Ticket prices.

[Fumblitis]

Is there any truth to this? A buddy of mine had an Argo fan tweet through his feed. It was stated that to sit between the 30's is 94 dollars a ticket on game day at the Rogers Center. Can anyone Yay or Nay that?

[Will]

You can see for yourself here (http://www.ticketmaster.ca/toronto-argonauts-vs-ottawa-redblacks-toronto-ontario-11-07-2014/event/10004C8994C55291?artistid=891711&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=8&tm_link=artist_msg-0_10004C8994C55291) that your friend is indeed telling the truth.

[Neely2005]

Is there any truth to this? A buddy of mine had an Argo fan tweet through his feed. It was stated that to sit between the 30's is 94 dollars a ticket on game day at the Rogers Center. Can anyone Yay or Nay that?

With all the Ticketmaster Fees it sounds plausible for Single Game Tickets. Here are the prices from the Ticketmaster Website:

PLATINUM SEATING
CA $106.55

GOLD SEATING
CA $95.25

SILVER SEATING
CA $72.65

BRONZE SEATING
CA $48.55

BLUE SEATING
CA $37.70
Prices subject to change.

Having said that there are a lot of ways to get cheaper tickets with all the deals and packages that the Argonauts offer.

[Downtownfan]

I think ticket pricing is the single biggest reason for the decline in attendance. When you factor all the other crap (terrible venue, traffic, price of parking, outrageous price of concessions, not a great in-game experience), people look at the price (and increases over the last few years) and say-- no way. This is particularly true for the Argos crowd that has been historically a big walk up crowd. People could always get pretty good seats last minute for pretty cheap.
Last year, Braley made a lot of money on the Eastern Final-- they opened fewer sections at a higher ticket price, and sold 35,000 seats. But that was an aberration in my view (Hamilton with no home venue), and following that "fewer seats sold at higher prices is better" model does not work in this market. You can see it in the fact that it is mostly the cheap sections that are sold well, while the rest are spotty, especially the most expensive platinum seats.
Unfortunately, if we do make the move to BMO, this will continue, but at least the venue will be much better in terms of sight lines/experience (thought still shitty for concessions, travel time, etc.).

[T-Bone]

I think ticket pricing is the single biggest reason for the decline in attendance.
With so many empty seats it can be hard for someone to justify paying for a ticket in a higher price range when you can just sit where you want right now.


Unfortunately, if we do make the move to BMO, this will continue, but at least the venue will be much better in terms of sight lines/experience (thought still shitty for concessions, travel time, etc.).

BMO Field Food & Beverage (http://bmofield.com/food-beverages/)

[Neely2005]

BMO Field Food & Beverage (http://bmofield.com/food-beverages/)

The prices still suck and most of the Beer Stands are cash only. At least you can pay by Credit or Debit Card at the Rogers Centre. Also the beer selection is worse at BMO Field IMO, and it's not great at the Rogers Centre to begin with.

[T-Bone]

The prices still suck and most of the Beer Stands are cash only. At least you can pay by Credit or Debit Card at the Rogers Centre. Also the beer selection is worse at BMO Field IMO, and it's not great at the Rogers Centre to begin with.
Concessions at any stadium are going to be pricey. BMO Field has comparable prices and way more variety compared to Rogers Centre despite what you think from your limited experience at the stadium.

[Will]

One thing I'll give MLSE credit for is that while, yes, the prices at the concessions at the ACC are ridiculous they aren't quite as bad as what they've become at Rogers I think and the variety and quality is a bit better IMO.

Teams are heavy into data analytics these days, essentially models showing attendance at price points and based on opponents, etc, something I bet the Argos don't do.

[Neely2005]

Concessions at any stadium are going to be pricey. BMO Field has comparable prices and way more variety despite what you think from your limited experience at the stadium.

I've been to 2 games at BMO Field and they do have some decent variety for food. Probably better than the Rogers Centre. Prices are probably a little better at the Rogers Centre though and you can bring in outside food to the Rogers Centre so that's a huge plus. Beer selection is better at the Rogers Centre. Payment options are also better at the Rogers Centre.

The Rogers Centre also has more and better restaurants near by.

[Will]

I've been to 2 games at BMO Field and they do have some decent variety for food. Probably better than the Rogers Centre. Prices are probably a little better at the Rogers Centre though and you can bring in outside food to the Rogers Centre so that's a huge plus. Beer selection is better at the Rogers Centre. Payment options are also better at the Rogers Centre.

The Rogers Centre also has more and better restaurants near by.

You do raise a good point. People are probably a little more likelier to purchase food & drink at BMO due to its immediate surroundings rather than Rogers Centre. There are restaurants in Liberty Village, but not to the point of Rogers Centre.

However, might I suggest that the merits of concessions at BMO vs. Rogers Centre has little to do with the subject as presented by the OP.

[T-Bone]

You do raise a good point.
He doesn't raise a good point when it comes to beer selection. Rogers Centre has a bit of variety at the bar behind section 121 when it comes to cans. Outside of that it is pretty much Bud and Bud light draft everywhere else. BMO Field has a lot more variety when it comes to draft and cans. Plus they have bigger glasses at BMO Field, as a result the draft beer prices are cheaper by quantity than they are at Rogers Centre. What do I know though, I've only attended just over 100 games at BMO Field and well over 100 at Rogers Centre over the past 10 years.

[Downtownfan]

Yes, when I said concessions are shitty, I meant beer prices, which is admittedly bad at all venues, though some have better selection and purchasing options than others. Having been to BMO a number of times (though only one game this season, early on), the beer selection and pricing was just as shitty as every where else in the TO gouge-fest that is professional sports.
But I will say that the Argo crowds are a pretty spirited bunch, and if/when we get in there, the place will rock.

Again, however, I still think that the increase in prices has really turned off many season ticket holders, and many, many walk up fans.

[Will]

Attendance at Argo games has been trending downward since 2009 following two seasons where the team went 7-29. There was also a change in ownership. People point to price increases after the 2012 season as driving attendance downward even further, however it wasn't as if attendance was all that strong between 2010-2012. It was a bit better, but the average was around in the low 20,000's was it not?

[Neely2005]

He doesn't raise a good point when it comes to beer selection. Rogers Centre has a bit of variety at the bar behind section 121 when it comes to cans. Outside of that it is pretty much Bud and Bud light draft everywhere else. BMO Field has a lot more variety when it comes to draft and cans.

I usually only get cans (usually from the beer kiosk in Section 235, by the Bacardi Bar which apparently has more variety On Tap) and from my experiences the Rogers Centre has a better selection. At least I can get a can of Sleeman at the Rogers Centre, even if it is my least favorite type of Sleeman.


Attendance at Argo games has been trending downward since 2009 following two seasons where the team went 7-29. There was also a change in ownership. People point to price increases after the 2012 season as driving attendance downward even further, however it wasn't as if attendance was all that strong between 2010-2012. It was a bit better, but the average was around in the low 20,000's was it not?

It's down a few thousand from last season:


I know that it's only been 2 home games so far but the drop in attendance from 2013 is pretty alarming. Using the attendance figures from www.argonauts.ca (http://www.argonauts.ca) you can see a drop of in the thousands. And this years schedule is much better than last years schedule. All of our games are on Friday, Saturday or Sunday except for one Tuesday game and one Thursday game which was the preseason game.

Also does anyone know if the Argonauts us 'Paid Attendance' or 'Actual Attendance' for their attendance figures? There were significantly less people there yesterday compared to the home opener against Saskatchewan but the attendance figures don't reflect that so I'm thinking that the Argonauts must use 'Paid Attendance' for their figures.


2013

Preseason: 6,204 (Varsity Stadium)

Game 1: 29,852
Game 2: 18,211
Game 3: 20,064
Game 4: 19,656
Game 5: 21,157
Game 6: 18,863
Game 7: 28,467
Game 8: 18,478
Game 9: 22,589

Playoff Game: 35,418

Average Rogers Centre Attendance: 23,276

Average Regular Season Rogers Centre Attendance: 21,926

http://argonauts.ca/schedule/year/2013/7


2014

Preseason: 5,216 (Varsity Stadium)

Game 1: 17,758
Game 2: 16,102
Game 3: 18,106
Game 4: 18,283
Game 5: 16,276
Game 6: 17,811
Game 7: 16,834
Game 8: 19,258
Game 9:

Playoff Game:

Average Rogers Centre Attendance:

Average Regular Season Rogers Centre Attendance:

http://argonauts.ca/schedule/year/2014/7



* I will update the attendance throughout the season.

