The Blues head across to California Gully to tackle Eaglehawk in the first round of the League Cup series.

Strathdale coach Stuart Gough said playing on Eaglehawk's turf was always a great challenge, especially in the first round.

"There is a great rivalry between both clubs," Gough said.

Several changes have been made to the Strathdale line-up that won last season's championship race.

Golden Boot winner of the past three seasons, Sean Boxshall is out of division one action as are goalkeeper Alex Culvenor, commitments with Bendigo City FC, and Sam Robertson, work commitments.

Newcomers for the Blues include Irish midfielder Steven Barrett, forward Kane Goldsworthy from Cobram Victory, and central defender Sunday Dingkar.

A hamstring injury is likely to keep Barrett on the sidelines until the start of the championship.

In his fourth year in charge, Gough said although the preparation had not been ideal a strong squad was ready to play.

Young players to watch for the Blues include Sam Farr and Ben Drechsler.

Spring Gully kicks off a new season with Simon Smith as coach of the division one team.

An Achilles injury led to his retirement as  player last season.

He was in charge of the division two championship team in 2014.

Smith first played soccer in England and moved to Australia more than four years ago.

Runner-up to Strathdale in last year's division one title race, Spring Gully plays on Colts United's turf in Strathfieldsaye in pool two of the League Cup.

"We played Colts in a pre-season friendly and it was a great hit-out for both clubs," Smith said.

The Reds' coach said a major goal in 2015 was to continue the mix of experience and youth.

"We have a lot of talented youngsters who can play a fast, attacking style of football."

Drawn in pool two, Golden City has a first-round bye.

In pool one, Moama hosts Epsom Scorpions.

Kick-off times for Sunday are youth at 10am, women's at 11am, division two at 1pm, and division one at 3pm.