Minnesota United FC announced on Thursday that they have sold more than 8,000 season ticket deposits for 2017 since announcing four weeks ago that they would join Major League Soccer next year.
Minnesota, who are constructing their own soccer-specific stadium in St. Paul, will play at the University of Minnesota’s TCF Bank Stadium in 2017. Minnesota revealed that they’ll primarily use the roughly 22,500-capacity lower bowl at TCF Bank Stadium for MLS matches next year, but that the entire venue – which seats approximately 50,000 – could be opened up for special occasions.
“The overwhelming support we have received since officially announcing our entry into Major League Soccer has been amazing,” Minnesota United president Nick Rogers said in a statement released by the club. “It’s hugely gratifying to be a part of bringing MLS to Minnesota. The passion from our current fans and the incredible interest from our newest fans is very rewarding for everyone throughout our organization.”
Minnesota are averaging 7,941 fans per game at NSC Stadium in suburban Blaine, Minnesota in NASL matches this year and drew more than 18,000 fans for a friendly at the Minnesota Twins’ Target Field over the summer. They announced that full season ticket packages will go on sale beginning on Oct. 1.
The club also announced that the first 11,842 fans – 11,482 is the number of lakes in Minnesota, which is colloquially known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” – who place season ticket deposits for the 2017 season will be given seat selection priority at TCF Bank Stadium and will be recognized in the club’s soccer-specific stadium in St. Paul.
Minnesota will be one of two expansion teams to join MLS in 2017 along with Atlanta United FC.
