NVL newcomers part one – Sussex Dolphins 2 (women) 

Year formed: Early 1990s. 

NVL coach:  Jason Lock 

Social media handle: @dolphinvolleyballclub (Instagram) 

Sussex Dolphins 2 come into their first NVL season on the high of having won Division 2 of their local league in Sussex. 

They were also celebrating NVL success when their first team finished strongly to win the 2024-25 NVL Division 3 South East title as well – and the new team will be strengthened by the addition of some of the senior players from that side. 

NVL secretary Paula Dickens is looking forward to seeing how the young players the club have been developing over the last few years will handle senior volleyball. 

“It’s going to be great to see the team grow together and in the skills they have as the season unfolds,” she said. 

Continuing the Junior development at the club was a big motivator in applying for a second team to join the NVL. 

“We have had an influx of Juniors who have had a few years to build their skills and now we would like to give them the opportunity to develop their skills further playing at a faster pace in National League competition. 

The club is based in the Haywards Heath / Burgess Hill area of the county in their name and “are a friendly team for players of all abilities”. 

It has men's and women's teams participating in competitive games in the Sussex Local League as well as in the National League. 

The effort in developing young players has been boosted by holding regular after-school clubs in local schools. 

Paula added: “If we can finish in second half of the league, avoiding relegation, that would be a strong first year for this team as we look to establish ourselves. 

Two players who the Dolphin will be able to count upon are ready to make their mark. 

“Jessica Lock is a strong player, who has been around volleyball since she was born,” said Paula. “She is a great support for the Juniors and a stable performer. 

“She helps organise the Local League teams and is always ready to help and coach any player.  

“Rosie Ridley’s volleyball skills have grown immensely this season: her block through middle, her reading the game and her positive attitude. It will be exciting to see her skills grow even more this season.” 

You can find out more about the club on its website and by following them on Instagram.