The quality of the fixtures reflects the determination to learn the lessons of last season.
There will be a more hard nosed approach to training and, consequently, selection. The coaches feel that poor midweek preparation, mainly because of absences, cost us a number of points. They don't want a repeat in the new season.
Morley will be the first visitors and should be bringing two sides so the Stags will also get a hard run-out.
Rochdale are next. They are making a return visit after we travelled there for a pre-season game back in 2008 and it's hoped will also be bringing their second team.
Darlington will be at Brinkburn the week before the season starts with the Satgs travelling to Barnard Castle on that day.
Pre-Season Games
Saturday August 14th: 1sts v Morley [H]. Stags v Morley IIs [H]
Saturday August 21st: 1st v Rochdale [H]. Stags v Rochdale IIs [TBC]
Saturday August 28th: 1sts v Darlington [H]. Stags v Barnard Castle [A]