JACK LARSON
Vice President/General Manager, Xcel Energy Center

Larson joined the organization in September of 2001 and serves as Vice President/General Manager, Xcel Energy Center. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the arena including securing and promoting events, attractions and shows for the venue. Larson also focuses his attention on effectively supporting the requirements of the Minnesota Wild, the National Lacrosse League’s Minnesota Swarm and all other events that are staged at Xcel Energy Center.

Larson and his staff continue to bring high-profile events to the arena and the city of Saint Paul. The spotlight has shined bright on Xcel Energy Center as it has hosted premier events such as the 2006 Visa Championships, the 2004 NHL All-Star Game, the World Cup of Hockey 2004 and concerts such as The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, Shania Twain, Eric Clapton, Barbra Streisand, Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, Kenny Chesney and Metallica. In addition, he has been instrumental in making such high profile events as the 2002 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four, Minnesota State High School League tournaments, Women of Faith and the WCHA Final Five successful at Xcel Energy Center.

Larson, 53 (7/17/54), has more than 31 years of experience in the arena operations field. Prior to joining Minnesota Sports & Entertainment (MSE), the Richfield, Minnesota, native spent seven years (1994-2001) as the Assistant Executive Director of Operations at Target Center. He handled scheduling, booking and contracting events, along with budgeting for the operations of the building and hiring and training of the staff to operate the facility. From 1991 to 1994, Larson was a part of the San Jose Arena Management Corporation and the National Hockey League’s (NHL) San Jose Sharks. He served as Director of Booking and Operations and oversaw the opening of the new San Jose Arena, in addition to the start-up of operations for NHL hockey in the 50-year-old Cow Palace. Before moving to San Jose, Larson started his arena operations career in Minnesota at Met Center where he worked from 1970 to 1991. He held a number of positions including Director of Met Center and Director of Operations, Met Center. In those roles, Larson was responsible for the day-to-day operations including renting and staffing the facility for all events.

Larson and his wife, Sherry, have two children, Laura and Jake. He enjoys golfing, playing hockey, softball, fishing and rollerblading in his free time. The family resides in Lakeville.