North West Sutherland Amateur Football Association announces plans for 2022 season
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SUMMER football is set to return to Sutherland this year as the North West Sutherland Amateur Football Association are putting plans in place for the 2022 season.
Organisers are planning to return to two divisions of teams from across the county.
Five teams, Golspie Stafford, Helmsdale United, Inver, Lairg Rovers and Lochbroom have already confirmed they are interested in playing in the league this season.
At least another seven are expected to confirm their participation in the competition when the NWSAFA holds its annual general meeting later this month.
Plans are being put in place as the NWSAFA are looking to confirm how many teams will be taking part in the Highland Amateur Cup this year, which will hold its own AGM in Dingwall on Saturday, April 2.
It has been two years since the NWSAFA held its summer league due to the impact of the pandemic, although Golspie and Helmsdale did take part in a friendly league with teams from Caithness last summer.
NWSAFA secretary Hugh Morrison says organisers will be able to stage two divisions in the summer league this year.
“We are looking for interest from clubs as we are preparing for the Highland Amateur Cup in April,” he said.
“Five clubs from the 14 teams have already come back to me saying they are good to play this summer so it is looking like it will be fine.
“Things are still at an early stage, but I think at least 12 clubs will definitely play in the league as well as in the Highland Amateur Cup.
“Some clubs might not start up again as times have changed in the last two years.
“Some of the teams are based in villages that have ageing populations where it is difficult to bring youngsters through.
“But our plan is to go back to two divisions like we did in 2019.”
