What are the chances of adding extra bleachers on the other side of Al Lang Stadium, in particular on that open field of the stadium? Has this idea ever been proposed by the Rowdies management?
Relax pal, this is the first sellout at Al Lang. Until very recently, the 'management' hasn't been able to sell tickets in the seats that already exist. Let them get regular sellouts and they might think about doing something different.
While I think his tone is harsh, I have to agree with Bluesfan. This was the first time Al Lang was truly sold out and full. Attendance has risen for four straight games now, something that has never happened. That is fantastic and a very good sign if you have been following this club for any length of time. However, the only reason more seating would be needed is if the team starts averaging at least 6,000 per game. Then you could, if demand was there, argue for temporary seating depending on the match. It is really too bad we don't have playoffs this year. That is when the Rowdies have pulled in the biggest numbers in the past two years, and with the increase in attendance this year there could have been some very significant demand for tickets to playoff games. Short sighted NASL is short sighted.
Harsh is what I do best I guess. Do we dare say that this club has finally figured out selling tickets and has turned the corner as an organization? If the current attendance trend holds, then this season's average would be about 500 above the inaugural season in Tampa. I certainly wouldn't have thought that would happen. Three of their top five crowds to date have all been since last October. Let that sink in for a minute. Not only are they getting the numbers this year, but they seem to be pretty legit. Now, I am one of the first to bash people who try to figure out attendance by looking at the stands, but ALF has had a nice vibe this season. Good crowds, good energy, the Rowdies are becoming a legit presence in the community. Now all this could drop off the face of the earth, but I am really encouraged by what is happening at the gate. The club has also started to use social media very effectively, in addition to connecting to the traditional media, especially print and TV. The merchandise from Admiral should be selling well as well because they have some really good stuff. Would be really nice to see continued strong ticket sales capped off with another Soccer Bowl win and then a announcement about a new stadium . I can be greedy right?
We shall see. Easy to promote with the amount of time and the opponent (NY) coming in. Let's see how Edmonton draws. If it gets close to 5K, that would be nice.
I'd personally would sit in these proposed bleachers. They would be closer to the field, and have better sight lines. As an old proponent for wanting the Rowdies to play at ALF, it is time for a new stadium and/or improvements. ALF is old. And this past Saturday showed that. While I am happy not to be at GSF, something needs to be done about old seats and small concourses.