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There's a new professional sports team in Minnesota. Announced in 

, Major League Volleyball has gone from an idea to a roster to a coaching staff, and now it has an identity: Minnesota Forge. 

The Forge will begin playing in January 2027 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul.

Michelle Haines is president of the team, and said choosing the name was an intentional process that involved one-on-one conversations, focus groups, stakeholders and players. She said the name Forge ultimately stood out because it reflected the resilience and grit the team wants to embody.

The team unveiled its name and branding Wednesday at a launch event in St. Paul’s Rice Park. Haines said the response from fans and partners was energetic, building on months of community events, camps and clinics. 

The team is already planning additional events, including a court reveal and jersey reveal, before players report in November ahead of the January season.

The Forge currently has 13 players on its roster, coached by Pedro Mendez, with assistant coach CC McGraw. The roster includes former University of Minnesota player Stephanie Samedy, who has played professionally internationally. 

"For so many of the athletes, the pro athletes in volleyball, had to go overseas in order to make a living," Haines said. "These are the best in the world and deserve to play at home." 

Haines said the team is also focused on creating a professional pathway for young volleyball players in Minnesota.

The Forge will be one of two new professional women's volleyball teams coming to Minnesota next year, with League One Volleyball also launching a local team. Both are evidence of the sport's growing popularity — Haines said about 17,000 girls play high school volleyball in Minnesota.

"We are finally going to serve a demand that's there," she said. "And show that there is a path to pro," Haines said. 

Season-ticket deposits are now available, and more information about broadcasts and online merchandise will be on the 

 soon. The team expects the Forge's first game in January to sell out.

Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.

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Minnesota Forge, the state’s new Major League Volleyball team, will begin play in January 2027 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, with a mission to bring top-level women’s volleyball talent home to Minnesota.

Live, down to earth, unscripted interviews that aim to connect, inform and entertain. Real people share real stories with Nina Moini. It’s journalism that doesn’t take itself too seriously and puts people first.

Minnesota Forge ready to serve up a new era of pro volleyball

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