(Under-19), the Bermuda Football Association (BFA) will allow clubs to include four players over the set age limit but not older than 21.

A similar format was used with the Bantam Division a season ago when a limited amount players up to 19 were allowed to perform after the Premier Division collapsed due to a shortage of teams.

"Basically there is the general feeling that clubs would struggle to field teams if it was left to strictly those players under 19,'' explained Troy Harvey, who doubles as chairman of the Shell youth committee and youth coordinator. "A lot of the guys go away to prep school or college or find jobs and it becomes difficult to produce the numbers for teams.

"This is more of a pre-emptive measure and an attempt to get them into a set programme rather than just sitting out or leaning on a wall somewhere.'' The position was approved by the BFA's executive committee last week, resulting in the registration deadline being pushed back to next Monday, and competition to start a week later.

In addition to the age allowance it has also been resolved to further promote the division by scheduling matches as curtainraisers for First Division matches, which is hoped will further place the spotlight on the youth.

There will be a meeting for all presidents and youth coaches of affiliates at the Devonshire Rec. on Saturday at noon.

The meeting will finalise the registration of teams in all Shell youth divisions and to distribute information and answer questions on changes in the rules and other initiatives pertaining to all youth divisions.

Every coach and club officer with responsibility for Mini Minors, Minors, Bantams and Premier (Junior) teams are urged to attend. A light lunch will be served.