[Will]

The question I meant to ask was whether Argo prices remained stable from 2010-2012 or whether they were increased as well.

[T-Bone]

I usually only get cans (usually from the beer kiosk in Section 235, by the Bacardi Bar which apparently has more variety On Tap) and from my experiences the Rogers Centre has a better selection. At least I can get a can of Sleeman at the Rogers Centre, even if it is my least favorite type of Sleeman.
Roger Centre has improved its beer selection over the past 5 years and I personally want to apologize that BMO Field didn't have your favorite Sleeman available. I can't guarantee Sleeman but I'm pretty sure BMO Field's beer selection will be changing next year now: Long-term deal makes Heineken the new Official Beer of MLS, starting in 2015 (http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/10/14/long-term-deal-makes-heineken-new-official-beer-mls-starting-2015)


The question I meant to ask was whether Argo prices remained stable from 2010-2012 or whether they were increased as well.
This is what I've found:

Article from Oct 16, 2009: Argos slash ticket prices (http://www.thestar.com/sports/football/argos/2009/10/16/argos_slash_ticket_prices.html)

2010 (http://argonauts.ca/page/2010-renewals)

2011 (http://www.argonauts.ca/article/2011-season-tickets-on-sale-now)

2012 (http://argonauts.ca/page/renewals)

[Fumblitis]

I think ticket pricing is the single biggest reason for the decline in attendance. When you factor all the other crap (terrible venue, traffic, price of parking, outrageous price of concessions, not a great in-game experience), people look at the price (and increases over the last few years) and say-- no way. This is particularly true for the Argos crowd that has been historically a big walk up crowd. People could always get pretty good seats last minute for pretty cheap.
Last year, Braley made a lot of money on the Eastern Final-- they opened fewer sections at a higher ticket price, and sold 35,000 seats. But that was an aberration in my view (Hamilton with no home venue), and following that "fewer seats sold at higher prices is better" model does not work in this market. You can see it in the fact that it is mostly the cheap sections that are sold well, while the rest are spotty, especially the most expensive platinum seats.
Unfortunately, if we do make the move to BMO, this will continue, but at least the venue will be much better in terms of sight lines/experience (thought still shitty for concessions, travel time, etc.).I agree no wonder the Argo games are so poorly attended. At Mosaic game day ticket prices (adult). Between the 50's: $75. 50-25 yard line. $68.50. 25-goal line. $59.00. And we bitch about that. I'm sure operating the Rogers center is pretty expensive to operate.

[Neely2005]

Roger Centre has improved its beer selection over the past 5 years and I personally want to apologize that BMO Field didn't have your favorite Sleeman available. I can't guarantee Sleeman but I'm pretty sure BMO Field's beer selection will be changing next year now: Long-term deal makes Heineken the new Official Beer of MLS, starting in 2015 (http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/10/14/long-term-deal-makes-heineken-new-official-beer-mls-starting-2015)

Sleeman Draft isn't my favourite but it's the only beer that the Rogers Centre has that I like. They used to have Moosehead but they don't anymore. I wasn't able to find any beer that I like at BMO Field and adding Heineken certainly won't change that.


I agree no wonder the Argo games are so poorly attended. At Mosaic game day ticket prices (adult). Between the 50's: $75. 50-25 yard line. $68.50. 25-goal line. $59.00. And we bitch about that. I'm sure operating the Rogers center is pretty expensive to operate.

The Argonauts also offer many deals throughout the season. I believe that they just had a 2 game offer that got you a third game free. Also comparing prices in Saskatchewan to prices in downtown Toronto probably isn't the best comparison.

[Fumblitis]

The Argonauts also offer many deals throughout the season. I believe that they just had a 2 game offer that got you a third game free. Also comparing prices in Saskatchewan to prices in downtown Toronto probably isn't the best comparison.No but a more important question is are those prices going to improve when the Argos move to BMO.

[Neely2005]

No but a more important question is are those prices going to improve when the Argos move to BMO.

Probably not. There are less seats to sell in BMO Field so I can't see the prices going down. And if MLSE buys the Argonauts I don't think that they'll lower the prices either.

It was also reported that since the City of Toronto owns BMO Field it costs more to stage an event there due to the unionized city workers.

[T-Bone]

It was also reported that since the City of Toronto owns BMO Field it costs more to stage an event there due to the unionized city workers.
Does that apply to all events or just concerts? I've heard that about concerts not sporting events. Do you have a link? They just played the League 1 (http://www.league1ontario.com/games/2) final there on October 19 and I can't image they have tons of money to put on an event.


The Argonauts also offer many deals throughout the season. I believe that they just had a 2 game offer that got you a third game free. Also comparing prices in Saskatchewan to prices in downtown Toronto probably isn't the best comparison.
I know a few people that dropped their season tickets because of the ticket deals through out the season. They rather grab the ticket deals which in seasons past worked out cheaper than many season ticket packages. That may have affected attendance as well.

[Will]

Here you go, T-Bone. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/football/leiweke-outlines-mlse-plans-for-stadium-renovation/article16570810/)


It is expensive to play a game at BMO Field, more expensive than it is now for the Argos to play a game at the Rogers Centre. Thanks to several union contracts between the city and everyone from the electrical and sound staff to concessions workers and the ushers, it costs about $100,000 every time Toronto FC plays at BMO Field. That is why there are few concerts at either BMO or Ricoh Coliseum, which is governed by the same deals. Since the facility is owned by the city, there is no cutting a sweetheart deal just to land a new tenant.

[AngeloV]

Here you go, T-Bone. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/football/leiweke-outlines-mlse-plans-for-stadium-renovation/article16570810/)

Doesn't necessarily mean the rent would be the same or higher at BMO. Since it is city owned, the city can see to it that the rent is the same as the costs, unlike RC, which is privately owned, and can look at making as big a profit as necessary. Furthermore, an agreement to share in concessions would be likely at BMO, but never has at RC.

[T-Bone]

Here you go, T-Bone. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/football/leiweke-outlines-mlse-plans-for-stadium-renovation/article16570810/)
Thank you.


Doesn't necessarily mean the rent would be the same or higher at BMO. Since it is city owned, the city can see to it that the rent is the same as the costs, unlike RC, which is privately owned, and can look at making as big a profit as necessary. Furthermore, an agreement to share in concessions would be likely at BMO, but never has at RC.
Good points, and ultimately there are no other viable options at this time. I wonder if in a few years the Argos move to BMO Field and things run smoothly, will we look back at these threads and laugh?

[Will]

I agree with you Angelo, everything is negotiable I suppose.

I think we'll look back at these threads with a sigh of relief.

[Neely2005]

Doesn't necessarily mean the rent would be the same or higher at BMO. Since it is city owned, the city can see to it that the rent is the same as the costs, unlike RC, which is privately owned, and can look at making as big a profit as necessary. Furthermore, an agreement to share in concessions would be likely at BMO, but never has at RC.

The article that is posted above specifically says that a deal can Not be cut due to the union costs.

[T-Bone]

The article that is posted above specifically says that a deal can Not be cut due to the union costs.
The general consensus is that the Argos receive $0 from concession sales and parking at Rogers Centre currently. If they get a portion of those things at BMO Field it could offset the higher cost of hosting the games at BMO Field.

[Will]

The exact quote was:


Since the facility is owned by the city, there is no cutting a sweetheart deal just to land a new tenant.

I take it to mean that MLSE couldn't negotiate a sweetheart deal because they are technically not the landlord. I don't see why MLSE would give the Argos any special favors anyways, that's to say I wouldn't see them negotiating a sweetheart lease with them.

[Neely2005]

The general consensus is that the Argos receive $0 from concession sales and parking at Rogers Centre currently. If they get a portion of those things at BMO Field it could offset the higher cost of hosting the games at BMO Field.

That's a pretty big If. For all we know MLSE may already have some sort of an agreement in place with the City for all concessions.


The exact quote was:



I take it to mean that MLSE couldn't negotiate a sweetheart deal because they are technically not the landlord. I don't see why MLSE would give the Argos any special favors anyways, that's to say I wouldn't see them negotiating a sweetheart lease with them.

It could also mean that $100,000 is the bare bones minimum cost to stage a sporting event at BMO Field.

