Virginia is unique in that it is the most populous U.S. state without a major professional sports league franchise (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL) playing within its borders. However, it is home to several professional teams in various minor leagues.
Here’s a list of professional sports teams in Virginia:
Baseball (Minor League):
- Fredericksburg Nationals (Carolina League – Single-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals)
- Lynchburg Hillcats (Carolina League – Single-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians)
- Norfolk Tides (International League – Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles)
- Richmond Flying Squirrels (Eastern League – Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants)
- Salem Red Sox (Carolina League – Single-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox)
Ice Hockey (Minor League):
- Blue Ridge Bobcats (Federal Prospects Hockey League)
- Norfolk Admirals (ECHL)
- Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs (SPHL)
Soccer:
- Loudoun United FC (USL Championship)
- Old Glory DC (Major League Rugby – while headquartered in Washington D.C., they began playing at Segra Field near Leesburg, Virginia in 2021)
- Richmond Kickers (USL League One)
It’s worth noting that many Virginians consider the major professional teams based in Washington, D.C. (e.g., Washington Commanders, Washington Capitals, Washington Nationals, Washington Wizards) as their local teams, as their practice facilities and operational headquarters are sometimes located in Virginia.