I would prefer to run an Escalation League. 8 to 10 weeks. Armies starting at 500 points. Taking a point bump every two weeks. 2 points for a win. 1 point for a loss.
Extra points awarded if your X point army is painted before the next point bump. Points awarded for attendance. 100 point jump every 2 weeks till we hit 1000 points.
That kind of thing. Something to build a strong player community have fun get everybody comfortable with the rule and their armies.