Saginaw, October 16, 2025
The Saginaw-based Michigan Arsenal has officially joined the Arena Football 1 league, marking a significant development in local sports. Fans are eager to witness high-energy games that the team promises to deliver, as this move is likely to boost community involvement and offer more entertainment opportunities in mid-Michigan. The arrival of the Michigan Arsenal brings new excitement to the region’s sports landscape, and supporters are looking forward to cheering on their local team.
Saginaw Welcomes New Arena Football Team: Michigan Arsenal Joins AF1 League
Saginaw, Michigan – The Michigan Arsenal has been officially announced as the newest franchise in the Arena Football 1 (AF1) league, set to begin play in the 2026 season. This development brings professional arena football back to Saginaw, with games scheduled to take place at the Dow Event Center.
Team Details and Leadership
The Michigan Arsenal is owned by George Bradford, a former Google executive with a strong background in business strategy and technology leadership. The team will be coached by Shawn Liotta, who has over 26 years of experience in professional, collegiate, and high school football. Liotta is known for developing high-scoring offenses and leading teams to championships, including back-to-back titles with the Erie Explosion in 2012 and 2013.
Community Engagement and Venue
Team officials emphasize that the Michigan Arsenal is more than just a football team; it is a movement built on pride, performance, and community. The franchise aims to make game days at the Dow Event Center a full community experience, combining sports, music, and family entertainment. The Dow Event Center, located at 303 Johnson Street in Saginaw, has a seating capacity of 5,527 for hockey and 5,201 for indoor football, making it an ideal venue for the team’s home games.
League Background
Arena Football 1 was founded in September 2024 and completed its first season in 2025. The league features fast-paced, high-scoring games that have garnered a dedicated fan base. Under the leadership of Commissioner Jeff Fisher, AF1 has expanded its reach, adding teams like the Michigan Arsenal to its lineup for the upcoming 2026 season. The league has also secured a national television deal with VICE TV, aiming to bring arena football to a broader audience.
Looking Ahead
As the Michigan Arsenal prepares for its inaugural season, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of arena football that promises to energize the Saginaw community. The team’s official website is currently under construction and will debut later this year as the Michigan Arsenal’s official online home. More information about the 2026 season schedule and ticket sales will be released soon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Michigan Arsenal?
The Michigan Arsenal is a professional arena football team based in Saginaw, Michigan, set to join the Arena Football 1 (AF1) league for the 2026 season.
Where will the Michigan Arsenal play their home games?
The team will play its home games at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw, Michigan.
Who is the owner of the Michigan Arsenal?
The Michigan Arsenal is owned by George Bradford, a former Google executive with a strong background in business strategy and technology leadership.
Who is the head coach of the Michigan Arsenal?
The team will be coached by Shawn Liotta, who has over 26 years of experience in professional, collegiate, and high school football.
When does the Michigan Arsenal’s inaugural season begin?
The Michigan Arsenal is set to begin play in the 2026 season, with games scheduled to take place at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw.
Where can I find more information about the Michigan Arsenal?
The team’s official website is currently under construction and will debut later this year as the Michigan Arsenal’s official online home. More information about the 2026 season schedule and ticket sales will be released soon.
Key Features of Michigan Arsenal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Team Name | Michigan Arsenal |
| League | Arena Football 1 (AF1) |
| Inaugural Season | 2026 |
| Venue | Dow Event Center |
| Owner | George Bradford |
| Head Coach | Shawn Liotta |
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Author: Construction MI News
MICHIGAN STAFF WRITER The MICHIGAN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionminews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Michigan and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Michigan Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Michigan and the Home Builders Association of Michigan, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Miller Canfield LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
