NVL newcomers part four – Manchester Liberators 

Year formed: 2022. 

NVL Coach: James Fung. 

Social media handles: manchester_liberators (Instagram), Manchester Liberators Volleyball Club (Facebook). 

Last year Manchester Liberators’ women’s side clinched promotion from NVL Division 3 North – and now their men’s side want a piece of the action. 

After two successful seasons in the Greater Manchester Volleyball Association (GMVA) League – finishing second in 2024-25 – they feel ready to broaden their horizons and test themselves at a national level. 

Not only that, but the team is aiming high. Far from wanting to simply settle into life in NVl Division 3 North west, they are keen to emulate their female counterparts as soon as possible. 

“We’re really looking forward to competing with high level athletes,” said Bryan Yeung, Men’s team secretary. “After two successful seasons in the local league, our men’s team is seeking a bigger challenge by competing in the NVL. 

“This move aims to further develop the players’ skills and expose them to a higher standard of competition and we want fight for promotion.” 

In a division dominated by teams from Manchester, The Liberators are likely to come up against somefamiliar opposition in the likes of Intervolley Manchester, Manchester Marvels Marauders, Manchester Mos Side Jaguars and Urmston Grammar. 

However, there will also be teams from further afield to compete wih in the shape of Liverpool, Harrogate and Hull Thunder. 

The matches will provide additional opportunites to blood players who have come through the best players as the club looks to widen its talent pool. 

“We organise regular open sessions that welcome players of all levels,” added Bryan. These sessions serve as a platform for potential talents to showcase their skills. 

“Players identified with high potential are invited to join our team training sessions, providing them with a pathway to competitive play.” 

Formed as recently as three years, the club was set up by a group of Hong Kong migrants, and those roots remain strong. 

It remains strongly committed to using volleyball to help Hong Kong migrants integrate into the local community. 

Those connections have helped attract some talented individuals who, it is hoped, will play a key part for the Liberators in 2025-26. 

Bryan said: “Ryan Kong is former Hong Kong national team player with a lot of experience as a player and as a coach, often voted as MVP by the opposition in multiple matches.  

“Samuel Shi will be another important player. After a season in the Super League, he has been selected as one of the top receivers. 

His experience in England and Hong Kong top-flight creates a strong foundation for our team, and his experience is a valuable asset too.”  

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