Netherlands Tweede Divisie

Tweede Divisie (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈtʋeːdə diˈvizi]; English: Second Division) is the highest amateur (and historically the lowest professional) football league in the Netherlands. It was established in 1956, together with the Eredivisie and the Eerste Divisie. Between 1956 and 1960 and between 1962 and 1966, the league consisted of two divisions, Tweede Divisie A and Tweede Divisie B. The league was disbanded in 1971. Six clubs were promoted to the Eerste Divisie (De Volewijckers, FC Eindhoven, FC VVV, Fortuna Vlaardingen, PEC and Roda JC), while the other eleven teams became amateur clubs.

Plans for a new, amateur Tweede Divisie, to be made up of 4 reserve teams and 14 Topklasse clubs, were approved in a KNVB assembly in December 2014. Thus, the Topklasse, renamed the Derde Divisie (English: Third Division), and leagues below decremented by one level, and furthermore, promotion and relegation among the second to fourth divisions were implemented starting in 2016–17. Despite its amateurism, the league obliges its clubs to have a minimum number of players under contract. No first team will be promoted to the Eerste Divisie until after 2022–23, but from the end of 2020–21 at first, the highest-ranked second (i.e., reserve) team gains promotion, while the lowest-ranked reserves are relegated to a new under-21 division. An under-23 competition has been established for the Tweede Divisie's amateur clubs that are not directly eligible for its under-21 equivalent. Because of the 2020–21 season's cancellation, promotion or relegation was suspended for five to 10 years in June 2022.

The Netherlands Tweede Divisie is a prominent semi-professional football league that serves as the third tier of the Dutch football league system. Established in 2016, it replaced the former Topklasse and has quickly gained recognition for its competitive spirit and the development of local talent. The league features a diverse array of clubs from across the Netherlands, showcasing a mix of historic teams and emerging clubs eager to make their mark.

The Tweede Divisie operates on a promotion and relegation system with the Tweede Divisie and the Derde Divisie, allowing teams to strive for advancement to higher levels of competition. Matches are held in a vibrant atmosphere, with passionate fans supporting their local teams, creating an engaging experience for players and spectators alike.

Throughout the season, clubs compete for the coveted championship title, while individual players have the opportunity to shine and attract attention from higher-tier teams. The league not only emphasizes competitive play but also focuses on fostering young talent, making it a crucial stepping stone for aspiring footballers in the Netherlands.

With its blend of tradition, ambition, and community spirit, the Netherlands Tweede Divisie continues to be a vital part of the Dutch football landscape, contributing to the rich tapestry of the sport in the country.