and much anticipation as to who will reveal themselves as legitimate challengers to AICO's throne as First Division champions.

Today, has the opening ceremonies taking place at Bernard Park, starting at 11 a.m., and will also witness 12 teams -- eight First Division teams and four from the Second Division -- battling for the year's first prize in the form of the Sylvia Easton Trophy.

Eight sides now make up the First Division and nine will contest the second, however, new rules have no teams being promoted or relegated.

League president Larry Dennis is looking forward to a thrilling year where any number of teams could find themselves thrust to the forefront.

"I anticipate some very keen competition this year,'' said Dennis, who has strong ties with perennial powerhouse Netts as well as Cardinals -- formerly Coca-Cola. "Netts look very strong this year, but the other teams are also working very hard to get ready.'' Runners-up last season and winners of the Overall Knock-Out, Netts return the likes of leading goal-scorer Carolyn Binns along with fellow attackers Denise Perinchief and Kim Minors.

The middle is likely to be anchored by Rosalie Foggo, while Jene Charles and Rhoda Eve create a solid wall of defence.

They have also been bolstered by the addition of Debra Smith, late of AICO, and one that could play a key role in their success.

Indications are that AICO may not be as prepared as they would like at present, having just recently commenced training.

One of those assisting in their preparation, former league president June Dill, like Dennis, figured on a tough campaign for everyone.

"I don't think any one team will dominate like they used to,'' she said.

"Last year the trophies were split up and there is now more parity among the league.'' She pointed to Cardinals and PCC along with the aforementioned duo as being probably the stronger outfits, but she said: "Play should be on more of an even keel between all the teams.'' Key members of the defending champs are goal shooter Debbie DeShields, a part of the Bermuda national team that went to Montserrat for the Caribbean Championships, centre Sherrie Maybury and Pettie Tucker (goal defence).

"We also have a number of new players that I really think will be an asset to the team,'' added Dill.

Meanwhile, two new teams, Cooper and Lines and Running Rebels, have joined the Second Division, raising the number of teams to nine -- Warwick departed for the First Division. Also, Netts will be known as 7-UP Netts.

A full slate of matches are scheduled for Sunday with Olympic Panthers taking on AICO and Netts clashing with Boulevard at 9.45 a.m followed by two more fixtures at 11.15 a.m. that see Running Rebels playing against Cooper and Lines and Wolves meeting defending champions 7-UP Netts.