Media Release from NZSoccer HQ AUCKLAND
NZSoccer today met with the ten clubs who will compete in the 2002 Southern Trust National League. It was agreed that the League would kick off on the 3rd February 2002, with the Grand Final being played the weekend of 8-9th June 2002. Clubs will have the ability during Daylight Savings hours to nominate kick off times and preferred match days, however all games will revert to Sunday’s 2.00pm kick off’s from Sunday April 7th. The League will consist of two full rounds and a top four playoff similar to this year, with New Zealand Soccer having the right to choose the venue for the final. The tenth placed National League team will compete in a promotion relegation series with Regional League Winners to determine which club will compete in the 2003 National League, this playoff series will be held in September 2002. The Bluebird Chatham Cup will commence on the weekend of 13/14th of April, with National League Clubs entering the 3rd round of competition on the 19th of May. The Bluebird Chatham Cup final will be played on Saturday 13th July 2002. A National Federation Youth Competition (Under 20) is expected to commence on the 10th February 2002, with games being played where appropriate as curtain raisers to National League fixtures.