"We'll know by July," the veteran administrator said.

"We'll have a strong reserve grade side again (in 2022). We're hoping to add a couple of players from out of Blayney to strengthen the side with a view towards 2023. That's the next step."

And the first step? Secure a coach for 2022.

The Bears are throwing the application process open in the hope of landing a mentor capable of helping the club continue its progression.

Lochy Hobby and Ryley Oborn guided the Bears to the Group 10 first division minor premiership in 2021, and all going well both will be back on deck again next winter.

But, Hornby says, the Blayney club is happy to look at all options headed into 2022.

"Next year is another step for us," he added.

"The biggest problem we have is no 18s. We've not had 16s for three years and it might be another three years before we have juniors coming through ... but we're focusing our energy on 2023."

The maroon and whites last played in Group 10's premier league in 2019.

The COVID-affected 2020 season wiped community sport out entirely while the Bears dropped back to Group 10's first division in 2021.

Hornby said the club has been encouraged to think long-term in its attempt to return to the top flight - which is now the Western-wide Peter McDonald Premiership - but with COVID still looming he says taking things one year at a time was the best philosophy.

"We all realise if COVID is back one of the first things to go is community sport. We're probably going overboard thinking five year plans but we're aiming for 2023," he said.

He said the bulk of last year's table-topping first division team was back for next season.

If anyone is interested in coaching the Bears' senior side in 2022, contact Hornby on 0428 022 533