I can't believe that we still have to say it, but having fans sit miles from the field does not make for a good soccer experience. I understand that other suitable options may not exist, but they have to figure it out somehow.
Valour in a mostly empty CFL stadium, albeit a "good" one? Of course the experience is going to suck. York is basically bleachers with a running track between the fans and the action. Nobody should be surprised that people don't want to bother. Of course there are other factors, but fans might be willing to forgive some of those if they were treated to a great experience once they got there. Kind of like Cavalry, to be honest.
And it isn't like Cavalry are smashing attendance records, but they've got the right recipe. The fans are close to the pitch, even 3,000 feels hoppin', and it is a nice place to visit and hang out. While distance might be a barrier for casual fans, I'd rather drive 40 minutes to Spruce Meadows than 15 to McMahon.
Speaking of attendance, does anyone know how things are looking for Cavalry this year? I think that some people were still taking a "wait and see" approach with Covid in the early parts of 2022, plus just in the habit of not going out as much. I am hopeful that 2023 (and beyond) will see a bit of a bump.
|