[T-Bone]

That's a pretty big If. For all we know MLSE may already have some sort of an agreement in place with the City for all concessions.



It could also mean that $100,000 is the bare bones minimum cost to stage a sporting event at BMO Field.
Your assumptions aren't "big ifs?" Everything is a "big if" right now. How much does it cost to put on a game at Rogers Centre currently?

[Neely2005]

Your assumptions aren't "big ifs?" Everything is a "big if" right now. How much does it cost to put on a game at Rogers Centre currently?

As per the article posted above Less than $100,000.

[T-Bone]

As per the article posted above Less than $100,000.
How much less?


it costs about $100,000 every time Toronto FC plays at BMO Field. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/football/leiweke-outlines-mlse-plans-for-stadium-renovation/article16570810/)


It could also mean that $100,000 is the bare bones minimum cost to stage a sporting event at BMO Field.
Are you claiming a TFC game is a bare bones event? Do you know what the $100,000 is covering? Is that the whole TFC game or part of the game? What is the breakdown?


For all we know MLSE may already have some sort of an agreement in place with the City for all concessions.
Is this a fact or an assumption on your behalf?

[Will]

The article is unclear whether the $100,000 Toronto FC plays applies to all events, but it might be a fair assumption that the Argos would be looking at a similar cost.

[T-Bone]

The article is unclear whether the $100,000 Toronto FC plays applies to all events, but it might be a fair assumption that the Argos would be looking at a similar cost.
I agree the costs to put on a TFC game or an Argo game are probably similar but I can't see League 1 (http://www.league1ontario.com/games/2) paying $100,000 to put on their championship game at BMO Field.

[Will]

Unless they get some sort of subsidy?

[flafson]

If you would give me Silver tickets for ~$35 i would probably come to all the Argos games. Otherwise, you will see me there maybe twice per season.

[Fumblitis]

If you would give me Silver tickets for ~$35 i would probably come to all the Argos games. Otherwise, you will see me there maybe twice per season.Exactly. Ticket prices affect attendance but it also ticket prices proportional to how the Argos are perceived by ones duped by the media.

[Neely2005]

How much less?




Are you claiming a TFC game is a bare bones event? Do you know what the $100,000 is covering? Is that the whole TFC game or part of the game? What is the breakdown?


Is this a fact or an assumption on your behalf?

$32,674.27 ;-)

I don't know, hence the word "Could".

I don't know, hence the word "May".


If you would give me Silver tickets for ~$35 i would probably come to all the Argos games. Otherwise, you will see me there maybe twice per season.

And I'd like a brand new Ferrari for $1000...

Why Silver? You can get A Bronze Season Ticket for about $35 per game. ($350 for the 10 Game season IIRC) Blue are even less.

[flafson]

Why Silver? You can get A Bronze Season Ticket for about $35 per game. ($350 for the 10 Game season IIRC) Blue are even less.

Silver are decent/good enough while bronze are meh...

[Neely2005]

Silver are decent/good enough while bronze are meh...

With all the empty seats you can probably buy Bronze and move down. Regardless it's not like buying Silver Season Tickets are that expensive.

[flafson]

With all the empty seats you can probably buy Bronze and move down. Regardless it's not like buying Silver Season Tickets are that expensive.

I never feel comfortable to move from my seat...

[Ron]

Your assumptions aren't "big ifs?" Everything is a "big if" right now. How much does it cost to put on a game at Rogers Centre currently?

Do not know but the dynamics are different.

Argos pay rent to Rogers

TFC pays rent to MLSE

[Neely2005]

Do not know but the dynamics are different.

Argos pay rent to Rogers

TFC pays rent to MLSE

Wouldn't TFC pay rent to the City of Toronto since they own BMO Field?

[AngeloV]

Just my point of view....

I do believe that the majority of Argos tickets are priced too high for them to get the desired attendance they need. It's OK to bump your prices in certain areas if you have a high number of corporate ticket sales, but they don't. I think they are shooting themselves in the foot by asking what is likely to be their true demographic to pony up 75-90 for tickets to sit in the "better" seats. I've mentioned this before, but even my bronze level ticket went up from roughly $280 per ticket in 2013 to roughly $375 per ticket in 2014. Any way you slice it, that is a horrible increase, especially percentage wise.

As stated I have Bronze season tickets, and sit in the 200 level. I truly believe that the 200 level is a much better place to watch the game, due to the brutal design of seating in the 100 level.

[Neely2005]

Just my point of view....

I do believe that the majority of Argos tickets are priced too high for them to get the desired attendance they need. It's OK to bump your prices in certain areas if you have a high number of corporate ticket sales, but they don't. I think they are shooting themselves in the foot by asking what is likely to be their true demographic to pony up 75-90 for tickets to sit in the "better" seats. I've mentioned this before, but even my bronze level ticket went up from roughly $280 per ticket in 2013 to roughly $375 per ticket in 2014. Any way you slice it, that is a horrible increase, especially percentage wise.

As stated I have Bronze season tickets, and sit in the 200 level. I truly believe that the 200 level is a much better place to watch the game, due to the brutal design of seating in the 100 level.

I also sit in the Bronze 200 Level, I agree that the 200 Level is the best place to watch football at the Rogers Centre. However I only paid $605 total for my 2 season tickets and I was able to make multiple payments from my credit card with the payment plan so I certainly can't complain about the prices.

[AngeloV]

I also sit in the Bronze 200 Level, I agree that the 200 Level is the best place to watch football at the Rogers Centre. However I only paid $605 total for my 2 season tickets and I was able to make multiple payments from my credit card with the payment plan so I certainly can't complain about the prices.

That pisses me off that I paid about $150 more than you did for basically the same 2 seats.

Apparently, since I was late renewing, I missed the early bird cutoff to keep 2013 prices. That was a load of crap. My old ticket rep would always honour the early bird renewal price for me as I always renew in April--and I'm a long time ST holder. Then they give me a new ticke rep, and he says he can't do that. If I wasn't a die hard, I might have just cancelled my ST's and bought off scalpers for every game. Would have ended up paying less.

[Neely2005]

That pisses me off that I paid about $150 more than you did for basically the same 2 seats.

Apparently, since I was late renewing, I missed the early bird cutoff to keep 2013 prices. That was a load of crap. My old ticket rep would always honour the early bird renewal price for me as I always renew in April--and I'm a long time ST holder. Then they give me a new ticke rep, and he says he can't do that. If I wasn't a die hard, I might have just cancelled my ST's and bought off scalpers for every game. Would have ended up paying less.

That sucks! For me with the Payment Plan to my Credit Card I was able to spread out and delay the payments and still renew early so it was an easy decision.

[Argo57]

That pisses me off that I paid about $150 more than you did for basically the same 2 seats.

Apparently, since I was late renewing, I missed the early bird cutoff to keep 2013 prices. That was a load of crap. My old ticket rep would always honour the early bird renewal price for me as I always renew in April--and I'm a long time ST holder. Then they give me a new ticke rep, and he says he can't do that. If I wasn't a die hard, I might have just cancelled my ST's and bought off scalpers for every game. Would have ended up paying less.

I have 4 Bronze tickets Section 231 and paid $1100.00, what seems apparent is there is no consistency to their prices which will piss people off as well. Ticket prices should be better for season ticket holders period, but in general prices should be lowered to put more butts in the seats and invariably create a better game day atmosphere. Any subsequent promos should not be at the price point that season seat holders pay or what's the point in having seasons and paying up front???

[ArgofanIan]

I am a die hard... and season ticket holder..... but I would like to see a few sections or a process to get $20 seats.... I really worry about seniors, college and high school kids who just don't have 35 / 40 bucks.....to me there should be small sections of affordable seats in all CFL stadiums.... not sure how you would do it and I understand the argument why you would not do this..... but I think the CFL needs to do this to bring in the casual fan.... I understand if people don't agree.... once you get people to the games..... they might find they enjoy it and want to come back.....

[jerrym]

I am a die hard... and season ticket holder..... but I would like to see a few sections or a process to get $20 seats.... I really worry about seniors, college and high school kids who just don't have 35 / 40 bucks.....to me there should be small sections of affordable seats in all CFL stadiums.... not sure how you would do it and I understand the argument why you would not do this..... but I think the CFL needs to do this to bring in the casual fan.... I understand if people don't agree.... once you get people to the games..... they might find they enjoy it and want to come back.....

