Last summer, the Bulldogs announced a new community initiative with the San Group that would see local youth 18 & under have no-charge access to Bulldogs and Bombers games when accompanied by an adult. To say that year one of the program was a success is an understatement.
The Bulldogs announced last week that 6400 no-charge youth tickets were issued during the 2021-2022 season. That number represents a 58% increase over the 2019-2020 season, the last season in which the Bulldogs had fans in the building.
“The program was a huge success in year one” said Bulldogs president David Michaud. “We received numerous letters and emails from our fans thanking the San Group for the support they gave the community this year. When we look at the number of families who benefited from this program, it shows how popular it was. We’re hoping year 2 and 3 of the agreement are even better for the San Group and our fans.”
Affordability has become a big issue for fans across all levels of sports, from Junior hockey like the Bulldogs, to the Western Hockey League, and of course even the NHL.
Michaud is proud how much the organization does to make sure Bulldogs hockey is an affordable entertainment option in the community. “From the San Group promotion for local youth, to keep our local beer at just $5.00 during games, we’re doing what we can to make sure we stay affordable and viable.”
With the cost of almost everything rising, the Bulldogs are an anomaly. “My 1st season season as president 3 years ago, we reduced season ticket prices to just $299 for adults. Today they remain the same price. The Bulldogs are facing the same challenges as everyone else, hotel and meal costs are way up, fuel for the bus is up, sticks and equipment continue to rise, but we’re proud that we’ve been able to hold the line on pricing for our season ticket holders.
The Bulldogs hope that the stable prices lead to more season ticket holders in the stands come the club’s home opener on October 1st. The Bulldogs averaged just 970 fans during the 22-23 regular season, however they saw that number jump to nearly 1400 come the playoffs. The latter is where Michaud expects to see the club come the fall. “We have a passionate fan base and we’ve delivered on our promise to give them something to cheer about.
Current season ticket holders will have until August 1st to renew their seats before they’re released to the general public. For more information, email info@albernivalleybulldogs.ca
