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« on: October 30, 2011, 10:48:32 PM »
I think a big problem is that casual fans, even after more than a decade, still don't know/don't care who these Gateway/MVFC teams are. There are no natural regional rivalries. Most people hear a school's name once a year when the football team plays them. I don't know what the answer is, but I think that's a big part of our problem.
Personally, I don't care for the 1pm start. I think that hurts attendance a bit as well. That, on top of being a middle of the pack/down program for a long time has basically maken people apathetic towards it. If they get a free ticket, it's something to do. But it is NOT a destination. Somehow the University needs to make it a destination again.
The giveaways haven't been all the spectacular lately either. For the diehard that means nothing....but the stadium replica, the penguin bobblehead, those things will draw some casual fans.
There is no quick fix. Winning will obviously help. But it can't be the only solution.