THE formation of a Coastal Premier League involving clubs from Football Mid North Coast and Football North Coast is a 'no brainer' according to Football Mid North Coast general manager Bruce Potter.
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Mr Potter met with Football North Coast officials last week in Coffs Harbour to discuss the rules and criteria for the new competition.
He confirmed the new league is on track for a kickoff next year. Under the plan 10 clubs - five from each zone would contest the competition.
"The competition would be far stronger and far more enjoyable for players and spectators than what we're currently offering,'' Mr Potter said.
He said the rules and criteria for the new league will be sent to Football Mid North Coast clubs soon. Mr Potter expects expressions of interest for the Coastal Premier League will be sought by late June or early July.
The competition would be far stronger and far more enjoyable for players and spectators than what we're currently offering
- Football Mid North Coast general manager Bruce Potter
The decision on the clubs to take part in the competition will be made by Football Mid North Coast and Football North Coast boards.
Mr Potter told the Times previously that he was confident at least five FMNC premier league clubs would nominate for the coastal competition.
Reservations were expressed by officials from southern clubs about the amount of travel and costs involved with playing in a competition that could take in clubs north of Grafton. Mr Potter agreed clubs in the northern section of Football North Coast have the same concerns.
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Taree Soccer Club president Ben Sedlen has said the Wildcats wouldn't have the player numbers to nominate for the coastal league, while he added that the costs would be prohibitive. This was backed by first grade captain-coach Jordan Howard.
However, Mr Sedlen told the Times in May that a merged entity with input from Manning-based clubs now involved in the Football Mid North Coast Southern League would be a better option for the league. Mr Potter backed this concept, while saying he hasn't spoken to Mr Sedlen about the idea.
Mr Potter agreed the Coastal Premier League would need to fully represent both zones and not be confined to clubs in the geographical centre.
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