The Corona League kicks off its ninth season tonight, with the Coronita Charity Cup between league champions West End United and Footy Kings, the reigning BTC Cup holders.

The league loses Butterfield and Vallis United, but gains North Village and a team from the Royal Bermuda Regiment.

“Each year it grows in its competitiveness, so I think we’re in for another competitive season,” Mike McGrath, the Corona League president, said. “North Village, coming back, could be very competitive at the top end of the table.”

McCarthy also explained how creating a family atmosphere is crucial for the league.

“The spectator aspect is very important,” he said. “It’s important the family can come out and enjoy the football. The atmosphere on the pitch and around the pitch reflect each other.

“The referees are treated with respect and we have harsh penalties for players who step out of line.”

As far as competitiveness, McGrath said the standard of competition has improved.

“As it’s got more competitive, the standard of play has increased quite a lot,” he said. “There are some guys who want to play on the quality surface. They are, perhaps, ready to leave Premier Division football a year earlier to have the legs to play competitively here.

“Players don’t start here till they’re 23, so the Player Development League isn’t encroached upon.

“There’s no upper limit. And we have five subs, so that gives the older players the chance to play. We all know the legs go a little bit before the mind, so 20 minutes at the end can make a big difference!”

McGrath is expecting another close match tonight.

“West End traditionally have players from that area,” he said. “Footy Kings started off a little bit slowly, then started to turn that around and went on to win the Cup.”

The Coronita Charity Cup kicks off at 7pm at Goose Gosling Field.