A new chapter is taking shape for volleyball in Minnesota. The state's Major League Volleyball expansion franchise, once billed as MLV Minnesota, introduced itself Wednesday as the Minnesota Forge, with tipoff set for January 2027.
Minnesota Forge Joins Major League Volleyball Expansion
Behind the name is a nod to grit built through pressure and purpose.
Team president Michelle Haines said Forge reflects "resilience, craftsmanship, and the strength that comes from community." The palette carries that theme, pairing deep greens with Northern Lights purple, Lady Slipper pink, Night Sky, and Snowfall. Those colors also celebrate the state's rich, natural beauty.
Investing in Minnesota Volleyball
The new brand rollout signals majority owner Craig Leipold is committing to long-term investment in women's professional sports in Minnesota.
Leipold, who also owns the NHL's Minnesota Wild, is planting roots in a state with roughly 450 high school volleyball programs and more than 17,000 athletes.
The Forge is one of five expansion clubs joining Major League Volleyball for 2027, pushing the league to 12 teams in its fourth season. Once play begins, home matches will take place at Grand Casino Arena in downtown St. Paul.
Season ticket options are now open online.
