Quote:
Originally Posted by Gordies Elbow
While the fastest growing market in Alberta might be a turtle race, what evidence supports "a vast amount more corporate wealth to support a franchise"?
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I was just discussing this with someone recently, and they made the point (that I found difficult to dispute) that the Oilers have a larger, and overall, more passionate individual fanbase than the Flames. Sure, they still live in the glory days of the 80's, but the point is, they are still there, and all in, and have stayed loyal through some pretty dismal seasons. Just look at their 50/50 jackpots. Make all the sweat pant jokes you want (and trust me, I will), but I think there is a case to be made that the Oilers have a larger and more invested individual fanbase.
I think the Flames could struggle to keep the season ticket base over 10,000 for next year. Corporate support is going to be down, and people have gotten into the habit of not going to games, and spending a minimum of $150/night. Mix in a team that has some on-ice problems, and it's a recipe for a much reduced season ticket base, due on no small part to the smaller base of individual fans. I know of a few people who are long-term season ticket holders that are not likely to renew for a full package. I feel the team is really going to have to push game packs to put butts in seats when the time comes.
I'm not questioning the loyalty of anyone here. Obviously, if you are on this forum, you are a die hard Flames fan. But, just how many of us are there in this city and province?
The arena deal is going to be very interesting in the immediate future. Lots of posturing on both sides, but who will blink first?