Minnesota sports updates: St. Cloud State volleyball and Vikings flag football initiatives

St. Cloud State University volleyball is beginning its season at the Up North Tournament in Marquette. After finishing the last two seasons ranked #5 in Division II and reaching the NCAA Sweet 16, the Huskies face a rebuilding period following the graduation of six seniors, including key middle blockers and an opposite side hitter. Head coach Chad Braegelmann noted that while veteran hitters Abby Wachaland and Shelby Kim may need to carry a heavier workload initially, the team has remained competitive during summer exhibition games.

In Minnesota, the Vikings are supporting the expansion of girls flag football with the goal of having it sanctioned as a varsity sport under the Minnesota State High School League. The initiative has seen significant growth, with the number of participating programs in the state increasing from 51 teams to 104 teams by the 2026 season. The Vikings recently hosted the 2026 Girls Flag Football State Championship, which was won by Rosemount High School.