Player's League, often called "PL" is a series of monthly maps players can join. @Aeblemost could confirm if they still are backed by gold checks (In the past, gold was not allowed in them).
Aeblemost can also confirm whether or not there is still an annual or twice-annual prize of gold and High Command for winning (or placing).
They use a series of points, over multiple maps in a marathon-type tournament to show who wins. @K.Rokossovski has ran the PL for over a year, now, and can probably help you further 
