Its story inspired the creation of the Viu TV series We are the Littles, starring Stephy Tang Lai-yan as the female manager and members of the boy band Mirror as team members.

In a variety show, members of Inpsiring Volleyball Team also played a demonstration match with Tang and other actors in the drama.

But the public limelight did not bring good fortunes to the team, as it said it lost its full membership after fellow members raised doubts about it.

The Volleyball Association made the decision back in April and notified the team in May, the team said. It did not explain on what grounds did it deprive the team of the full membership.

“Many sports teams are working silently to make contribution to the local volleyball scene, but they do not get any resources. Who have control over the resources?” The team stated in its official Instagram account.

“The Olympics wave passed. Do you still support athletes? Do you still care about the unfairness faced by local athletes?”

The Volleyball Association said it is looking into the case and offers no further comment.