I agree wholehearedly. If the Argos are to survive longterm they need to expand their attendance base. Providing cheap tickets to get people out for the first or second time, especially for students and seniors, might help and wouldn't hurt.

[Fumblitis]

Just my point of view....

I do believe that the majority of Argos tickets are priced too high for them to get the desired attendance they need. It's OK to bump your prices in certain areas if you have a high number of corporate ticket sales, but they don't. I think they are shooting themselves in the foot by asking what is likely to be their true demographic to pony up 75-90 for tickets to sit in the "better" seats. I've mentioned this before, but even my bronze level ticket went up from roughly $280 per ticket in 2013 to roughly $375 per ticket in 2014. Any way you slice it, that is a horrible increase, especially percentage wise.

As stated I have Bronze season tickets, and sit in the 200 level. I truly believe that the 200 level is a much better place to watch the game, due to the brutal design of seating in the 100 level.Interesting that you discuss the sight lines. I was in RC for the 07 Grey Cup game and we were 3 rows up from field level. I watched most of the game on the jumbotron because I couldn't see over the media, cheerleaders, players...etc. Very poor sight lines in 100 level.

[Argo57]

Interesting that you discuss the sight lines. I was in RC for the 07 Grey Cup game and we were 3 rows up from field level. I watched most of the game on the jumbotron because I couldn't see over the media, cheerleaders, players...etc. Very poor sight lines in 100 level.

The slope of the 100 level is not steep enough, I have had tickets 25 rows up and didn't care for the lack of elevation which hinders your sight lines and takes you too far from the field. Multi purpose stadiums such as Skydome do not suit one particular sport well at all IMO.

[argos1873]

The slope of the 100 level is not steep enough, I have had tickets 25 rows up and didn't care for the lack of elevation which hinders your sight lines and takes you too far from the field. Multi purpose stadiums such as Skydome do not suit one particular sport well at all IMO.

Add to the the fact that Skydome was built as a multi-purpose stadium with a baseball bias. So even though its not that great for baseball, its even worse for football.

[johnnyice]

The prices still suck and most of the Beer Stands are cash only. At least you can pay by Credit or Debit Card at the Rogers Centre. Also the beer selection is worse at BMO Field IMO, and it's not great at the Rogers Centre to begin with.





Section 117 area has a decent beer selection......

^ ^ I sit in row 33 , 100 level near the the 55 ; angle of view is much better than the lower rows.


That pisses me off that I paid about $150 more than you did for basically the same 2 seats.

Apparently, since I was late renewing, I missed the early bird cutoff to keep 2013 prices. That was a load of crap. My old ticket rep would always honour the early bird renewal price for me as I always renew in April--and I'm a long time ST holder. Then they give me a new ticket rep, and he says he can't do that. If I wasn't a die hard, I might have just cancelled my ST's and bought off scalpers for every game. Would have ended up paying less.




The scalpers are a shifty looking bunch ; might get a deal or you might get screwed . I just can't see my self buying anything from dirty , toothless homeless looking dude.

[Argo57]

The scalpers are a shifty looking bunch ; might get a deal or you might get screwed . I just can't see my self buying anything from dirty , toothless homeless looking dude.

I'm with you on this one, I think the same thing every game when walking up to the stadium, would much rather walk up to the box office and pay face ticket value than encourage these guys.

[ArgoGabe22]

I'm with you on this one, I think the same thing every game when walking up to the stadium, would much rather walk up to the box office and pay face ticket value than encourage these guys.

Glad I'm not the only one. I always wonder how much do they make if they keep coming out each home game? I tried crunching the numbers but it's just like the Michigan bottle scheme.

I would also give my tickets away for free or donate them before selling them to scalpers.

[Argo57]

Glad I'm not the only one. I always wonder how much do they make if they keep coming out each home game? I tried crunching the numbers but it's just like the Michigan bottle scheme.

I would also give my tickets away for free or donate them before selling them to scalpers.

Not sure exactly what they make Gabe, my tickets have a face value of $42.55 ea (an odd price in itself), I paid $26.00 ea for my season tickets.
My guess is these guys buy up blocks of seats and sell the at face value or even a few buck less and still make a decent profit assuming they are buying at the same price point as we are. Just my guess I could be totally off on this one.
I have often wondered why these guys sell tickets at Argonaut games with so many seats available thru the box office but they continue to so they must be making some cash doing this.

[ArgoGabe22]

Not sure exactly what they make Gabe, my tickets have a face value of $42.55 ea (an odd price in itself), I paid $26.00 ea for my season tickets.
My guess is these guys buy up blocks of seats and sell the at face value or even a few buck less and still make a decent profit assuming they are buying at the same price point as we are. Just my guess I could be totally off on this one.
I have often wondered why these guys sell tickets at Argonaut games with so many seats available thru the box office but they continue to so they must be making some cash doing this.

I know they get seasons with the discounts and also lowball sellers with extras but who's buying these tickets? I haven't seen anyone buying from a scalper in a very long time, although it only takes me a second to pass them by. I just don't see a market in scalping Argos tickets but I guess they're making something off of it.

[Neely2005]

Section 117 area has a decent beer selection......

At BMO Field?

[Neely2005]

I usually only get cans (usually from the beer kiosk in Section 235, by the Bacardi Bar which apparently has more variety On Tap) and from my experiences the Rogers Centre has a better selection. At least I can get a can of Sleeman at the Rogers Centre, even if it is my least favorite type of Sleeman.

I went into the Bacardi Bar by Section 230 and they actually have a few more beers On Tap to choose from. They have Shock Top, Leffe and Rolling Rock plus a couple others and a Cider. You can also pay electronically.

[HardCat]

I had Season Tickets for the Argonauts in 1992 and had gone to about 5 home games in an Incredible Season a Championship Season 1991.
Later i bought Season tickets for the Argonauts in Season 1999 and 2000.
Moving to Downtown Hamilton in 2002 i bought Season tickets at the former Ivor Wynne Stadium in 2002 and 2003 and far more current 2012 the last Season at Ivor Wynne.
Living out here i cheered for the hometown squad, although i grew up with the Argonauts as a kid in the early 70's my Dad took me when my Uncle gave him his tickets as he had Season's then and that's when 45,000 would pack and sell out Exhibition Stadium. And in those days we dreamed of 2 tings----a Dome Stadium and beer in the stands!!!
I just want to say being outside in the weather often sucks!!! If i am not a purist to heck with it!! I LOVE the Rogers Centre and i watched 2 games this Season in Toronto.
And next year i am buying Season's to the Argonauts---and i am very happy we are at the Rogers Centre!! It is a great place to watch a game and you don't get drenched, feel so achy and cold just to be entertained??
I wish all these people today could get in a time machine travel back to the 1970's at Exhibition Stadium and rap with the Fans then and maybe just maybe they might be more easy and thankful for us playing at the Rogers Centre. I have always LOVED the Argonauts!!! Glad to be coming home!!

[Argocister]

Glad to have you back with the Argos! ......even if we are only in the Skydome for a couple more years.

Personally, if the Argos weren't treated like second class citizens, the Skydome could be liveable. It doesn't have the atmosphere like the RedBlacks new TDPlace or the Ticats THF .... Those stadiums feel like the fans are actually part of the game. ..... Mind you there are more in those stadiums than what show up for the
Argos ... But hopefully that will change.

[T-Bone]

Just got my 2015 season ticket renewal e-mail and there is a price increase.

http://gamedayrcom.c.presscdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/picard-facepalm-570x427.jpg

[herrington2828]

ok so its not just me ... there is an increase. LOL. WOW

Ummm.

There is a price increase... my Bronze seats are $36/game ... $41 a game if you don't include the preseason game they make us buy .... 9 years ... now I gotta decide whether to downgrade to blues, or just get out and buy tickets every game outside, or from the wicked online deals.

Anyone elses thoughts?

[AngeloV]

I got my renewal today as well. Just wondering, for those that have bronze seats, what are they asking for your renewal. On my renewal, they are asking per ticket: 300.00 + 39.00 HST + 30.00 facilities fee, for a total of 369 per ticket. I don't have a problem paying it if everyone else is paying the same amount, but I'll be damned if I pay more than others for the same level in 2015 as I did in 2014.

