GE Vernova Park names acting GM in the final weeks before first game

GE Vernova Park has appointed Trey Kolak as acting general manager of the facility, which be a soccer stadium and more for the community.

Kolak will lead stadium operations, guest experience initiatives and strategic planning as the Upstate prepares for the opening of the venue on June 3.

Kolak brings experience in venue management, event operations and sports facility development, positioning GE Vernova Park for its debut as a destination for sports, entertainment and community engagement, according to a news release. The stadium, located at BridgeWay Station in Mauldin, will serve as the new home of the Greenville Triumph and Greenville Liberty while hosting a variety of events throughout the year.

As acting general manager, Kolak will oversee operational readiness, venue partnerships, fan experience strategy and event execution leading into its inaugural event hosting the Greenville Triumph, when thousands of fans are expected to attend the first match at GE Vernova Park.

“It is an incredible honor to step into this role and help bring GE Vernova Park to life,” Kolak said in the news release. “This venue represents more than just a stadium; it is a community gathering place built to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans, families and partners throughout the Upstate. Our team is focused on creating an environment that reflects innovation, energy and a commitment to excellence as we prepare for opening in June.”

GE Vernova Park is designed as a modern, multi-use venue capable of hosting professional soccer matches, concerts, corporate gatherings, festivals and community events. The stadium will open with a capacity of 6,300 for sports events and is designed to accommodate up to 15,000 attendees for non-sports events through on-field activation.

Wallace Cheves, chairman and governor of Greenville Pro Soccer, emphasized the importance of leadership during the stadium’s launch phase.

“Trey’s leadership, experience and understanding of venue operations make him the ideal person to guide GE Vernova Park through this milestone,” Cheves said in the release. “As we prepare to welcome fans for the first time this June, we are confident Trey will ensure GE Vernova Park delivers a high-quality experience that reflects the vision of Greenville Pro Soccer and our partners.”