The JJ Kavanagh & Sons Waterford Senior Football Championship gets underway today, with a full round of fixtures across Groups A and B.

In Group B, Roanmore face reigning champions Rathgormack at 2 pm in the Azzurri Walsh Park while Abbeyside-Ballinacourty take on Stradbally at the same time in Cappoquin Logistics Fraher Field.

Roanmore manager Emmet O’Toole admits his side could have been handed an easier opening assignment, with Rathgormack having established themselves as the leading force in Waterford football in recent years.

Roanmore are entering their third season at senior level, and O’Toole says the club is focused on continuing its progress after making the step up from junior football just a few years ago.

In Group A, An Rinn take on The Nire at 3 pm in Cappoquin Logistics Fraher Field, while Gaultier meet Kilrossanty at 3.45 pm in Azzurri Walsh Park.

The Gaultier and Kilrossanty meeting promises to be another intriguing contest, with Gaultier having reached the last four in five of the last six seasons.

Gaultier attacker JJ Hutchison says his side are fully aware of the threat posed by Kilrossanty, who defeated them in the group stages last year.

Gaultier will also welcome back players from Passage and Ballygunner following their involvement in the hurling championship.

Hutchison says there is no rivalry between the clubs when they come together with Gaultier, with the players focused solely on representing the club.

The growth of Waterford football at underage level has also added to the excitement around this year’s senior championship, following impressive performances from the county’s minor and under-20 teams.

The opening round will provide the first indication of how the championship is shaping up, with several clubs believing they can challenge for the title.