NVL Newcomers 26-27 part six - Legends Oldham

Club formed: 2024

Social media handles: @legendsvc2025 (Instagram), @legendsvolleyballuk (TikTok), Legends Volleyball Club (Facebook)

Website: legendsvolleyball.co.uk

The Manchester based squad, founded in December 2024, are looking to make their presence known, and fleeting, in Division 3 North of the NVL. 

The club was formed to create a clearer pathway for volleyball in the Greater Manchester area, striking a balance between grassroots, amateur initiatives and high-level competitive volleyball - the latter being something they’ve already had a taste of since forming.

On top of winning the Greater Manchester Local League 2 and making itself known as a quickly developing team, Legends enjoyed a stellar run of form through the 2025/26 National Shield, making it all the way to the final without dropping a single set.

They would fall against Darkstar Derbyshire in a tightly contested 3-2 loss, but the run of form is certainly encouraging for their NVL prospects - especially as Darkstar are multiple leagues above the Oldham team. 

Although they officially formed less than two years ago, head coach Rafal Lojewski makes clear that their success isn’t just lightning in a bottle, and they have their eyes set on challenging the top end of the table straight away.

“The foundations of the project have been developing for some time beforehand through local volleyball initiatives, coaching, and community engagement in Greater Manchester.

“Our ambition for the club’s first NVL season is to be competitive from the beginning and challenge for promotion to Division 2. 

“While we understand the level and demands of the NVL, the club is ambitious both on and off the court, and we believe the squad has the quality and experience to compete towards the top end of the division.”

Lowjeski sees his squad as strong and experienced, but identifies two individuals who are expected to help propel Legends to new heights.

Ben Lucas, who has represented England internationally nearly 20 times, brings high-level tournament experience and professionalism both on and off the court as well as supporting the development of the younger players within the team. 

Chester Searle also brings heaps of experience from over 10 years of competing in high level English Volleyball for multiple Super League teams, as well as passing on key skills such as composure, leadership and knowledge of the game to steer the club during their debut NVL season.

Their foray into the NVL is seen as the next logical step in the teams’ growth and development.

“Joining the NVL will help the club attract and develop players, raise standards on and off the court, and continue growing volleyball within Oldham and Greater Manchester.

“We are most looking forward to experiencing the level and professionalism of the NVL, competing against strong clubs from across the country, and continuing to grow as an organisation both on and off the court. 

“It will also be a great opportunity for our players, supporters, and local community to be part of the next stage of the club’s journey.”

Outside of the NVL, Legends have a strong presence in junior development, running dedicated “Learn to Play” sessions for young athletes and volleyball beginners, as well as looking to expand its’ junior structure and partner with local schools to offer more individuals the chance to pick up the ball. 

“As a newly formed club, we are proud of the progress made in a short period of time and excited for the opportunity to represent Oldham and Greater Manchester in the NVL. 

“The club remains committed to growing volleyball locally while building a sustainable and ambitious long-term project.”

Legends Oldham will begin their NVL campaign against Newcastle Staffs 2 and Urmston Grammar on 10th October, before heading into a Manchester derby against Marvels Mauraders and fellow newcomers Everton Manatees on 1st November.

You can keep up to date with the NVL here.