Home / Sports / Minnesota Forge: Pro Volleyball's Newest Powerhouse Arrives
Minnesota Forge: Pro Volleyball's Newest Powerhouse Arrives
12 Aug
Summary
- Major League Volleyball adds a 12th team, the Minnesota Forge, based in St. Paul.
- Minnesota's strong volleyball participation and existing sports culture are key factors.
- The Forge will play home games at Grand Casino Arena starting January 2025.
Major League Volleyball (MLV) has officially launched its 12th franchise, the Minnesota Forge, based in St. Paul. This expansion is significantly fueled by Minnesota's established and growing volleyball culture, with the state ranking fourth nationally in participation and boasting over 17,000 players. The ownership group, led by Wild owner Craig Leipold, sees great potential for a professional women's volleyball team.
The Forge will play their inaugural season starting in January 2025, with half of their 26 regular-season games scheduled for St. Paul at Grand Casino Arena. This move taps into a Midwest hotbed for volleyball talent, with numerous collegiate programs and a passionate fan base.
MLV emphasizes its distinction from other leagues by operating with robust governance, bylaws, and a salary cap, mimicking traditional major sports leagues. The league has seen significant fan engagement since its 2024 inception, drawing nearly 400,000 fans in its last season. The Minnesota Forge aims to be a flagship franchise for the growing sport.
