Minneapolis boasts a dynamic sports culture, with numerous high schools and colleges offering a wide array of athletic programs that cater to diverse interests and talents.
High School Athletics
Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) provide extensive athletic opportunities across various disciplines. The MPS Athletics Department offers 34 high school programs for students in grades 7-12, emphasizing skill development, self-discipline, and teamwork. Middle school students with the requisite skills can also participate in high school teams through the ‘playing up’ policy, fostering early talent development.
Several high schools stand out for their athletic programs:
Minnehaha Academy
Minnehaha Academy offers a comprehensive sports program across all seasons, encouraging multi-sport participation. Notably, the school is part of the SMB Wolfpack Football, a cooperative program with The Blake School, St. Paul Academy and Summit School, and Hope Academy. This collaboration provides varsity and junior varsity teams with a focus on safety and player development.
DeLaSalle High School
DeLaSalle High School offers a variety of athletic programs, including alpine skiing, baseball, basketball, and more. The school emphasizes skill development and teamwork, providing students with opportunities to excel in multiple sports.
Roosevelt High School
Roosevelt High School provides a range of sports, including adaptive soccer, cross country, football, swimming, and more. The school emphasizes respect, honor, and safety in its athletic programs, fostering a positive environment for student-athletes.
College Athletics
The University of Minnesota’s Twin Cities campus is a hub for collegiate sports. As the sixth-largest college in the nation, it supports 25 Division I men’s and women’s sports teams. The Golden Gophers consistently compete for titles in the Big Ten Conference, hosting national events like the Frozen Four and NCAA Basketball Tournaments. Facilities such as Huntington Bank Stadium (football), Williams Arena (basketball), and 3M Arena at Mariucci (hockey) offer fans top-tier venues to support their teams.
For those interested in attending games or supporting local teams, it’s advisable to check the respective schools’ official websites for the most current schedules and ticket information.