NVL newcomers part 14 – Everton Seadragons 

Formed: 2021. 

NVL Coach: Varuna Venkatesh. 

Social media handles: @evertonvolleyball_uk (Instagram), Everton Volleyball (Facebook). 

Website: evertonvolleyball.co.uk 

It’s a sign of the strength in depth at Everton Volleyball that their women’s section is to imminently enter a third team into the NVL. 

The 2025-26 campaign will see the Seadragons join their sister sides Everton Belugas (Division 1) and Everton Narwhals (Division 3), meaning the Merseysiders will have representation at all three levels of the national pyramid. 

It is a remarkable success story for a club that only formed as recently as 2021 in the walk of the Covid-19 Pandemic and has gone from strength to strength ever since. 

For coach Varuna Venkatesh, the goal for the first season is simple - develop players, compete ‘fiercely’ and build a strong foundation for future seasons. 

“Last season, our players competed as the Everton Seahorses in the Merseyside Volleyball League Division 1 where the focus was on development... making sure everyone got meaningful court time and experience,” she said. 

“We had full squads week in, week out, and the depth of our roster was one of our biggest strengths. While results weren’t the top priority, we still had some stand-out moments – finishing second in the Des Jeffers Cup was a highlight and gave the group a taste of what they could achieve when everything clicked. 

“What we’re most excited about this season is measuring ourselves against teams from across the North and experiencing the intensity of the NVL. 

“It’s a big step up, and we know it will push us – but that’s exactly what we want. We’re looking forward to those first wins that come from hard graft, the chance to build new strengths and friendships, and to seeing our players grow in confidence as the season goes on.” 

Like their other sides, the Everton Seadragons will be based at Litherland High School, with their first match a triangular against Manchester Marvels and York Falcons on Sunday 5th October. 

They will also face the likes of, Urmston Grammar, Isle of Man Falcons, Leeds Gorse, Hull Thunder, Chester Amazons, Newcastle Staffs 2 in a division that in predominantly, but not exclusively, based in the North West. 

Varuna added: “For us, the step up to NVL Division 3 is all about creating the right competitive environment for players who’ve outgrown the regional league, but aren’t quite at Division 2 level yet. 

“Everton Volleyball has always been about providing opportunities at every stage, and we’ve now got a group of players who are ready for this challenge. 

“The NVL will give them the platform to test themselves, grow, and show what they’re capable of – while keeping the Seahorses going as a home for new and developing players.” 

Everton are looking to a quartet of players to spearhead their first campaign at the national level. 

A number of the team have been able to prepare for what is to come indoors by playing in the Crosby Beach Volleyball tournaments run every summer by the club. 

“Zining Tan joins the Seadragons with valuable Division 2 experience,” said Varuna. “As our libero, she brings speed, sharp reactions, and real energy to the court. Her calm leadership in defense will also help keep the team steady in tough moments. 

“Mona Dimitrova is our captain and sets the standard for the group with her hard work and commitment. 

“She plays as an outside hitter, combining solid attacking with strong all-round skills. Above all, she leads by example and keeps the team’s spirit high. 

“Then there’s Elena Mellado, who is a powerful and reliable outside hitter. She plays with speed in attack and works tirelessly in defense, often covering more ground than anyone else 

“Her consistency makes her one of the team’s most dependable players. 

“Lastly, Chenai Kanoyangwa is one of our youngest players and returns to Everton after spending the summer with the Zimbabwe youth national team. 

“She brings height and strength at the net, along with a fearless approach to the game. We’re excited to see her continue to grow throughout the season.”