Nemostars’ disqualification raises questions over fairness and timing

The disqualification of Nemostars Volleyball Club from the 2026 National Volleyball League (NVL) playoff finals has sparked concerns over fairness, timing, and the consistency of rule enforcement in Ugandan volleyball.

Nemostars were removed from the finals after being found guilty of fielding ineligible players, following a petition filed by Elyon Volleyball Club. However, in a strong statement released on Sunday, the club rejected the decision and defended their players, asserting that all had been cleared by the Uganda Volleyball Federation (UVF) at the start of the season.

“Nemostars Volleyball Club officially and categorically rejects a baseless petition filed by Elyon VC regarding the alleged use of ‘illegal’ or ineligible players during the 2026 National Volleyball League playoffs,” the statement read.

The dispute centers on players Salya Marial and Federico Mujinya, whose eligibility has been called into question.

“Nemo maintains that all players fielded throughout the season, specifically Salya Marial and Federico Mujinya, were registered in strict accordance with the Uganda Volleyball Federation (UVF) constitution and the 2022 UVF bylaws,” the club added.

The club noted that both players were cleared before the season began and participated in regular-season matches without any prior objection.

“Our position is supported by the following facts: Valid Registration—All players in question were officially submitted and cleared by the UVF for the 2026 season and participated in regular-season matches without any prior formal objection.”

The situation has led fans and observers to question the consistency of the federation’s decision-making.

Nemostars also challenged the timing of the petition, pointing out that it came when the team was on the verge of winning the title after finishing atop the regular-season standings.

“Malicious Timing: We view this petition as a strategic attempt to disrupt our championship campaign following our successful regular season, where Nemostars finished at the top of the table.”

The club further emphasized its compliance with international standards, stating that it adhered to all FIVB player eligibility and naturalization regulations. The statement added that other clubs fielding non-Ugandan players without valid International Transfer Certificates had not faced similar scrutiny.

According to UVF regulations, clubs must submit entry forms at least one month before the league begins, and only formally affiliated clubs with fully paid player registration fees are eligible to compete. The controversy has prompted broader questions about whether rules are being applied equally across all teams.

Nemostars has vowed to challenge the decision.

“Nemostars VC is currently reviewing the recent communication from the UVF and will use all legal avenues provided by the Uganda Volleyball Federation and higher sporting bodies to appeal any decision that unjustly disqualifies our team from the finals,” the statement concluded.