#United States #Saint Paul #Major League Volleyball #Minnesota Sports Entertainment #Grand Casino Arena

Major League Volleyball Expands to Minnesota

Major League Volleyball (MLV), the leading professional volleyball league in the United States, is excited to announce the addition of its newest franchise based in Minnesota. Scheduled to commence in 2027, this expansion will increase the league roster to 11 teams.

The MLV Minnesota franchise will be predominantly owned and run by Minnesota Sports Entertainment (MSE), a notable name in regional sports that includes franchises like the NHL's Minnesota Wild and the AHL's Iowa Wild. Craig Leipold, the principal investor and majority owner, expressed his enthusiasm about this new venture. He noted, "Minnesota boasts a thriving volleyball scene that continues to grow. We can’t wait for fans to experience top-tier volleyball at the Grand Casino Arena."

The upcoming franchise is set to join an impressive group of league owners, which includes sports executives who have a long-standing influence in various professional sports. Notable examples include Dan DeVos, who chairs the Orlando Magic, and Jason Levien, CEO of DC United. The new team in Northern California will be led by notable figures like Vivek Ranadivé of the Sacramento Kings and venture capitalist Theresia Gouw.

The franchise's home matches will take place at the Grand Casino Arena, a multi-purpose venue that also hosts the Minnesota Wild and PWHL's Minnesota Frost. Leipold highlighted how the Twin Cities reflect all the essential factors they seek in a franchise market, including a rich sports culture and high interest in volleyball, which is crucial for the club's success.

Scott Gorsline, the president of the Grand Rapids Rise and MLV Board of Directors co-chair, said, "This milestone for Major League Volleyball signifies our commitment to bringing elite women’s sports to enthusiastic communities across the U.S." The growing presence of MLV in Minnesota will further consolidate the league's footprint, with Minneapolis-St. Paul ranking as the 16th largest media market in the nation. This strategic expansion underscores the league’s objective of enhancing its reach and visibility.

Moreover, the Minnesota franchise is backed by minority investors including prominent figures such as Tim Connelly from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Matt Mithun of Minnesota United FC, and co-founders of Anytime Fitness, Chuck Runyon and Dave Mortensen. This collective of local stakeholders is seen as pivotal for successfully establishing professional women’s volleyball in the area. Mithun stated, "Investing in women's professional sports in Minnesota fortifies our community's commitment to developing our athletes and engaging local support."

About Major League Volleyball

As it opens its third season, MLV stands out as the longest-running formal professional league for women in the U.S., crafted to uplift the sport through elite competition and innovative approaches. The league aligns with USA Volleyball and emphasizes Olympic development, providing a crucial pathway for athletes aspiring for international recognition. For further insights into their mission, visit ProVolleyball.com.

About Minnesota Sports Entertainment

Minnesota Sports Entertainment (MSE) not only owns the NHL’s Minnesota Wild but will also manage the new MLV team in addition to various significant sports venues including the Grand Casino Arena. Their portfolio is designed around delivering exceptional entertainment experiences while effectively incorporating sustainable practices into their operations.

About Grand Casino Arena

Recognized as one of the premier venues globally, the Grand Casino Arena is structured to host a variety of sports and entertainment events every year. Their dedication to sustainability and community impact is a testament to their ongoing commitment to providing stellar experiences for all visitors.

As Minnesota steps into the realm of professional volleyball, the excitement surrounding MLV’s expansion is palpable. With a dedicated leadership team and passionate community backing, the future seems bright for volleyball in this vibrant state.