Stalwarts call time on NVL careers

Steve Grimes, of Wiltshire Mavericks, and Martin Worsnop, of Hull Thunder, are ending their time on the court following the conclusion of the 25-26 NVL regular season. 

Having begun his career in the 1982-83 season playing for Coventry Riga, Steve, now 65, went on to play for eight clubs in all. 

After his stint in the West Midlands, he subsequently turned out for Speedwell, Round Wood, Essex Estonians, Thames Valley, Gloucester, Bristol and most latterly the Mavericks. 

“Volleyball has been my life, and it’s been a privilege to have been able to continue to play all these years, with few injuries along the way,” said Steve. 

“I will still play volleyball and will be playing in Division 1 at Whitefield this year. Having been relegated to Division 3 and some players leaving, I may still register next year, but let’s see.” 

Steve is pictured playing for Essex Estonians, believed to be in 1985 and is number four. Volleyball England Hall of Fame member Ian LeGrand was the teams’ coach. 

Martin, 61, has been part of the Hull Thunder 2 side who has competed in Division 3 North of the NVL this season. 

In addition to his playing duties, he has also put in a significant amount of time into the Humberside club off the court too. 

He has acted in administrative roles to help Hull establish a system where young players can rise through the ranks and has also helped ensure that the city is one of the last areas in the UK currently still running a local league. 

“While limited records in early years means it is hard to verify who holds the record of having played for the most seasons, both Steve and Martin will undoubtedly be in the top echelon of that particular category,” said Volleyball England Chief Executive Officer, Charlie Ford. 

“Both Steve and Martin have been shining lights in our sport and great role models for those they have played with and against them. 

“Their longevity, durability and determination are not in question and I hope they have a happy retirement from playing – although I hope, with their incredible experience, they will stay involved with the sport in some capacity.” 

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