Now that I've gotten back into the game in more detail, not much has changed. Some new coaches. Utopia league to address the 2nd team problem.
Overall though, I still really like this game. What appeals to me most is the prospect development, finding out optimal training schedules, projecting out long term, etc.
I should promote to D2 at season's end, but it looks like I'll get my ass caved in at D2 unless I invest heavily in talent. I'm kind of expecting to yo yo between 2 and 3 for a couple seasons before I gain a stronger foothold in D2, with an adequate arena and so on.
I wish the transfer market was a little stronger, seems relatively easy to find players to buy, but selling for profit is difficult.