Australia Capital Territory NPL2
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Belconnen United
West Canberra Wanderers FC
O'Connor Knights
Tuggeranong Utd
Wikipedia - Capital Premier League
The Capital Premier League (formerly known as NPL ACT 2 or simply NPL2) is an association football competition contested by clubs affiliated to Capital Football. The league is the second highest level (level 2) competition in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) region. It is a 2nd tier in ACT Capital Football and sits in Level 3 in the overall Australian league system. Prior to 2019, the league was known as the Capital League and was the top division of the ACT State League system and National Premier Leagues Capital Football 2.
History
Established in 1967 as Division 2 the level 2 division in the ACT has been competed every year except a three-year gap between 1984 and 1986, The league has been renamed three times prior to 2019 with the original Division 2 title changed to State League One in 1992 before becoming the Capital League in 2013.
1 August 2018, Capital Football announced a major overhaul of the local football structure with the top two divisions (level 1 and 2) linked with the introduction of promotion and relegation between the top two men's divisions. The top two leagues were re-branded from NPL Capital Football and the Capital League to NPL1 and NPL2.
3 August 2018, a group of current NPL clubs in the ACT raised concerns regarding the structure changes and the introduction of promotion and relegation. In particular the concern around governances was raised by Woden-Weston president Steve Rohan-Jones. While Canberra Olympic coach, Frank Cachia, raised the issues around juniors and the sustainability of an inter-state team if it gets relegated.
31 August 2018, Capital Football opened the application process for interested teams to apply to join the NPL1 and NPL2 leagues.
28 September 2018, Capital Football announced the successful applications for teams for the 2019 NPL season. NPL1 would consist of nine teams with seven teams selected for NPL2. Out of the ten teams that competed in the 2018 Capital League season, seven teams were successful in gaining NPL2 status while three teams, Narrabundah FC, Monaro Panthers reserves, and Canberra Olympic reserves were all unsuccessful. The bottom team of NPL1 in 2019 would be relegated to NPL2 for the 2020 season but no team from NPL2 would be promoted to even the two leagues to eight teams each.
Narrabundah FC lodged an official appeal supported by a number of other Capital Football affiliated clubs. Narrabundah's appeal was successful, and on 8 November 2018 Capital Football released a new declaration of leagues for the 2019 NPL level that included Narrabundah FC as an NPL2 participant.
15 November 2018, NSW regional club, Wagga City Wanderers, announced it was transferring from NSW State League to Capital Football and would join the NPL2 and NPLW leagues. This move resulted in both NPL1 and NPL2 leagues having nine teams each for the 2019 season.
The tournament features a diverse array of teams, ranging from established clubs to emerging talent, all vying for glory and the chance to ascend to higher tiers of Australian soccer. Matches are held in various venues across the ACT, providing fans with the opportunity to witness thrilling encounters and support their local teams.
NPL2 is not just about competition; it emphasizes player development, sportsmanship, and community involvement. Clubs are committed to nurturing young athletes, offering pathways to professional soccer while promoting a love for the game at the grassroots level.
With a season filled with intense rivalries, skillful play, and passionate supporters, the Australia Capital Territory NPL2 is a must-watch for soccer enthusiasts and a vital part of the region's sporting landscape. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, the excitement and camaraderie of NPL2 promise an unforgettable experience.