Oklahoma State University Athletics
Bedlam Game Tickets
September 18, 2008 | General
2008 single-game ticket prices were established representing general public ticket prices at $60 for non-conference games and $85 for the available Big 12 games. No single-game tickets are available for the Bedlam game on Thanksgiving weekend. The pros and cons of this strategy were heavily discussed in staff meetings – lead by Coach Holder, the staff collectively agreed on the “Bedlam contest – season ticket purchase only” position. In short, our decision to eliminate single game tickets for Bedlam was based upon our desire to grow season ticket sales.
Below are a few facts, perspectives and positions –
Only 3.1% of football season ticket holders previously purchased extra tickets for the Bedlam game – this is an important statistic to know as the department encountered some negative feedback from a small constituency of fans. On the whole, our strategy has been very well received with OSU fans, ticket holders and donors.
Iowa State applied same strategy in 2007, with the Iowa game being played in Ames, and increased its season ticket sales from 28,000 to 36,000. We feel our ability to compete for championships, in all sports, is dependent upon our fans' commitment to buying season tickets in football and basketball on an annual basis. Note: 65% of our annual budget is directly associated with tickets and donor seating in Football and Men's Basketball.
We embraced strategies which aimed at increasing the 22,000+ seats associated with season ticket holders (not just sell tickets to a few marquee games...). :
Selling points:
- Recent $284M facility commitment to football program
- Successful recruiting/talent base of student-athletes, quality of staff, leadership, stand-out players (Zac, Dez, Kendall...)
- Anticipation to achieve seven regular season wins or more; improve on Coach Gundy's first three season records and participate in quality Bowl Contest
- Game day atmosphere in Stillwater (improved game day environment; family-friendly activities...)
- Bedlam contest tickets limited to opponent's distribution and OSU patrons purchasing season tickets
Results as of mid-September:
Outside Seats: 24,717:
Club Seats: 3,106:
Student Tickets: 9,910:
Suites: 1,230:
Total: 38,963:
These figures reflect a 16% improvement on last year's sales and surpass an all-time high in football season ticket sales (public and students) by 2%.
With $35 price points associated with new Fun Zone package in the new West End Zone, we aimed for balance between affordability, value and revenues. Despite a modest increase in last year's ticket price and donor seating, our season ticket holder base increased by 5,600 Cowboy fans. Consequently, as our football program continues to improve, we are on track to strengthen our overall financial position relative to the other members of the Big 12 Conference.
The department's decision to eliminate single game tickets for Bedlam reflects our desire to grow season ticket sales -- it is all about the long-term success and viability of OSU Athletics. Based on solid results thus far, we believe this decision has contributed to Oklahoma State University.
If you are a season ticket holder and a POSSE member ($150/year or more supporter), we genuinely appreciate you for your loyal and generous support.
Thank you again and...Go STATE!
