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Wikipedia - Victoria Premier League 2
The Victoria Premier League 2 (formerly National Premier Leagues Victoria 3, 2020-2024), commonly referred to as VPL 2, is a semi-professional soccer league in Victoria, Australia. The league is the third-highest in the Victorian league system, behind NPL Victoria and Victoria Premier League 1, and forms part of the fourth tier of the overall Australian pyramid.
The league was initially created from the bottom halves of NPL Victoria 2 East and West, when the league was reorganised from two geographic conferences to two separate vertical NPL divisions.
The competition is administered by Football Victoria, the governing body of the sport in the state. Initially due to commence in 2020, the league's first season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beginning in the 2024 season, the third-tier competition has been renamed the Victoria Premier League 2, the name of the state-tier competition prior to the formation of NPL Victoria.
History
In 2018, pressures from member clubs and a desire to re-evaluate league structure and organisation led Football Victoria to commission a report into how the NPL Victoria leagues could be re-worked. Among a series of recommendations on improvements to the youth structure, the report recommended that NPL Victoria 2 - then a two-conference division with ten teams each in an east-west split, contesting 28 fixtures each per season - should be reformed with NPL Victoria 2 turned into a single division of 12 teams and a new 12-team division - NPL Victoria 3 - created.
The proposed changes were agreed, and to enact the split the top six teams of each NPL Victoria 2 conference in the 2019 season were given places in the 2020 Victoria 2 competition, with the bottom four of the two conferences all relegated to Victoria 3. Four additional teams were promoted from Victorian State League 1 to make up the numbers. Among the sides moved to NPL Victoria 3 were the NPL development sides of A-League duo Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory.
The tournament brings together teams from various cities and towns, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere. It serves as a platform for both established and emerging soccer clubs to showcase their skills and compete against each other for the coveted championship title.
The Australia Victoria Premier League 3 features intense matches that are filled with thrilling moments, showcasing the players' technical abilities, tactical prowess, and teamwork. The level of competition is high, with each team striving to outperform their opponents and secure victory.
The tournament is known for its fast-paced and dynamic style of play, with teams displaying their attacking prowess and defensive resilience. The matches are played on well-maintained pitches, providing the perfect stage for players to exhibit their talents.
Fans and spectators can expect an electrifying atmosphere as they cheer on their favorite teams and players. The tournament attracts a passionate and dedicated fan base, creating an incredible ambiance in the stadiums.
The Australia Victoria Premier League 3 not only promotes the sport of soccer but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among players, coaches, and fans. It serves as a platform for players to develop their skills, gain exposure, and potentially progress to higher levels of competition.
Overall, the Australia Victoria Premier League 3 is a thrilling and highly anticipated soccer tournament that showcases the best of Australian soccer talent. It is a must-watch event for soccer enthusiasts and a testament to the country's love for the beautiful game.