Teams
Cashmere Technical
Coastal Spirit
Nomads United
Nelson Suburbs
Ferrymead Bays
Selwyn United
Dunedin City Royals FC
Christchurch United
Green Island AFC
FC Twenty 11
Mosgiel AFC
Dunedin Technical AFC
Caversham AFC
Otago University
Queenstown Rovers
Universities of Canterbury
Roslyn Wakari
Southland United
Northern AFC
Western AFC
Wanaka AFC
Queenstown Women
Roslyn Wakari Women
Wikipedia - Southern League (New Zealand)
The Southern League is an amateur status league competition organized by New Zealand Football but run by Mainland Football and Southern Football for Association football clubs located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is at the second level of New Zealand Football behind the national association based New Zealand National League, and the highest level of club based football available to teams within the region.
History
Renaming and restructuring of leagues in the country
In March 2021, New Zealand Football announced a change to the structure of both the premiership and the top regional leagues around the country. The four top regional leagues (NRFL Premier, Central Premier League, Mainland Premier League and the FootballSouth Premier League) would be formed into the Northern League, Central League, and the Southern League. These leagues would allow local clubs to qualify for the premiership season (now known as the National League Championship), with the top 4 teams from the Northern League, the top 3 teams from the Central League, and the top 2 teams from the Southern League making up the competition, alongside the Wellington Phoenix Reserve side. All teams that qualify plus the Phoenix Reserves, would then play a single round-robin competition between September and December. For the Southern League, the two existing competitions run in the South Island (Mainland Premier League and FootballSouth Premier League) play their original league seasons for the teams to then qualify for a place in the newly formed competition. Five teams from Mainland Premiership, which covers the top of the South Island to Christchurch and three teams from FootballSouth Premier League, covering from below Christchurch to the bottom of the South Island, will qualify. The competition will start on the 17 July 2021.
The New Zealand Southern League is an exciting and competitive soccer tournament that showcases the best talent from the southern regions of New Zealand. Established to promote the growth of football at the grassroots level, the league features a diverse array of clubs, each representing their local communities with pride and passion.
**Format and Structure**
The Southern League operates on a league format, where teams compete in a series of matches throughout the season. Clubs vie for points in a round-robin style, with the top teams earning the chance to compete for the championship title. The tournament not only emphasizes competitive play but also fosters sportsmanship and camaraderie among players, coaches, and fans.
**Community Engagement**
One of the standout features of the Southern League is its commitment to community engagement. Clubs often host local events, youth clinics, and outreach programs, encouraging young players to develop their skills and love for the game. The league serves as a vital platform for nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for aspiring soccer players to shine.
**Showcasing Talent**
The Southern League is a stepping stone for players aiming to advance to higher levels of competition, including national leagues and representative teams. Scouts and coaches frequently attend matches, looking for emerging talent to support the future of New Zealand soccer.
**Fan Experience**
Fans play a crucial role in the Southern League, creating a vibrant atmosphere at matches. With passionate supporters cheering for their teams, the league fosters a sense of community and belonging. Families, friends, and soccer enthusiasts come together to celebrate the sport, making each match a memorable experience.
**Conclusion**
The New Zealand Southern League is more than just a tournament; it is a celebration of soccer, community, and the spirit of competition. With its focus on local talent, community involvement, and the love of the game, the Southern League continues to be a cornerstone of New Zealand's soccer landscape, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.