Clubs have until February 23 to nominate sides for the various competitions run by FMNC. The ZPL will be a one grade competition replacing the FMNC Premier League.

FMNC chairman Mike Parsons said there were still a number of unknowns that needed to be finalised in coming weeks regarding player numbers within some teams.

"We've had a number of applications and a number of clubs that are waiting on registration numbers," he said.

"We will certainly have a Zone Premier League, but the exact number of teams is an unknown at this stage."

Former Premier League clubs Wallis Lake, Taree and Camden Haven, Kempsey Saints are expected to nominate while we understand there's been plenty of interest from clubs previously involved in the Southern League, a one grade competition involving clubs from Gloucester, Forster-Tuncurry and the Manning.

Wauchope are still considering their options depending on player availability and FMNC expect as many as eight clubs to nominate for the competition.

The Coastal Premier League, involving four clubs from Football Mid North Coast and five from North Coast Football, will be underway from Saturday March 28. The four Football Mid North Coast clubs involved are all from the Hastings/Macleay area.