Eastbourne Eagles will start life in the third tier with a derby at home to Kent Kings on Good Friday.

The National Trophy clash against Eagles No.1 David Mason's previous club is likely to be staged at 3.30pm although the time has yet to be confirmed.

National League action gets underway at home to King's Lynn later in the month.

Champions Cradley visit Arlington on Sunday, May 24. Slightly surprisingly, Eagles will only stage a total of three home fixtures in June and July but could have a busy August at Arlington, when reserve dates are available.

Home fixtures will typically be run at 3.30pm on Sundays.

April: 3 Kent (h, Trophy); 6 Kent (a, Trophy); 12 USA Dream Team (h, challenge); 19 King's Lynn (h); 22 Cradley (a).

May: 3 Stoke (h); 4 Rye House (a); 10 Rye House (h, Trophy), 17 Mildenhall (a); 20 Birmingham (a, Cup); 24 Cradley (h); 31 Birmingham (h, Cup).

June: 7 Rye House (h); 13 Rye House (a); 21 Kent (h); 22 Kent (a).

July: 5 Mildenhall (a, Trophy); 12 Buxton (a); 18 Stoke (a); 19 Coventry (h); 24 Coventry (a).

August: 7 King's Lynn (a); 9 Buxton (h); 23 Birmingham (h); 30 Mildenhall (h).

September: 2 Birmingham (a); 20 Mildenhall (h, Trophy).