North Caledonian League will return to just one division next season
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The North Caledonian League will return to one division next season.
The North Caledonian Football Association have confirmed its current two division set-up, which was established for one season only due to the pandemic, will be merged into one division next campaign.
Next season is expected to have 12 teams, which include Invergordon and St Duthus, who play in North Caledonian League Division One and Alness United in Division Two.
Helmsdale outfit Bunillidh Thistle, who withdrew this season due to the impact of the pandemic, have not confirmed if they will return next season, but it is thought that it is unlikely due to financial reasons at present.
However, they say they will remain members and return to the league eventually.
NCFA president Iain Whitehead says all 12 clubs competing this campaign have committed to playing next season.
He says all teams will be taking part in one division in a planned 22-game competition.
“We have held a meeting regarding clubs’ thoughts of starting next season so we can plan the campaign,” he said.
“The same 12 clubs will be playing but in one division.
“We formed the two divisions this season as we knew there was a good chance the competition would have to be put on hold.
“We felt by playing a shorter number of games we could get the season completed.
“Some teams in Division Two indicated that they wanted to play in the top division.
“However, we think the two division system has helped some clubs play this season, especially those who have joined the league this season and will help them moving forward.
“There might be an option of a split during the campaign to avoid heavy scorelines.
“But at the moment, we are planning a 22-game league campaign for next season.”
