Classic Connaught derby to kick off the Lidl Ladies National League

Mayo's Lidl Ladies National League Division 1A campaign will get underway against their biggest rivals.

A Connaught derby between Mayo and Galway is certainly one of the highlights of the opening weekend of the competition, with the former enjoying home advantage to kick off their season. Donegal host Westmeath in the second Division 1A game on the opening weekend.

Thereafter, Mayo will travel to Donegal for their round two clash, while they're also away to Westmeath in their third game in the group.

The three rounds of group fixtures will determine the four semi-finalists, with the top team from Division 1A meeting the second-placed team from Division 1B, and vice-versa, to make up the last four.

Division 1B will commence with the battle of league holders Cork against Munster rivals Tipperary, while All-Ireland champions Dublin will square up to Waterford, who they defeated in last's year championship campaign.

One team will be relegated from Division 1 this year, with the winners from Division 2 earning promotion to the top flight.

The opening round fixtures are set to be played on Sunday, May 23, with the three rounds of group fixtures to be played on consecutive weekends. The semi-finals and relegation playoffs are scheduled for the weekend of June 12/13. A two-week break will then follow before the league finals on the weekend of July 26/27.