingham said.

"It is vital that Ballarat stays in the best competition it can so that it keeps opportunities alive for younger players in the community to aspire to playing a higher level of football."

City FC lost its player-manager Michael Trigger along with big-name players Dom Swinton and Pat Karras, but it has opened the door for talented youth to show what they are capable of.

"It will be the youngest team in the competition, the practice matches have been good chances to give the younger players opportunities and they're progressing nicely," Bingham said.

"I'm confident if we can maintain our status in the competition then we will eventually be able to challenge for promotion because of the youth coming through."

As City FC enters a new era, it does so with a new coach, with well-travelled Bingham at the helm.

Last season, Bingham worked for Heidelberg United FC, one of the strongest NPL-level organisations in Victoria, as Junior Boys Technical Director.

"I'm really looking forward to the season, we're not afraid," Bingham said.

"There will be enormous challenges, you don't just flick the switch overnight but the assets are there and we've done the work that needs to be done."

Ballarat City FC kicks off its NPL3 season on the road, with a trip to Nunawading on Saturday.