The format was changed once again for the 2009 Championship. The Derry Competitions Control Committee accepted a proposal to scrap the group stage and introduce a "backdoor" system. The 16 clubs play in the first round.
The format of the 2009 Championship was altered once again, with the Derry Competitions Control Committee deciding to eliminate the group stage and introduce a "backdoor" system. The 16 clubs participated in the initial round.