A second division has been confirmed for next year’s men’s Central League competition.
Central League 2 will go ahead following a consultation process between 36 clubs affiliated to Central Football and Capital Football.
Confirming the decision, the federations said: “The change in structure follows on from changes made to the National League System in 2021 and the re-introduction of a club-based National League, which to date has proven both popular and successful and provides clubs with a genuine pathway to the top level of the domestic game.”
Clubs got behind the concept, with 85% of Central clubs and 79% of Capital clubs saying they supported the league.
“This is the culmination of many months worth of consultation and review,” Central Football’s operations manager Donald Piper said.
“We believe this exciting opportunity will provide Central clubs with superior preparation for success in the Central League.
“Ultimately, seeing a clearer and more dynamic pathway into the National League system has already got clubs excited about not only 2025 but the development opportunity for the game and players alike.”
Blair Duncan, operations manager at Capital Football, said: “This initiative will not only enhance the competitiveness of our leagues but also contribute to the development of football across our regions.
“By closing the gap between the federation leagues and the men’s Central League, we are paving the way for a more robust and dynamic football pathway.”
READ MORE: Record-breaking Wellington Olympic take fourth Central League title in a row >>>>
How Central League 2 will work
The inaugural competition will have 10 club first teams.
They will be:
- The team relegated from the 2024 men’s Central League.
- The three highest-placed eligible teams from the Men’s Capital Premier League, and the Central Men’s Federation League, but excluding the team that qualifies for promotion to the Central League.
- Four teams determined by play-offs between the next four highest-placed sides from the federation leagues.
More information on Central League 2 >>>>>
This story was first published on August 11, 2024.
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