So much so that he has it in mind to continue the idea in seasons to come.

The modified 11s rugby league competition heads into grand finals this Friday night, November 27, at the Bega Rec Ground with friendly rivalries to the fore.

First up the Commercial Hotel Magpies will line up against inter-town rivals the Grand Hotel Rovers in what could be called the "division two" final given they missed out on the wins last week.

Then last Friday night's winning teams the Wolumla Wombats and Cobargo-Bermagui Eels do battle for bragging rights in the inaugural competition.

The four captains gathered this week for a photo - and some friendly ribbing - ahead of the games.

Billy Hudson of the Eels said it was great to be playing for Cobargo-Bermagui again.

"And playing against your mates is fun - then going for a drink after.

"Obviously everyone wants a win, and it's a pretty even comp, so it's all been really good."

Ricky Stapleton from the Commercial said the crowds in particular had been great, a sentiment backed up by Barton.

"The district has gained a bit of footy momentum even though the senior comp didn't go ahead this year," Barton said on Thursday.

"And you can see by the crowds that people have been really happy to have games back on in town."

The crowds have particularly enjoyed seeing familiar faces on the field, some who may not have pulled on the boots in a few years. And there have also been new faces to rugby league making an impact, with local Aussie rules player Reece Moulden identified as among those lighting up the field and the crowds.

Jye Britten, who leads the Wolumla Wombats, said the competition has been a good opportunity for people who hadn't played before, alongside the more experienced missing out on their regular season.

Grand captain Scott Fuller said his squad has not been as hurt with injuries "like the rest of them", looking across at Stapleton, who said his Commercial side has essentially been completely switched out from its initial line-up. That includes the captain himself being ruled out of the final with a shoulder injury.

Then again, Stapleton said the average age of his side is about 40!

But you still get the feeling it's going to be an energetic and entertaining night of local footy.

Gates open this Friday, November 27, with food available from 5pm. Game one kicks off at 6pm.