Nelson Bay last played in the Black Diamond Cup competition in the 2008 season, when poor on-field results and dwindling numbers saw the club forced to revert to just one senior team.

Since then the club has gone through a rebuilding program that resulted in the club being able to field two senior sides in 2013.

2013 was a stellar year for the club with their first division side going through the season undefeated and claiming the premiership, after being runner-up the previous three seasons.

The club's second division side also had a wonderful season, claiming the minor premiership before bowing out after losing the preliminary final.

The decision to promote Nelson Bay was made by the BDAFL Board of Management last week as part of confirming the make-up of the 2014 competitions.

A total of 26 teams have been nominated for the 2014 competitions, which is an increase from the 22 teams who participated in the 2013 competitions.

Competition powerhouse Cardiff will field a third team in 2014 while Wyong Lakes will field a second team.

In addition to this, The Entrance Bateau Bay and Muswellbrook will field teams for the first time.

With Nelson Bay gaining promotion to the Black Diamond Cup competition, both that and the first division competitions will consist of eight teams while 10 teams will compete in the second division competition.

The 2014 season will start on Saturday, April 5, with the grand final scheduled for Saturday, September 6.