The Albany Firewolves announced a six-year arena deal extension with the MVP Arena in Albany. The Firewolves have played at the Arena since moving to Albany in advance of the 2022 season.
“We are here today because we are excited to announce a six-year arena deal with the MVP,” said Firewolves Partner and CEO Oliver Marti. Marti referenced that the building had been strong partners to the Firewolves, particularly coming out of the COVID pandemic and through the new renovations that took place at the arena.
According to a tweet from the team, the deal provides a three-year extension on the existing three-year agreement, bringing the total to a six-year extension.
“This is a commitment that we are making to the Albany Community,” said Jaden Krueger, the Firewolves Director of Game Presentation. “We are committed to bringing the highest level of lacrosse to the Albany area and the greater Capital region, and in order to make that commitment, we need that commitment right back from MVP arena.”
“It’s something that’s great for the building, it’s great for the employees,” said Bob Belber, the General Manager of ASM Global and the MVP Arena. “The downtown businesses really survive based on what we bring in this building. Having nine extra games, plus playoffs, means a whole lot.”
Marti also announced some changes for the upcoming season as well, including making the games more affordable for families.
“One of the things we’ve tried to do is lower our pricing,” said Marti. “This year we are proud to say that all of our pricing across all our price points have come down this year. In addition, we have added two lower priced ticket options and those should really allow anybody that wants to come and enjoy an experience at the game that opportunity.”
Marti also said that fans can expect some new food and beverage options at lower price points as well.
The club made the announcement in a live press conference on Wednesday, which aired on the team’s Youtube. Check out the full press conference below!
The arena hosted the first game of the NLL finals last season as the Firewolves made a long playoff run. The team averaged 3,962 fans per home game last season, per www.nllstats.com. The arena was opened originally in 1997, but has undergone several renovations in it’s history, most recently in advance of the Firewolves inaugural season in Albany in 2022.
The arena is owned by Albany County, and profits from the arena are delivered back to the county itself.