[herrington2828]

I got my renewal today as well. Just wondering, for those that have bronze seats, what are they asking for your renewal. On my renewal, they are asking per ticket: 300.00 + 39.00 HST + 30.00 facilities fee, for a total of 369 per ticket. I don't have a problem paying it if everyone else is paying the same amount, but I'll be damned if I pay more than others for the same level in 2015 as I did in 2014.

thats my rate as well angelo... except im not paying it .. gotta decide to downgrade to blue and actually sit in one of the 10,000 empty seats, or just wat for deals like last yr that my friends all used

[T-Bone]

thats my rate as well angelo... except im not paying it .. gotta decide to downgrade to blue and actually sit in one of the 10,000 empty seats, or just wat for deals like last yr that my friends all used
I wonder how many other season ticket holders are having similar thoughts. I thought prices were going to be the same or less and I honestly don't understand the reasoning or the justification behind an increase after this season. I can't imagine this price increase is going to be good for attendance next season. I feel bad for the ticket reps that have to try and sell this now.

[AngeloV]

The way I understand it, people that renewed early in 2014, received the same rate as for 2013. I renewed late, and thus paid full price, which is the same I am paying this year (actually about $7 less per seat). Those that renewed early in 2014, are going to pay actual price in 2015. They just really beat around the bush on this, though, so I can understand people getting po'd. I was po'd when I didn't get the same price as everyone else in 2014, and am still po'd that rather than bring me back to their prices, they are bringing everyone else up to my prices. Pretty sad when you are playing to less than 19k every game to increase the prices.

[herrington2828]

The way I understand it, people that renewed early in 2014, received the same rate as for 2013. I renewed late, and thus paid full price, which is the same I am paying this year (actually about $7 less per seat). Those that renewed early in 2014, are going to pay actual price in 2015. They just really beat around the bush on this, though, so I can understand people getting po'd. I was po'd when I didn't get the same price as everyone else in 2014, and am still po'd that rather than bring me back to their prices, they are bringing everyone else up to my prices. Pretty sad when you are playing to less than 19k every game to increase the prices.

Called my rep today and that is exactly what he said. Without naming who I spoke with, he said they are taking a list of comments / complaints this week and bringing it to the appropriate people next eek, so I would say CALL IN! Make yourself heard. I did, and with enough makin voices heard change may arise.

I 100% though WILL NOT be renewing my 4,and the other buddy who was going to join to make it 6, said no tx .... either downgrading to 4 in BLUE or just scalp 4 year

[AngeloV]

Well I just sent an email with how I feel, starting with how I paid so much more than others for the same seats last year, to the no effort fan appreciation night, to the lack of incentive to actually pay market value for tickets, when scalpers are selling them for so cheap.

[ArgoGabe22]

I'm not sure what Argo tickets were like pre-2005 (when I started following), which I was young so I'm not sure what the prices were like after that either but I heard from multiple people from across all fanbases that many fans starting watching the game in the cheap seats. It wasn't like today, where I bet many kids would go to the games by themselves, with friends and get the cheapest tickets available at the box office or from other promotions.

I'm just not sure how the league can allow teams to charge so much for playoff tickets, when both Sem-Finals weren't sell outs and now the Argos doing this when they need more fans then ever.

[HereComeTheIrish]

Ticket prices are killer. For a team that is struggling with attendance and mired in what is turning into a crisis, these ticket prices are outrageous. I would love to be an Argos season ticket holder, but the fan experience is so poor that its not worth the trek when I could watch it from the comfort of my house.

Have they not realized this? Look at the TV numbers. They're actually very good. Far from what you'd expect from a "dead team". The fans are there. But many share my sentiment. The Argos need to make it an experience to go to a game. They need to make it worth it for fans to make the journey. As of right now, they're falling well short.

[ArgoRavi]

I'm not sure what Argo tickets were like pre-2005 (when I started following), which I was young so I'm not sure what the prices were like after that either but I heard from multiple people from across all fanbases that many fans starting watching the game in the cheap seats. It wasn't like today, where I bet many kids would go to the games by themselves, with friends and get the cheapest tickets available at the box office or from other promotions.

I'm just not sure how the league can allow teams to charge so much for playoff tickets, when both Sem-Finals weren't sell outs and now the Argos doing this when they need more fans then ever.

The "Braley Model" seems to have taken hold somewhat across the league. That model says that it is better to have a fewer number of fans paying high prices than a larger number of fans paying a more reasonable and affordable rate to go to games. The problem with this model, as I see it, is how do you ever grow your fanbase if you don't have a decent number of cheaper seats?

[paulwoods13]

Aside from the price, which absolutely should have been frozen or reduced based on this year's attendance, there is the matter of the schedule. As I understand it we are being asked to buy 10 games including a preseason game. Squeezing in nine regular-season games at home in 2015, when Pan Am Games are going to take over RC for a month or so, will be a stretch, to say the least. I would not be surprised if we end up having a "home" game in Moncton or even Hamilton. And there is no way the preseason game at Varsity should be charged at full price. There is no reserved seating there so all tickets are essentially worth the same price, yet the team is prepared to charge differential prices for that game? Not acceptable.

[T-Bone]

Please retweet and favorite the following:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p><a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a> Just wondering how a price increase for 2015 season ticket renewals is warranted after this past season?</p>&mdash; ArgoFans.com (@argofans) <a href="https://twitter.com/argofans/status/534711596644589568">November 18, 2014</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The more response to the tweet the more likely we will hear something on the subject.

Also as herrington2828 has mentioned (http://www.argofans.com/showthread.php?2992-Ticket-prices.&p=55655&viewfull=1#post55655), calling your ticket rep is also a good idea. Just remember your rep isn't the one that set the prices.

EDIT: Also messaged them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ArgosFootball/posts/887552767943999).

[mchesher03]

my email / rant (with names removed for obvious reasons). I know it doesn't matter much but my two cents....

Hi ,


I know this isn't your doing but I want to make my thoughts known.
I'm very surprised at the increase in prices for 2015, given this past
year and the projection that in 2015 we are going to have an even
worse schedule given the pan am games in Toronto. My dad and I have
been season seat holders since around 2000 and use the games as a sort
of excuse to get together since we live farther apart now, used to be
great as it occurred every 2 or 3 weeks throughout the season.
However the current practice (again I understand not yours or the
argos doing) where a whack of home games are slammed together within a
month or 3 within 18 days like last season has sort of made this a
moot point. My dad is driving into the city from about 100km to the
east and the past two years have definitely put a strain on this due
to the schedule and the overall declining atmosphere and fan
experience to be honest. We love the Argos and always will but we'll
definitely be reconsidering this purchase in 2015 given what I've told
you here.

[AngeloV]

I received a call back from my rep today after sending my email last night. He told me that I'm not alone in sending my thoughts in.
He did say that my thoughts would be passed on to the higher ups. Now, I'm not a fool. I'm sure he was telling me basically what he believes I wanted to hear for some sort of damage control, but it was still pretty nice to get a call so quickly after voicing my displeasure.

It's a tough situtation as a die hard fan. I'd love to see them treat their loyal, paying fans better, but at the same time, I don't want to encourage others to take a stand and not buy tickets, because in the end, Braley would likely just fold the team under that scenario.

[mchesher03]

agree Angelo - it would actually take a lot for me not to renew. That said I also felt better after just venting. I'm sure nothing will change but at the very least next group huddle or whatever among argo sales reps these concerns will at least be fairly consistent across the board. Let's just leave it at the fact that this team continues to make things difficult being a die hard fan.....

[T-Bone]

I received a call back from my rep today after sending my email last night. He told me that I'm not alone in sending my thoughts in.
He did say that my thoughts would be passed on to the higher ups. Now, I'm not a fool. I'm sure he was telling me basically what he believes I wanted to hear for some sort of damage control, but it was still pretty nice to get a call so quickly after voicing my displeasure.

It's a tough situtation as a die hard fan. I'd love to see them treat their loyal, paying fans better, but at the same time, I don't want to encourage others to take a stand and not buy tickets, because in the end, Braley would likely just fold the team under that scenario.
Unfortunately the situation is out of the ticket reps hands as they don't set the prices and all they probably can do is pass on the messages they receive. I don't want people not to renew or buy tickets but at the same time the people that made the decision to increase prices should justify the reason for it. The e-mail I received for 2015 renewal had nothing but an attached .pdf invoice. That's just a bit tacky, not even a thank you for last years support. If they keep this up they are going to erode the hardcore foundation of their fan base. I'm going to wait until the day before the renewal date is up to renew. If they have a slow start on renewals they may reconsider the increase.

