soccer.

The Bermuda Football Association confirmed yesterday that the former league champions are planning to return the league -- in the Second Division -- for the 1996-97 season.

Hotels have been away from the scene since dropping out as a First Division club at the end of the 1992-93 season.

"Hotels did not leave their affiliation so all they have to do is sign back up,'' said BFA general secretary David Sabir yesterday. "They have indicated they will be participating this year.'' Another club expressing interest in returning is Port Royal, who dropped out prior to last season, leaving the Second Division with only eight team.

If Port Royal also return then the number of teams in the Second Division will increase to ten.

Clubs have until August 15 to register for the new season while the deadline for player transfers is July 31, when all registrations must be returned to the BFA office.

It will be a busy Cup Match week for the association as they have their annual general meeting scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. at the Young Men's Social Club.