The Blues clash with Macksville at Lank Bain Sports Complex will provide Boyd with an opportunity to see who could fill "a fair few spots" that were up for grabs for their Group 3 season opener on April 6.

"We'll have a fair few of the young kids that will run around," he said.

"The old boys won't play too much, but there are a few spots up for grabs so I want to see who wants it the most."

Boyd admitted he would field a largely inexperienced side for the 2019 season following the departure of a handful of their more senior players, including English imports Jamie Tracey and Liam Quinn.

"The best thing is I don't have any preconceived ideas with who I will pick, so I'll have a look at the squad and see what we've got," he said.

"We haven't touched a footy yet."

One player Boyd was looking forward to seeing stake a claim for a first grade position was under-18 fullback Sam Ylias.

"I pulled him aside and told him I want him playing first grade," he said.

"He's a lightning quick fullback, winger or centre who has really good hands."

Former Port Macquarie Shark Ollie Pascoe has headed west and could play in the centres for round one.

"We've got at least one centre position free, a fullback and our halves are pretty open at this stage as well," Boyd said.

First grade kicks off at 4.30pm on Saturday with ladies league tag at 2.30pm and under 18s to kick off at 3.20pm.