Aussie rules: Great sporting teams and the worlds greatest athletes have made a name for themselves through rivalry; as the intensity brings their game to a whole new level.

Think Real Madrid v Barcelona, Ali v Frazier and Roger Federer v Rafeal Nadal.

For the Dalby Swans, that rival is turning into the Warwick Redbacks.

Last year the sides played four enthralling matches, culminating in the grand final; which history tells us the Swans won.

2018 may be a new season, but Swans coach Ben Banks said this game still stands out on the calendar.

"Yeah it does for sure, we really want to win. It's going to be a true test of character,” Banks said.

The coach noted a few experienced heads will be returning to the line-up this weekend, and is hopeful their poise rubs off on the young side.

As with all great rivalries, more often than not the winner is the one who wanted victory more. An important lesson that Banks has been drilling into his team at training.

"We need to get our head over the ball and attack the footy,” he said.

"I just want them to be having a go at all times and not find themselves just standing there.”

The Swans v Redbacks game commences at 2.30pm Saturday at Swans Oval.