Defending champions Scunthorpe Saints are confirmed as one of eight starters in the 2012 National League and face Stoke Potters in a mouth-watering first round tie in the Knockout Cup.
The main points coming out of Thursday’s National League AGM were as follows:
Eight teams in 2012 National League: Buxton Hitmen, Dudley Heathens, Isle Of Wight Islanders, King’s Lynn Young Stars, Mildenhall Fen Tigers, Rye House Raiders, Scunthorpe Saints, and Stoke Potters.
Top 4 teams go through play-off semi-finals, with two semi-final winners to then meet in the Grand Final. Cut-off for play-offs: Sunday, September 16th.
All 8 teams in Knockout Cup. First round draw: Buxton v Dudley, Isle Of Wight v Rye House, Kings Lynn v Mildenhall, Scunthorpe v Stoke.
Buxton, Isle Of Wight, Mildenhall and Stoke to contest National Trophy (run as mini-league – top of table wins).
National League Rider’s Championship takes place at Rye House on Saturday, September 15th. Other shared events: National League Fours at Stoke; National League Pairs at Mildenhall.
Points limit of 40.00 agreed for the next three seasons (2012-2014).
Scunthorpe promoter Rob Godfrey said: “The meeting went pretty well, considering there are so many different agendas within the league.
“With so much pressure on track time, we could have done without going in the Knockout Cup, but we understand that with only eight teams, it was something we had to."
“We would also prefer the points limit a bit lower, but at least it can’t go above 40 for three seasons."
“I’m excited about the riders we have signed so far for the Saints, and I hope our fans will enjoy watching them develop over the course of the season."
“With a team focused on youth, defending our league title will be a long shot, but we will have a young team of riders who will give their absolute all in every meeting.”
The Saints’ first meeting of the season will take place at the Eddie Wright Raceway on Easter Monday (April 9th) whilst the Premier League Scorpions side will start their season on Friday 15th March (7.30pm start).
