With coach Rebecca Skrabl missing the first match of the year, young gun Tiffany Boatman stepped into defence with Tahnee Walker and more than held her own.

Skrabl said she was pleased to see her team get away to such a good start to hold a 13-goal quarter time lead.

"Coming into this game the main focus was seeing where everyone sits with juniors coming into positions," she said.

"It is a good start to the season and good to get a percentage boost straight away."

The Rats continued their dominance in second and third quarters with centre Kate Blight leading the way.

"From all reports Kate had a stellar game," Skrabl said.

"Fitness-wise she is really strong and her passing is fantastic."

While the Tigers were able to outscore Ararat by one goal in the final term, the damage had already been done, with the final result being 58 to 30.

The Rats were boosted by the return of star shooter Megan Shea (39 goals), who made her return to the game after being sidelined for the majority of 2013 with injury.

"Megan and Jakki form a really good combination in the goal circle," Skrabl said.

"Megan said it felt like old times again, everyone had each other's back."

Skarbl will return to the court to lead her team in round two against Stawell after the Easter break.

It was also a dominant display for the Rats in B grade, with the team recording a 43-goal victory.

Ararat hit the ground running and caught the Tigers on the hop in the first quarter, with the defenders restricting their opponents to a solitary goal, while down the other end of the court goalies Alice Laidlaw and Kara Cunningham were in fine form.

The pair combined to score 18 goals in the first term and then outscored Nhill by a further 16 goals in the second quarter.

Grace Molloy was dominant for the Rats playing in defence and her contribution helped the side hold an unassailable 39-goal lead at the last change.

Ararat continued to press in the fourth quarter and by the final whistle the scoreboard had blown out to read 64 to 21.

Ararat's 17 and unders got the season away to a very impressive start with the team putting in a solid four quarter effort.

Led credibly by joint-captains Lucy Mills and Justine May, the Rats were relentless in their defensive pressure all over the court.

Mills was outstanding in the midcourt with numerous intercepts and creative passing into the goalies, while May's leadership and fierce pressure on her opponent were features of her game.

The consistent performance saw the home team score a big 51 to 19 win.

Just as impressive were the 15 and under A Rats who defeated the Tigers 40 to 17.

All players contributed in the victory with their positive attitudes and skilful plays pleasing the coaches.

Monique Scott was named the team's best player for her clever intercepts forcing turnovers, while Allison Lewis contributed well with good passes and fed the goalies well.

It was a tough first quarter for Ararat's 15 and under B side, which was a little unfamiliar with how each other played.

Once the Rats adjusted they were able to play a more fluent game and eventually accounted for Nhill by 11 goals.

Karly Griffits was the big improver for the match, listening and taking in what was asked of her to produce a very steady and strong performance.

Ella Carlyle also played well and was aggressive in defence where she read the play well.

The 13 and under Rats played out a 22-all draw after overcoming a shaky start.

Ararat was very impressive for a side that was playing its first game together.

Olivia Carr worked hard at goal keeper to nullify her opponent, while Sam Briggs moved beautifully in goal shooter and provided her team with some good targets in goals.