Last year, Perth Steel celebrated double delight, as both their men’s and women’s teams triumphed in the Volleyball Super League.

This year, the objective is the same — but both teams will have a target on their back as they look to successfully defend their titles.

The VSL kicks off this weekend, with the two Steel sides hosting Adelaide Storm at Warwick Stadium on Saturday.

Perth are intent on going back-to-back, but they know they will be the hunted rather than the hunters this year.

Women’s captain Shelby Maher acknowledged the challenge of repeating but said they were prepared for it.

“We’ve built on our strengths from last year and focused on addressing our weaknesses,” she said.

“Our goal is to improve ourselves, not to prove anything to anyone.

“It’s a new season with a new calibre of girls and we are excited to play against the best.”

Maher said consistency and familiarity would be the two bedrocks on which their title defence would be built.

“The key to our success this year lies in staying focused and present in each moment. Last year, we demonstrated this strength by being a resilient team committed to maintaining a high level of competitiveness,” she said.

“We’re a close-knit group of girls, playing for each other and striving for gold.

“This year, we’re bringing back a familiar core group, elevated by some impressive new talent and experience.”

After hosting Adelaide, both Perth teams will travel to Sydney and Melbourne to face NSW Phoenix and Melbourne Vipers respectively.

Another road trip to Brisbane will follow to take on Queensland Pirates, before they finish their fixtures at home to Canberra Heat ahead of the semifinals and finals, to be held in Adelaide from October 12-13.