[paulwoods13]

TFC is not a whole lot better -- price freeze in effect only for four weeks -- but it's still better than an increase.

http://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/tfc-institutes-temporary-price-freeze-for-season-ticket-holders-1.2838313

[T-Bone]

TFC is not a whole lot better -- price freeze in effect only for four weeks -- but it's still better than an increase. (http://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/tfc-institutes-temporary-price-freeze-for-season-ticket-holders-1.2838313)
This is the third season with a price freeze for TFC and all you have to do is make a deposit before the Dec 15th deadline to get that price. I believe the same goes for the Argos regarding a deposit and the early bird price.

[paulwoods13]

I finally did an analysis of my own situation. My ticket price has been increased about 13% over last year. I have asked for justification for such an increase.

[gilthethrill]

I finally did an analysis of my own situation. My ticket price has been increased about 13% over last year. I have asked for justification for such an increase.

Someone has to pay the recently fired Mike Benevides salary!

[argotom]

Still the best deal in town.
The CFL is value for the money.

[T-Bone]

Still the best deal in town.
The CFL is value for the money.
My TFC season tickets work out cheaper than my Argos season tickets per game. Both sets of tickets are on the bottom price levels. Some may not define that as "value for the money" though.

[Neely2005]

I got my renewal today as well. Just wondering, for those that have bronze seats, what are they asking for your renewal. On my renewal, they are asking per ticket: 300.00 + 39.00 HST + 30.00 facilities fee, for a total of 369 per ticket. I don't have a problem paying it if everyone else is paying the same amount, but I'll be damned if I pay more than others for the same level in 2015 as I did in 2014.

My total price for 2 seats is $738. Up from $605 total for the same 2 seats for the 2014 season.

$300 per seat plus $60 Facility Fee and HST. So the same price as yours.


Well I just sent an email with how I feel, starting with how I paid so much more than others for the same seats last year, to the no effort fan appreciation night, to the lack of incentive to actually pay market value for tickets, when scalpers are selling them for so cheap.

Here's the response that I got:

The regular season tickets rates didn’t change much from last season (regular rate last year for the Bronze seats were $367.87 with this year’s being $369) but you did take advantage of the early bird last year that had a great savings attached.* So compared to what you paid for last year yes they went up but they are pretty much at par as far as the regular rate is concerned.* Last year our team made the decision to align our prices with the rest of the clubs in the CFL and has a result the increase was substantial and those that book early last year are essentially seeing a two year increase in one year.


Unfortunately the situation is out of the ticket reps hands as they don't set the prices and all they probably can do is pass on the messages they receive. I don't want people not to renew or buy tickets but at the same time the people that made the decision to increase prices should justify the reason for it. The e-mail I received for 2015 renewal had nothing but an attached .pdf invoice. That's just a bit tacky, not even a thank you for last years support. If they keep this up they are going to erode the hardcore foundation of their fan base. I'm going to wait until the day before the renewal date is up to renew. If they have a slow start on renewals they may reconsider the increase.

That's weird. This is what is attached to my renewal PDF:

The Argos faced many unique challenges this year but still managed to finish within a game of making the post-season. We believe in the leadership of Jim Barker and Scott Milanovich, and are confident that in 2015, we will continue building a winning organization on and off the field. We are of course very proud of our Outstanding Player Awards nominees and All-Stars, and feel especially fortunate for the opportunity to support a future Hall of Fame quarterback each week.

Through it all, we want to thank you for being part of our team. We hope that you experienced your 'Argos moment' this past season. It is the moment when you shake the hand of a player and he takes a few minutes to get to know you, or when you are sitting on the edge of your seat just as Ricky Ray drops another perfectly thrown pass into Chad Owens' hands for a touchdown, or maybe it is that moment when you are with your family and friends sharing in all of the tradition and excitement of Canadian football. Whatever your moment is, we hope that you found it, and we want you back next year to enjoy more special moments.

As you know, the benefits of being an Argonauts Season Ticket Holder are extensive. They include major discounts off the regular gameday ticket price, ticket exchange opportunities, participation in exclusive pre-sale offers, and, most importantly, being part of the Double Blue family. For details on additional benefits and other seating options, please visit the Season Tickets section, located under Tickets, at Argonauts.ca or contact your account executive.

EXCLUSIVE EARLY BIRD BENEFITS FOR 2015 (for all renewals committed prior to January 30th, 2015).

We will draw one name weekly, until the early bird renewal deadline of January 30th, for some exciting prizes including a trip to 103rd Grey Cup in Winnipeg, an ultimate road trip package to Montreal or Ottawa, game-worn jerseys, season seat upgrades and a lot more! Those who win the weekly draw will still be eligible for the remaining draws, so be sure to renew today.
*
Now is the time to renew your seats so that you can take advantage of great savings, have a chance to win terrific prizes, and be ready for another season of Argonauts football.

To renew, simply fill out the attached invoice and send it in, log into your account manager online at Argonauts.ca, call us at 416-341-ARGO (2746), or email your account executive or clientservices@argonauts.ca .

Come and discover your Argos moment again with us in 2015.

Sincerely,

Chris Rudge
Chief Executive Officer
*
Early Bird renewals represent full or partial payment of at least 1/3rd on 2015 renewed season tickets on or before January 30, 2015

[AngeloV]

My total price for 2 seats is $738. Up from $605 total for the same 2 seats for the 2014 season.

$300 per seat plus $60 Facility Fee and HST. So the same price as yours.

Yeah. I figured out that I just got screwed a year eariler than the rest of you. What a terrible way to keep any of the remaining fan base around.

[Argo57]

We are moving further west from Burlington next summer, my 11 year old son is a diehard Ticat fan, decided not to renew with the Argonauts and purchased 4 Bronze seats with the Ticats.
Ticat bronze seats are more money ($429/ea) but factoring Go transit costs ($400/season) cost is a wash, with less aggravation getting there.
Sadly the game day experience coupled with transit time made my decision easier than I thought.
Went to one Ticat game this year and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and passion of their fans (reminded me of 30 years ago at the Ex).
Still a true Doubleblue Argonaut fan and will proudly wear my jersey when Toronto is in town!!!

[AngeloV]

We are moving further west from Burlington next summer, my 11 year old son is a diehard Ticat fan, decided not to renew with the Argonauts and purchased 4 Bronze seats with the Ticats.
Ticat bronze seats are more money ($429/ea) but factoring Go transit costs ($400/season) cost is a wash, with less aggravation getting there.
Sadly the game day experience coupled with transit time made my decision easier than I thought.
Went to one Ticat game this year and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and passion of their fans (reminded me of 30 years ago at the Ex).
Still a true Doubleblue Argonaut fan and will proudly wear my jersey when Toronto is in town!!!

Wear your jersey proudly whether the Argos are in town or not. Sad to see this happen, but not surprised.

[Ron]

Last year our team made the decision to align our prices with the rest of the clubs in the CFL and has a result the increase was substantial and those that book early last year are essentially seeing a two year increase in one year.

Bob Young did the same thing with Ticat tickets. But only for new customers. Existing season seat holders were not screwed with big increases. (nor will they be)

And that's with a season ticket base at least 4 times larger than the Argos have to deal with.

[moeajram]

I have been a season holder for 7 years, but last year was my first year not buying season tickets due to a number of factors. I still made my way down 2 games all year,which has been the lowest amount in the past 10 years for me.

I wish the Argos would have similar packages to the Toronto Rock, in terms of value and costs. I am still on the fence about getting season tickets due to the sechedule we have been given for the past few years, and also due to the experience of watching a game at the dome. I love the dome, but at the moment it does not feel like we are there to watch a football game. Again for me, i am coming from north, so i need the tickets to be resonable priced such as family deals wound work for me and i wish we could change the atmposphere are the rogers center to make it more football friendly.

[T-Bone]

That's weird. This is what is attached to my renewal PDF:
Maybe it's just Blue level they don't care about then. I know a few people with Blue level tickets that got just an attached .pdf in their renewal e-mail. Thanks for posting that, it's good to know what I missed out on: Early Bird Draw 2015 (http://argonauts.ca/page/early-bird-draw-2015)


We are moving further west from Burlington next summer, my 11 year old son is a diehard Ticat fan, decided not to renew with the Argonauts and purchased 4 Bronze seats with the Ticats.
Ticat bronze seats are more money ($429/ea) but factoring Go transit costs ($400/season) cost is a wash, with less aggravation getting there.
Sadly the game day experience coupled with transit time made my decision easier than I thought.
Went to one Ticat game this year and thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and passion of their fans (reminded me of 30 years ago at the Ex).
Still a true Doubleblue Argonaut fan and will proudly wear my jersey when Toronto is in town!!!
Unfortunate but understandable. I picked up a season ticket at Tim Hortons Field this past season and as an Argo fan I'm a little envious of what they have going on there.

