The new season of JC Sapling Cup, organised by The Football Association of Hong Kong, China(HKFA), supported by The Hong Kong Premier League Committee and sponsored by The HongKong Jockey Club (HKJC), will kick off on October 12, 2024. BC Rangers and Lee Man will playthe opening match at the Mong Kok Stadium. A press conference was held at the Hong KongFootball Club today (September 23), introducing the arrangements for the coming season.

Mr. Eric FOK JP, Chairman of the HKFA, said, "We deeply appreciate The Hong Kong JockeyClub’s support towards development of local football. HKJC’s sponsorship for the Sapling Cup,which benefits the clubs, players, as well as the community. The JC Sapling Cup provides a platform for local young players to gain more competition time and experience, so they can fully show their talents and achieved great results in the Asian Games.”

Mr. Florian JUNGBAUER, Head of Brand and Digital Marketing Channels of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, also spoke at the press conference. He said, “We are delighted to know that some of the U22 players who participated in the JC Sapling Cup have been selected for the Representative Team of Hong Kong, China, to play in international matches. This is incredibly encouraging as it aligns with The Hong Kong Jockey Club's commitment to youth development. We believe that
football not only develops physical skills but also enhances personal growth and communication, which are essential for the younger generation.”

The JC Sapling Cup shall be divided in two stages. First is the group stage, where all participating teams will be divided into two groups (Group A & B) by lot drawing. Each group will play under a single round robin system. The first-place team and second-place team in each group will be qualify for the knockout stage (second stage) after completion of the group stage. The second stage is the knockout stage, four qualifying teams will play under the single knock-out format.

A minimum of three (3) local youth players (born on or after 1st January 2003) must be fielded at any one time during a Sapling Cup match.