simon redshaw wrote:Sounds much better all-round. RU would do a much better image in this country if the RFU vs PRL quarrels stopped. What is the "fan experience" in baseball?
Hi Simon
Not all of the following is necessarily applicable to Tigers / Rugby, but a brief outline of a 'day at the ballpark':
Follow signs to supervised parking. Follow clear signs to gate (great if you don't know the geography of the stadium).
Arrive early, to get autographs (can often get an autograph or ball during warm up), souvenirs or join in with various BBQ's, parties etc.
Get kiddies goodies (free bats etc often available on designated 'fun days').
Visit numerous food and drink stalls (or even numerous loos !). Proper meat in dogs and burgers !
Watch pre-match competition (home run derby, kids competitions etc.)
Get top-up drinks and eats from the mobile vendors that service each block (i.e. beer brought to your seat !).
Anthem, cheerleaders etc.
Take advantage of breaks (9 innings in a baseball match) to nip to loo if required (no queues).
Watch game, with ball by ball replays on the big screen.
Live updates of all concurrent matches shown on screen.
Great music in between live action, with extra stuff in their equivalent of half time (7th innings stretch).
Basically, the actual game is just an (important) part of the day, but you can still have a great time even if your team loses a 1-0 yawn. I feel that over in the UK the clubs feel that its their job to just play the game, but any other entertainment is your (not their) responsibility.
Of course, I am not a 'traditionalist' and am very happy to accept change that provides the family with a better day out for their money !