St George’s have beaten off competition from long-time rivals PHC to win the vacant Corona League slot.The East Enders replaced Fire FC yesterday who withdrew from the league at the end of last season.Both St George’s and PHC applied to fill the void left by Fire FC, with the league’s affiliates voting for their preferred choice to join their 12-team competition.Richard Todd, St George’s technical director, expressed his excitement that his team had been given the nod over the Zebras.“We’re excited to be joining the league. There was a bit of uncertainty with them only bringing in one team. With ourselves and PHC both the race, it was always going to be a close call,” said Todd.“I was pleasantly surprised with our entry into the Corona League and we want to now get off to a good start in our first game in the league.”St George’s start their campaign against near-neighbours St David’s in the opening match of the season on September 23, which will be followed by Tuff Dogs against Robin Hood.Although the jump from the Masters League to the Corona League will be big in terms of competitiveness,Todd believes players never lose their competitive edge regardless of their age. The St George’s Premier Division coach hasn’t ruled out lacing up his boots either this season.“I think most players want to remain competitive and the main thing is we want to fun. We aren’t coming in to win everything right off the bat but with the natural ability of some of our players it will be exciting.“We are just looking to enjoy playing the game in a good atmosphere and in a great environment.“Whether I play this year in the Corona League remains to be seen. I hold registration with the BFA but there is a good group of us who are looking at playing in the league besides our normal guys that come out.”Corona League president Mike McGrath added: “St George’s Cricket Club will be introduced into the league.“It was felt by all that St George’s Cricket Club, being a large part of their community, would add that spirit to the one that already exists in the Corona League and are a welcome addition to the already diverse Corona League family.”The season will open for the first time with the Rubis Charity Shield that will see North Village tackle Vasco on September 17 at 3pm.Bermuda Bistro at the Beach will be the sponsor of the Bistro Cup competition which will start on December 2, while Docksiders will also provide the sponsorship for the end of season All-Star game.