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New and readmitted NVL teams for 26-27

The teams who have been newly-admitted or readmitted to the National Volleyball League (NVL) for the 2026-27 season can now be confirmed.

The five women’s teams and six men’s teams maintain the number in each of the sections, across all divisions, to the maximum 84.

This year’s applicants were accepted following a thorough selection process that was defined by an NVL advisory group made up of a range of people from the league’s community.

The successful teams were chosen from 26 applicants who were scored in the areas of people infrastructure, team performance, club infrastructure and facilities – and the clubs with the best scores will join the league from the autumn.

Those who did not secure a place this time have been given feedback on areas they can improve for any future application they may submit.

All clubs who applied, whether successful or not, have already been notified of their respective outcomes.

“As was the case last year, the level of applications to join the NVL was very high, which is very encouraging in light of our bid to drive up standards across the league,” said Beth Willetts, Volleyball England’s Project Lead for An Ace Service.

“The Competitions Working Group have made decisions on which teams to accept into the league based on the four key areas outlined in the criteria – and there were some very tough decisions with some strong applications missing out.

“We congratulate all those teams who have won a place and look forward to seeing how they perform in the 2026-27 season.”

“As is now customary, we will be introducing the new teams to volleyball’s communities over the summer break across our website and social media channels, and we wish them well for when the action gets underway.”

Clubs should also note that UrBond Portsmouth have changed their name to Portsmouth City ahead of the new season.