GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Michigan Volleyball Academy (MVA) is thrilled to announce an exciting branding and facilities partnership with the Grand Rapids Rise, the newly formed women’s professional volleyball team based in Grand Rapids, Mich. This strategic collaboration brings together two organizations that are focused on developing the sport of volleyball and signaling a new era of growth and opportunity for aspiring athletes in the region.
Starting in the 2023-24 season, MVA will launch Rise Academy, an innovative addition to its club program. Positioned as the Elite branch of MVA, Rise Academy represents a first-of-its kind model that embodies a relentless pursuit of excellence in all facets of the game, as it carries on where traditional club volleyball models stop short. Beyond physical skills and prowess, Rise Academy focuses on cultivating mental toughness, a desire to thrive under pressure, and the resilience to rise above obstacles, recognizing that these are not just attributes needed for athletics, but for life.
With a deep understanding of West Michigan athletes’ aspirations to play at the highest levels, Rise Academy prioritizes and takes an active role in facilitating collegiate recruitment. A dedicated, full-time recruiting coordinator provides personalized guidance, while athletes gain access to premier volleyball recruiting software, enabling them to showcase their talents effectively. Moreover, Rise Academy leverages innovative resources, including top-tier consultants, training apps, video software, and highly competitive schedules, empowering athletes to push past their limitations and reach their full potential.
Through this transformative alliance, young athletes associated with MVA will gain exclusive access to mentorship programs and support by Rise players and staff as well as exposure to professional games. By leveraging their resources, expertise, and collective vision, MVA and the Rise will provide these athletes with invaluable guidance that will fuel their growth and success in the sport. This partnership represents a shared commitment to fostering a love for volleyball and advancing the sport at all levels, aiming to establish a seamless pathway for young players to progress from grassroots participation to the professional ranks.
As part of this exciting partnership, the Rise will be constructing a state-of-the-art locker room facility within the MSA Fieldhouse. This facility will serve as the primary training and practice gym for the team, providing essential amenities such as locker rooms, coaching offices, a players’ lounge, and sports medicine support. With this dedicated space, the Rise aim to create a conducive environment for their athletes and coaches, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to excel in their training and preparation.
Sam Nichols, Executive Director of Michigan Sports Academies: “We are ecstatic to forge this relationship with the Grand Rapids Rise. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our mission to empower and inspire young athletes, while providing them with unparalleled opportunities for growth. By combining our strengths, we will create an environment that fosters talent, propels players forward, and reshapes the volleyball landscape in our region. We are incredibly excited about the positive impact this partnership will have on the volleyball community in West Michigan and women’s sports as a whole.”
Cole DeVos, DP Fox Director of Strategic Investments: “Michigan Volleyball Academy has long been recognized for its dedication to developing young talent and promoting the sport of volleyball. We are thrilled to join forces with MVA in this partnership, which solidifies our commitment to nurturing the sport at all levels. Together, we will create a seamless pathway for aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. We cannot wait to witness the incredible talent and passion that will emerge from this collaboration.”
Michigan Volleyball Academy and the Grand Rapids Rise look forward to working together to make a lasting impact on the volleyball community in Grand Rapids and beyond. This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting era characterized by collaboration, innovation, and shared success, as these two influential organizations come together to shape the future of volleyball in the region. For all information updates on the Rise Academy, please visit grriseacademy.com.
About the Grand Rapids Rise
Founded in December 2022 as the first Pro Volleyball Federation franchise and Grand Rapids’ first major-league women’s sports team, the Grand Rapids Rise will make their debut at Van Andel Arena in January 2024. Led by longtime Michigan State and Western Michigan head coach Cathy George, the Rise’s 14-player roster will play 24 games (12 home, 12 away) during their inaugural season. The team is operated by DP Fox Sports & Entertainment and owned by Dan DeVos, who is also co-owner and CEO of the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Visit grrise.com.
About Michigan Volleyball Academy
Michigan Volleyball Academy (MVA) is a premier volleyball club based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With a mission to inspire, educate, and empower young athletes, MVA offers comprehensive training programs, competitive opportunities, and a supportive community that fosters growth and excellence. MVA is part of Michigan Sports Academies’ larger youth sports program that also includes the Michigan Futbol Academy and the Michigan Basketball Academy. MSA runs club teams, camps, and competitions throughout West Michigan with hubs in Grand Rapids, Holland, and Muskegon. Visit michigansportsacademies.com/mva/ for
more details.
