The Armadale Devils are set to return for a third National Development League season.
The side, who finished at the foot of the table last term, having struggled both on and off the shale since making their return to the sport but the Edinburgh Monarchs promotion team insist creating a pathway for young riders is crucial for the continued development of the club.
The Devils were brought back into the sport in 2020 after more than a decade away - only to see their anticipated return pushed back a year due to the covid pandemic.
But despite challenges on the track and running at a loss off it, Monarchs co-promoter John Campbell confirmed the club’s plans to put out an NDL team once again for the 2023 campaign.
Since their return the club have also launched the Monarchs Speedway Academy as they aim to get more young riders into the sport.
Campbell commented: “In recent years we have renewed our drive to develop new speedway riders by providing them appropriate opportunities to build their careers. This is hugely important to the future of the club and the sport.
“It is no secret that the Armadale Devils have faced their challenges in the past two seasons both in terms of rider availability and financially.
“Following the recent National Development League AGM we took the option to delay confirmation of our continued participation so that we may assess our activity at this level to ensure that it is fulfilling its role within our Academy structure to the full.”
He added: “In this assessment we have identified some areas for improvement that we will adjust going forward and also identified that to fully deliver our development activities that further funding will need to be attracted.
“It is crucially important that we do continue to operate a team at this level so that the Academy offers a complete pathway.
“As such, we are delighted to be racing in the National Development League in 2023 and will build a team that can compete well.”
All Monarchs operations had been in some doubt over recent months after they were given notice to vacate Armadale Stadium while plans for a new venue in Livingston were also scuppered when West Lothian Council accepted a rival bid for the land.
However, agreement has been reached between the club and the Armadale Stadium owners for speedway to continue for next season.
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