[herrington2828]

EXCLUSIVE EARLY BIRD BENEFITS FOR 2015 (for all renewals committed prior to January 30th, 2015).

We will draw one name weekly, until the early bird renewal deadline of January 30th, for some exciting prizes including a trip to 103rd Grey Cup in Winnipeg, an ultimate road trip package to Montreal or Ottawa, game-worn jerseys, season seat upgrades and a lot more! Those who win the weekly draw will still be eligible for the remaining draws, so be sure to renew today.


Wow, this really entices me to renew and spend the money now without seeing the schedule. A few giveaways, nothing else. I will be a June 1st decision, but as mentioned before, 6 seasons in bronze will at the MOST become 4 in blue. $2,000 spent with 6 guys at every game VS $1,000 and 4 guys. Not alot of money, but start multiplying that the others in my situation and it quickly grows to exponential losses!

[Downtownfan]

I'm torn right now. I have two seasons in bronze, nominally one for myself and soon to be 8-year old. The soon to be 6-year old was to get his own ticket this year, bringing my total up to three, but the schedule sucked so badly this year that the kids did not make it to a few of the games (a bit too late on a Friday some times). Now, the saving grace is the exchange, which allows quite a bit of flexibility. But again, the sked sucked this year, and does not promise to improve much next year... I also want to know what, exactly, is going to happen to the franchise in terms of ownership and stadium; I was convinced that we would be moving to BMO Field by 2015 or 2016, but now that looks tentative.
I am really torn, but want to support the franchise. I am convinced that many people have not renewed or are staying home as a sort of protest to the high ticket prices, or are waiting until BMO.

[Neely2005]

Maybe it's just Blue level they don't care about then. I know a few people with Blue level tickets that got just an attached .pdf in their renewal e-mail. Thanks for posting that, it's good to know what I missed out on: Early Bird Draw 2015 (http://argonauts.ca/page/early-bird-draw-2015)


Unfortunate but understandable. I picked up a season ticket at Tim Hortons Field this past season and as an Argo fan I'm a little envious of what they have going on there.

How does the new Hamilton stadium compare with the new Ottawa stadium?



Here's the response that I got:

The regular season tickets rates didn’t change much from last season (regular rate last year for the Bronze seats were $367.87 with this year’s being $369) but you did take advantage of the early bird last year that had a great savings attached.* So compared to what you paid for last year yes they went up but they are pretty much at par as far as the regular rate is concerned.* Last year our team made the decision to align our prices with the rest of the clubs in the CFL and has a result the increase was substantial and those that book early last year are essentially seeing a two year increase in one year.


My reply:

I know that you don't set the prices and you've been a very good ticket representative for me.*

However I question the wisdom of increasing prices when announced average attendance was dow‎n 4,135 per game to only 17,791 for the 2014 season.*

The Argonauts play in a stadium that seats 52,230 for CFL Football. That means that for the 2014 season the Rogers Centre was at an average capacity of 34%. That's something that the other CFL teams that you're comparing yourself to for pricing aren't dealing with.

Also as per the pricing below that I've found online the Argonauts are among the most expensive at the low end of Season Ticket prices.

The Season Ticket price ranges are as follows:

BC $271 - $1050
Edmonton $235 -?*
Calgary $222 - $839
Saskatchewan $315 - $755 (Student and Senior pricing available)
Winnipeg $254 - $1092
Hamilton $288 -?*
Toronto $255 - $819
Ottawa ‎$229 - $918
Montreal $178 - $839

So I'm not sure who is setting the pricing but I think that they really need to reconsider the prices for Season Ticket holders as they are your most loyal and it's my understanding that you don't have that many left. Especially since I could have just waited for the in season promotions and paid less for tickets.

[T-Bone]

Wow, this really entices me to renew and spend the money now without seeing the schedule. A few giveaways, nothing else.
I have to admit that there are a lot of nice early bird prizes (http://www.argonauts.ca/page/early-bird-draw-2015?no-mobile-redirect=1). This is the most I've ever seen for early bird renewal.


How does the new Hamilton stadium compare with the new Ottawa stadium?
I was in the south stand at TD Place and it was very similar to Tim Hortons Field. The seats at THF are bigger though and a bit more comfortable.

[Neely2005]

I have to admit that there are a lot of nice early bird prizes (http://www.argonauts.ca/page/early-bird-draw-2015?no-mobile-redirect=1). This is the most I've ever seen for early bird renewal.


I was in the south stand at TD Place and it was very similar to Tim Hortons Field. The seats at THF are bigger though and a bit more comfortable.

Hopefully the cup holders are in a better location at THF than at TD Place. I can only imagine how many people are going to trip over them.

[Argocister]

I like both THF and TD Place.
They both have their own character and will develop that further as games are played.
The Als stadium at McGill is one of the most picturesque ..... yes even football stadiums can be picturesque. ( I think Soldier field in Chicago is one of those)
Both TD Place and Molson stadiums are in areas where there are restaurants, parks, other things to do while you are visiting. THF not so much, but they do have some fun tailgating at THF.
If you have a chance to go to either, you should. Yes it will create some envy, but hopefully the Argos will get their own stadium that will be a better home than just boarding at the dome.

[ArgoRavi]

I like both THF and TD Place.
They both have their own character and will develop that further as games are played.
The Als stadium at McGill is one of the most picturesque ..... yes even football stadiums can be picturesque. ( I think Soldier field in Chicago is one of those)
Both TD Place and Molson stadiums are in areas where there are restaurants, parks, other things to do while you are visiting. THF not so much, but they do have some fun tailgating at THF.
If you have a chance to go to either, you should. Yes it will create some envy, but hopefully the Argos will get their own stadium that will be a better home than just boarding at the dome.

I suspect that much of the reason why we heard some discontent among Argos players is because they saw the new facilities in Ottawa and Hamilton and started asking, "Why not us"?

[Argo57]

I suspect that much of the reason why we heard some discontent among Argos players is because they saw the new facilities in Ottawa and Hamilton and started asking, "Why not us"?

Kind of ironic, the oldest franchise in the CFL in Canada's largest city is being run like some backwoods semi pro team, I'm sure the Toronto players do have tremendous resentment, you can bet this also hinders some free agent signings as well.
You really have to feel bad for Jim Barker, Scott Milanovich and the rest of the football operations!!

[Argocister]

Kind of ironic, the oldest franchise in the CFL in Canada's largest city is being run like some backwoods semi pro team, I'm sure the Toronto players do have tremendous resentment, you can bet this also hinders some free agent signings as well.
You really have to feel bad for Jim Barker, Scott Milanovich and the rest of the football operations!!

I don't feel bad, but I do thank them for putting a pretty good product on the field with the cards they are dealt. I would much rather have a team and not the greatest venue, rather than no team at all.

I wish more would show their support at the stadium rather than just supporting the TV numbers. But then I guess if they were filling the dome, we wouldn't get a chance to fill a different stadium ....

and to keep to the thread title .... I hope the price increases won't become a detriment to fan attendance. If you look at price increases in other venues there is a reason behind it ... planning for a new venue .... getting a new venue .... successful team .... This year for the Argos its nada, rien, zippo!

Nevertheless, I will purchase my seasons .... and hope the schedule can fit into mine. Go Argos 2015! ......with a new shoulder for Ricky!

[Neely2005]

How does the new Hamilton stadium compare with the new Ottawa stadium?



My reply:

I know that you don't set the prices and you've been a very good ticket representative for me.*

However I question the wisdom of increasing prices when announced average attendance was dow‎n 4,135 per game to only 17,791 for the 2014 season.*

The Argonauts play in a stadium that seats 52,230 for CFL Football. That means that for the 2014 season the Rogers Centre was at an average capacity of 34%. That's something that the other CFL teams that you're comparing yourself to for pricing aren't dealing with.

Also as per the pricing below that I've found online the Argonauts are among the most expensive at the low end of Season Ticket prices.

