"But this was a bad year to start it,'' he quickly added.

The innovative competition kicked off in 2020 - a year blighted by COVID-19 and resulting restrictions. Involving 10 clubs from FMNC and North Coast Football, the competition was set for a March start before the COVID lockdown.

First games were eventually played on July 4 with the competition extended to mid-October to get two full rounds completed.

No semi-finals were planned with the winner to be decided on a first-past-the-post basis for this year only.

The league was progressing without major concerns until NSW Health introduced new COVID guidelines last month that ruled out clubs from FMNC crossing over to play those from the North Coast.

So the inaugural competition was decided after the completion of the first round on August 22.

"In one way we were fortunate that we were able to get one round completed,'' Mr Potter said.

Going into last round four sides, Macleay Valley, Port Saints, Coffs United and Boambee were in line to win the premiership.

"As it turned out the clubs in line for the wooden spoon, Kempsey Saints and Taree, were also opposed,'' Mr Potter said.

Coffs United emerged premiers in first and reserve grades with Taree wooden spooners in first grade

But despite these unforeseen problems, Mr Potter is excited about the success of the CPL, saying the standard was strong, while feedback from clubs has been positive.

There were some concerns when the competition was first proposed that FMNC clubs would struggle against the northern entities, but on the evidence of one round that wasn't the case.

"Two clubs, Taree and Sawtell fielded very youthful teams and they'll be improved by this year's experiences,'' Mr Potter said.

Clubs were all given three year licenses to play in the CPL and Mr Potter said all will be back in 2021.

"We've made a good start. Now we can build on that for the future,'' Mr Potter said.

"We can say we've used this year to get some of the bugs out.''

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