This will be run in conjunction with the regular matches on Saturdays.

Group president Kevin Hardy says all clubs are positive about the initiative.

League tag has been part of the Group Three senior competition since 2009. All clubs will field teams this year.

Players will have to be 12 and older to play in the junior league competition. Mr Hardy explained the minimum age for players in the senior competition is 15.

"This will be a stepping stone to that,'' he said.

He added depending on the success of this season, the league could look to add another grade next year.

"We might go under 12s and 14s - but we'll see how we go this year first,'' he said.

Mr Hardy is confident the league will have sufficient referees to cover the additional games.

"But we may look at getting some players from the senior league tag to assist. We'll be able to get them fully qualified as referees,'' he said.

The junior league season will start on March 23 with the annual knockout at Taree Recreation Centre for grades from under 10s to 16s.

The competition-proper will kick off the following weekend before breaking for Easter.