THE Grimsby and District Football League will undergo the biggest shake-up in its 116-year history today.
In a radical change to the league's format, there will now be two age-groups, with sides fielding smaller teams.
Matches will be nine-a-side, with rolling substitutes – and games will be split into Under-30 and Over-30 age groups.
Teams playing in the Under-30 age group can have players of any age from 16-60, allowing older players to get involved alongside their sons.
For the Over-30s, teams will consist of players over the age of 30 and will not be allowed any player under this age.
These teams will be given the option of playing every week or every other week to give them a decent recovery time.
Games will be played on smaller pitches for the older age group, and in an enjoyable, fun environment.
All matches in both age groups will be officiated by fully qualified referees and in some instances assistant referees will be appointed as well.
Flexible kick-off times are available for those who want to watch Grimsby Town games or catch the lunch-time match on television.
"This new format has the full backing of the Lincolnshire Football Association and they are fully supporting us in our new venture," explained the league's honorary secretary Trevor Albery.
"So if there are any players out there who have stopped playing but miss the banter of the changing room on a Saturday and playing with friends, then why not form a team?"
Any teams that wish to join the league can do so by contacting Albery or any member of the league committee. An entry fee of £180 will secure your team in the league, and this will also include personal accident insurance cover for your team as well as entry costs to the league and affiliation to the Lincs FA. If you need any further information please contact Albery on 01472 231646 or 07779 715882, or visit the league's website on www.GDFL.co.uk. A deposit of £100 can be sent with an application form, which is downloadable from the website, to the secretary by May 31, with the balance payable by July 31.
