Caley Thistle Colts application to join Highland League rejected
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Inverness Caledonian Thistle's application to enter a colts team into the Highland League has been rejected as club chiefs voted to remain at 17 teams.
The decision was made at the Highland League AGM where representatives from SHFL clubs discussed the division's future following champions Cove Rangers promotion to League Two.
The AGM considered three options, including Caley Thistle's application to enter a colts team into the league and remaining at 17 clubs, as well as inviting clubs to apply to join the league for the 2020/21 season.
A fourth option to invite North Junior champions Banks O'Dee to join the league was considered but the Aberdeen club were not interested in joining the division.
The decision means each club will have a free week during the 2019/20 season.
Following Inverurie Locos entering the division in 2001, the Highland League operated with 15 teams between 2001 and 2009.
Ten years ago, Formartine United, Strathspey Thistle and Turriff United successful applications brought the Highland League up to 18 teams. Banks O'Dee's application was rejected in 2009.
Cove Rangers became the first Highland League team to gain promotion to League Two in the play-offs after beating Berwick Rangers 7-0 on aggregate.
