They managed just one win in the league last term, a 42-22 win over Llanelli in April, but with no relegation from the top flight they maintained their Premiership status.
Morris is pleased with how things are shaping-up so far in pre-season at the Gnoll, as they look to put the nightmare season of injury problems behind them.
He said: “In terms of preparation, the board and team management are seeing to it that nothing is being left to chance really and we are very encouraged by how training has gone so far.
“We have had big numbers training, there are a couple of slots in the squad still up for grabs and everyone has been showing tremendous enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
“Everyone is out to impress and we need to hit the ground running.”
Neath have taken two local forwards on development contracts ahead of the new campaign, prop Callum Jones (Glynneath) and back-rower Aled Cockwell (Neath Athletic).
They will join the senior squad at the Gnoll while maintaining links with their parent clubs.
Morris said: “Along with several other young players who we have identified and who will get their chance during the season, Callum and Aled have been training hard from the start.
“At this stage, they are slightly ahead in terms of physical development and will provide cover in key positions for us.
“Our aim is to develop the local talent available to us as we continue the almost total re-construction of the squad.
“This is nothing new for Neath because the promotion of local talent was always the ideal of Ron Waldron in my own playing days.”
