CCF PREMIER
COMPETITIOnS UPDATE
Central Coast Football’s Premier competitions are at the heart of our football community.
As the game continues to grow, we’ve recognized the need for key updates to ensure that our competitions remain fair, sustainable, and geared toward the development of players, coaches, and clubs.
These updates signal a bold step forward, setting the foundation for a future where CCF leads the way in player and club success
Strengthening the Future FOR ALL CLUBS
The changes for the 2025 season are designed to balance competitive integrity with player pathways, creating a structure that benefits all stakeholders—from grassroots players to top-tier teams.
We’re creating a fairer playing field, ensuring every team has a chance to succeed regardless of their size or resources.
The changes are based on extensive research, data analysis, and consultation. They have been designed considering the long-term benefits and sustainability of our top grade competitions.
WHATS CHANGING IN 2025?
BRAND NEW UNDER 23 COMPETITION
We’re replacing the Men’s Under 21 competition with a new
Under 23 league to provide clubs more flexibility and support youth development. This competition is open to ALL CCF Clubs.
New Promotion / Relegation Structure
Promotion and Relegation to MPL will now be decided on First Grade Ladder, with One team Automatically Promoted / Relegated and an exciting new playoff series for the remaining spot.
introduction of a Player points system
To ensure a competitive balance, we’re limiting the number of player registrations from higher leagues. This change supports local talent development & prevents clubs from dominating by recruiting external players.
Player Agreements for Premier Competitions
We’re introducing signed Player Participation Agreements to reinforce the amateur status of our competitions. These agreements clarify responsibilities and will include penalties for breaches, ensuring fair play and transparency.
Coaching Accreditation Requirements
To align with best practices, we’re phasing in new coaching accreditation requirements across all premier competitions. By 2026, head coaches will need to hold a C-License, ensuring consistent standards and better player development.
CLUB FEEDBACK PROCESS
In Early 2023, All CCF Clubs were given the opportunity to nominate members for CCF’s Premier Competition Working Group
Throughout the season, the Group reviewed all aspects of our MPL, WPL, DIV1 and WDIV1 competitions including Competitive Balance, Sustainable Growth and Gender Equity.
Composed of a range of experiences in all competitions, the Committee comprised the following members whose insights and recommendations will pave the way for the game from 2025 onwards:
Haydn Appo (Budgewoi) – Coach, Men
Gabby Blanch (Terrigal) – Coach, Women
Scott Snodgrass (Wyoming) – Administrator
Scott Sheldon (Killarney) – Team Manager
Kevin Wilson (Woongarrah) – President
Tom Freeman (Kanwal) – Administrator
Rowena Brooks (Avoca) – Team Manager
It’s noted that these recommendations primarily focus on Men’s Premier Football, however the committee discussed at length the fresh structure and different landscape surrounding Womens football and the extensive review process conducted in 2023. Specifically, the committee called out that:
- Significant structural changes around Promotion / Relegation in WPL are too early to be established
- An U23 Womens competition is the Aim, however current participation levels do not support it.
- CCF has already commenced a Coaching scholarship program for WPL and WDIV1 coaches.