THE South & West Dorset League’s winter season is up and running, with a record number of teams taking part across three divisions.

Budmouth Community Sports Centre plays host to a display of “athleticism, competition and vibrant team identities”, according to league chairman Louise Bugler.

And Weymouth’s Back to Netball scheme is proving a hit with local women, many of which have taken the brave decision to enter into regular competition, while the league, now in its 36th year, welcome new side Stika to the fold – Stika are largely made up of Back to Netball graduates.

Netball Now, a national pay and play initiative, has also been well received by the netball community who have been inspired by the dramas that unfolded at the Commonwealth Games.

Teams to watch out for this season include Autobitz and Belle Construction, each looking to settle the score after narrowly missing out on the Premier Division title.

Cresta Leisure, who secured promotion to the top flight, will be keen to show off their skills following a buoyant season, while Buildrite are hoping to continue to challenge the more experienced sides thanks to some useful signings, and Weysports have received an injection of talent such as Jo Davies.

Reigning champions Waterside have a trophy to defend and Amy-Jane Hunter-Welch is back from injury to enhance their chance of doing just that.

In Division Two, developing side Wetherspoon impressed during the last campaign and some might fancy them as favourites for 2014/2015.

Bugler said: “The league committee works tirelessly to provide a welcoming, friendly and competitive environment to inspire females of all ages to be active.

“Despite the dark nights app-roaching there will be floodlights and fast action down at the Weymouth courts every Thurs-day night, so come down and soak up the atmosphere to see who will be triumphant.”

Anyone interested in playing or sponsorship should go to south westdorsetnetball.co.uk