Quote:
Originally Posted by Slava
It kind of feels like there is a rivalry or rift between the Spruce Meadows people and the CSEC people. I say that purely as an outsider, and with absolutely nothing to base it on other than a feeling. They never really do anything as a joint project despite being two large entities in the city. Then you have the Wild playing out of McMahon, where Atco is clearly a more suitable venue. It's just odd.
It just makes me think that the idea of the Stamps playing at Atco (an expanded stadium of 20k) is just never happening.
|
Rumour is that Spruce Meadows asked for an exorbitant amount of money for the Wild to play there, which definitely adds to the reputation of not playing well with CSEC or anyone else.
No doubt the remote location of the Cavs reduces the likely attendance by at least a couple thousand (likely more). It's awesome once you get to Spruce, but unless you have a DD or a pub bus ticket, its a hard sell for many people looking to have a couple beers and enjoy the afternoon.
Would love to see a "Cavs Ride Into McMahon" (sort of like Surge 2 The Dome) match or two against an MLS opponent (Canadian Championship?), LigaMX opponent or even Forge to get a better indication of what the market potential really is, now that the Stamps, McMahon Society, and the Wild did the Cavs a huge favour by getting McMahon FIFA approved turf.
If they do ever build that 12k stadium (let alone entertain the rumoured 16-20k expansions), some serious discussions should be had with the city and the province for LRT spur line access on event days (while the "train riding proletariat" may not be Spruce Meadows ideal customer, they are absolutely going to be the customers for Cavs and other sports and pretty vital for any growth with a venue 25km out of downtown).
I'm surprised they haven't considered a proper Uber/Rideshare zone like at the Saddledome. That might help things in the short term if attendance keeps rising.