Iain McMillan hopes a super-sized squad can steer Saltcoats Vics through a jam-packed start to the West of Scotland League season.
The Saltcoats boss is going with a 20-plus pool of players as he prepares for two games a week in Conference A between Saturday's big kick-off and September.
McMillan reckons the hectic schedule combined with potential Covid and work issues could hit teams hard in the coming weeks and months.
He said: "We're looking at 11 games in 35 days so you need a big squad to be able to cope with that.
"We don't have the luxury of an Under-20s side to call upon like other teams so we've had to bring in more players than we normally would.
"Covid and boys having to self-isolate is something new we have to plan for these days. Playing Wednesdays and Saturdays every week could also pose a few problems for boys working.
"It's important we're well prepared for all that."
McMillan has bolstered his options in recent weeks by bringing striker Joe Young back to Campbell Park and securing the signature of former Dalry and Irvine Vics midfielder Jamie Anderson.
Both players have bags of experience at this level but McMillan is also ready to give youth a chance.
"Joe and Jamie bring that experience and add to the quality we already have here," he added.
"I'm happy with how the squad is shaping up. We've got a good blend in there.
"It's not all about experience. If boys are good enough to play at this level it doesn't matter what age they are, we will give them a chance.
"The young players at the club are going to feature heavily for us this season."
Saltcoats head into their opening day clash against Lugar Boswell Thistle on a high after winning the Sheena Thomson Memorial Trophy for the first time.
And McMilllan said: "Pre-season is all about good habits so winning a trophy can only be a good thing, It helps build confidence.
"We're all just desperate to get going. It's going to be an exciting season."
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