All systems go for clubs to kick off a new season

Kennoway Star Hearts, Thornton Hibs and Glenrothes FC have been patiently waiting for some sort of confirmation from league chiefs about when the fixture list will start.

A productive and informative meeting was held this week between the Scottish FA, SLFL, SHFL, EoSFL, SoSFL, WoSFL and affiliated national associations when a provisional start date for competitive matches was given as October 10.

To prepare for these games clubs will look to play friendly matches and a indicative date for a decision on ‘local’ friendlies is 11 September, with an effective date of 14 September.

All friendly game requests must be approved by the relevant organisation prior to taking place.

Guidelines in respect of what ‘local’ means will be issued to clubs shortly.

Glenrothes FC have started their pre-season training with John Martin and Kevin Smith’s squad returning this week.

A clubs spokesman said: “John and Kev were delighted with the effort that was put in and there were a lot of positives to take into pre-seaason.”

Thornton Hibs are stepping up their preparations too and have confirmed the signing of former St Johnstone, East Fife and Montrose ‘keeper Jordan Millar.

Millar signs from Kelty Hearts. Kennoway Star Hearts and Thornton Hibs kick off next season in the East of Scotland League First Division Conference A.

Glenrothes will play in Conference B along with Fife rivals Burntisland Shipyard, Lochgelly Albert, Lochore Welfare, Luncarty, Newburgh and Oakley.