The 2009 edition of the nation's premier local female football competition, the Sherwin Williams Women League (SWWL), was officially launched at the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) offices yesterday.

The league, which got under way last weekend, will see 12 teams participating with paint manufacturers Sherwin Williams underwriting the league for the eighth successive year. The format of the competition will be similar to that of the Digicel Premier League.

In what is a 23 per cent increase over last season, Sherwin Williams' sponsorship will amount to $4.3 million, with the winners slated to take home $270,000, runners-up $180,000, third place $84,000 and fourth place $72,000.

There will also be a mid-season final with first place scheduled to take home $72,000 and the runners-up $48,000.

"It's indeed a pleasure to once again be sponsors of the league and we hope that the new features will help aid its development, grow its popularity, and win new audiences," said Sherwin Williams managing director, Ian Forbes.

Transportation incentive

Among some of the new features that have been added is the elimination of the second-tier 'A' League, a team transportation incentive of $300,000 to each club, and five rounds of inter-group matches geared at improving the league.

"The aim is to increase the level of competitiveness, assist teams in competing effectively, and add levels excitement to the league," said league director, Roy Williams.

Ninety-seven games will be played this year as opposed to 75 last year, with Constant Spring and Santos the only newcomers.

Barbican are the defending champions.

Teams: Zone A - Barbican, Constant Spring, Marverley/Hughenden, Trelawny Women, Portmore Strikers and Arnett Gardens.

Zone B - Waterhouse, Santos, Reno, Meadhaven United, Harbour View and Olympic Gardens.