Buono is the winningest coach is CFL history and done a remarkable job over the years in recruiting and signing talent as GM, but he is not a marketeer.
Braley's best move during his time as owner of the Lions was bringing Bobby Ackles back to the Lions as President and CEO to rebuild the fanbase in 2002. Ackles networked with the business community to bring them back into the picture. He renovated the Lions training centre and added pictures of past Lions greats on its walls, a la the Montreal Canadiens, to develop a sense of pride in the team and so new American imports would have a blank stare when longtime fans mentioned these former stars. Unfortunately, since Ackles died in 2008 there has been a steady deterioration in the marketing and atmosphere around the team. The result has been a drop in attendance from around 30,000 mark during the Ackles era to 21,000 in 2016. With only 19,000 showing up for the playoff game, signs are that things will get worse. Hopefully, Braley will sell the team soon and new ownership will start marketing the team better.

Off the field the Lions will face challenges as well. A playoff crowd of just over 19,000 emphasized the work they have cut out for them in that department. Somehow this team has to tap into an apathetic Vancouver sports scene. Winning helps, but there needs to be a connection made with the ticket buyer, through programs and promotions that excite them.


While their street party is nice, the team should explore the option of sanctioned tailgating. The lots around BC Place won’t be there forever, so work a deal out with the lot owners and the city to use them while you can. Other events use these lots, there should be no reason why the Lions can’t utilize them. Follow the model in Calgary where you sell a tailgate pass to season ticket holders, and promote a true football game day experience. If you have to, control the environment by selling beer as they do in Toronto at BMO Field. Make game day an event.
They made some nice additions to the in game experience this year. A drum line that adds atmosphere and that can hopefully be expanded. Some great fan prompts on defence, the addition of an air raid siren to prompt noise on defence instead of constant prompting over the loud speakers. Fans started to catch on to that, and they should keep it up in 2017.
Bringing Fan Fest back to the lower mainland, or at least doing one for your season ticket holders would be good as well. Kamloops is a great for training camp and the Lions have a good setup there. But you need to do an event for your season ticket holders locally. A season ticket holder forum or dinner would also be a nice addition. Make those that support you feel part of the team.
http://bclionsden.ca/2016/11/21/wall...off-the-field/