The Season Ticket price ranges are as follows:

BC $271 - $1050
Edmonton $235 -?*
Calgary $222 - $839
Saskatchewan $315 - $755 (Student and Senior pricing available)
Winnipeg $254 - $1092
Hamilton $288 -?*
Toronto $255 - $819
Ottawa ‎$229 - $918
Montreal $178 - $839

So I'm not sure who is setting the pricing but I think that they really need to reconsider the prices for Season Ticket holders as they are your most loyal and it's my understanding that you don't have that many left. Especially since I could have just waited for the in season promotions and paid less for tickets.

My Account Representative called me to discuss my Email. Here is a summary of what he said:

The Argonauts will be voting in favour of the motion to have the season start 2 weeks early.

The account representatives were asked for feedback about the price increase. The team did not follow their suggestions.

He doesn't forsee anymore price increases as Braley is now happy with where ticket prices are.

The Argonauts can leave Rogers Centre early but they have to give about 12 months notice so they will be at the Rogers Centre for the 2015 & 2016 season. 2017 is the last season that they can play at the Rogers Centre.

BMO Field is still a possibility if they can get a fair deal as a Tenant and come up with $20 Million.

When they move seat selection will probably be done based on how long you've had your season tickets. The longer you've had them the sooner you get to pick your new seats. (Must be consecutive seasons)

He's seen drafts of next years schedule and it looks similar to this years with lots of games in October.

He talked about how when they did their on site pregame parties they wanted to sell beer for around $4 each but they couldn't due to it being on Rogers Centre grounds.

Acknowledged that the majority of their fans are from 905 / outside of the city.

Fan Day will be at Downsview in 2015.

If I remember anything else I will add it.

[doubleblue]

Good report Neely. Thanks

[paulwoods13]

The Argonauts will be voting in favour of the motion to have the season start 2 weeks early.

He's seen drafts of next years schedule and it looks similar to this years with lots of games in October.


Those two things are somewhat at odds with one another. We had five home games after October 1 this year. If season moves up two weeks, it will end before end of October.

[ArgoRavi]

I am thinking that the Argos will vote to move the season up two weeks because of the pending move outdoors to BMO Field for, hopefully, the 2016 season which would be the first season that does move forward by two weeks.

[Neely2005]

Those two things are somewhat at odds with one another. We had five home games after October 1 this year. If season moves up two weeks, it will end before end of October.

It sounded like the schedule drafts were done before they decided that they will be voting in favour of the proposal to start the season 2 weeks earlier.


I am thinking that the Argos will vote to move the season up two weeks because of the pending move outdoors to BMO Field for, hopefully, the 2016 season which would be the first season that does move forward by two weeks.

That was my thought too. My rep also mentioned that it would be 2 more weeks with no NFL competition. However that seemed to be more of his personal opinion. He also mentioned that there was some concern from some teams that it would mean less time to hype up the season after the NHL finishes.

[Argo57]

That was my thought too. My rep also mentioned that it would be 2 more weeks with no NFL competition. However that seemed to be more of his personal opinion. He also mentioned that there was some concern from some teams that it would mean less time to hype up the season after the NHL finishes.

At least in Toronto the NHL season will be long over by then.

[AngeloV]

At least in Toronto the NHL season will be long over by then.

OK..let's have none of that now.

:)

[Neely2005]

At least in Toronto the NHL season will be long over by then.

True, that's probably why the concern was coming from other teams and not the Argonauts.

[Fumblitis]

I am thinking that the Argos will vote to move the season up two weeks because of the pending move outdoors to BMO Field for, hopefully, the 2016 season which would be the first season that does move forward by two weeks.And it should be. Luckily the GC this weekend is in Vancouver. It has been bitterly cold on the praries the last few weeks and who the hell would want to sit in -30 wind chill on the praries this weekend had it been in Edmonton, Regina or Winnipeg? So yeah, I'm in favour of starting the season earlier. Besides, the Stanley Cup final is going in June featuring two American teams that nobody gives a sh@t about anyways.

[Will]

Ah yes, if the game was in Edmonton it would be -19 with a windchill of -28, in Calgary it would be -19 with a windchill of -27, in Regina it would be -25 with a windchill of -37 and in Winnipeg it would be -23 with a windchill of -35. Heck even in Vancouver it's only going to get to 0.

[ArgoRavi]

David Naylor was just saying on TSN that there is much opposition to moving the schedule up two weeks and that it is unlikely to happen. He also mentioned that TSN, for what it's worth, would not be keen on such a move as they get higher ratings in November than they do in June.

[Argocister]

David Naylor was just saying on TSN that there is much opposition to moving the schedule up two weeks and that it is unlikely to happen. He also mentioned that TSN, for what it's worth, would not be keen on such a move as they get higher ratings in November than they do in June.

Thats rather interesting .... but is that simply because it is playoff time?

[ArgoRavi]

Thats rather interesting .... but is that simply because it is playoff time?

November is a "sweeps period" for television broadcasters along with February and May. That means that ratings in those months take on added importance which has huge implications in attracting advertisers. June is generally considered to be a lousy month for attracting large TV audiences although the NHL and NBA finals do okay. However, that also would mean some significant competition for the CFL as it tries to get kick-started on its season.

[Neely2005]

Ah yes, if the game was in Edmonton it would be -19 with a windchill of -28, in Calgary it would be -19 with a windchill of -27, in Regina it would be -25 with a windchill of -37 and in Winnipeg it would be -23 with a windchill of -35. Heck even in Vancouver it's only going to get to 0.


David Naylor was just saying on TSN that there is much opposition to moving the schedule up two weeks and that it is unlikely to happen. He also mentioned that TSN, for what it's worth, would not be keen on such a move as they get higher ratings in November than they do in June.

At least 3 teams are voting in favour of it, Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto. Just a guess but I would imagine that Saskatchewan and Winnipeg will too.

Despite the bigger TV contract this is still a gate driven league so the CFL should be more concerned with that than TSN.

[Will]

Didn't the regular season start in mid-June in 2004?

[AngeloV]

I think that with 9 teams and now playing 18 games over a 20 week period, it will be difficult to move the schedule up too much. I feel the earlies a Grey cup will be played will be on the 2nd last Sunday of November. That is the way it used to be with a 9 team league previously, where if the game was played indoors, it would be the last Sunday in November, and if it was outdoors, it would be on the 2nd last Sunday.

[Neely2005]

I think that with 9 teams and now playing 18 games over a 20 week period, it will be difficult to move the schedule up too much. I feel the earlies a Grey cup will be played will be on the 2nd last Sunday of November. That is the way it used to be with a 9 team league previously, where if the game was played indoors, it would be the last Sunday in November, and if it was outdoors, it would be on the 2nd last Sunday.

The only indoor options are BC, Toronto and Montreal. And going forward Montreal and Toronto might only be options for the Grey Cup not for playoff games.

[AngeloV]

The only indoor options are BC, Toronto and Montreal. And going forward Montreal and Toronto might only be options for the Grey Cup not for playoff games.

Grey Cup is what I was referring to. The date of the Grey Cup game was based on where the game was being played. Indoors Grey Cup games were played on the last Sunday in November, outdoors (actually, I think it was only if the game was played in the prairies) the 2nd last Sunday in November, thus moving the playoff games up a week as well.

[T-Bone]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Do something amazing: Purchase a <a href="https://twitter.com/TimHortons">@TimHortons</a> coffee to send a kid to camp &amp; get a pair of tix to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argos?src=hash">#Argos</a> home opener! <a href="http://t.co/5yiDKJ1IyV">pic.twitter.com/5yiDKJ1IyV</a></p>&mdash; Argos Cheerleaders (@ArgosCheer) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArgosCheer/status/606070333293096960">June 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[gilthethrill]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-cards="hidden" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Do something amazing: Purchase a <a href="https://twitter.com/TimHortons">@TimHortons</a> coffee to send a kid to camp &amp; get a pair of tix to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argos?src=hash">#Argos</a> home opener! <a href="http://t.co/5yiDKJ1IyV">pic.twitter.com/5yiDKJ1IyV</a></p>&mdash; Argos Cheerleaders (@ArgosCheer) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArgosCheer/status/606070333293096960">June 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


That is a great promotion. However it is a far drive to Fort McMurray.....:)

[Will]

Yeah, one would be foolish to drive to Fort McMurray for the game :ohno::sick::)

[Argos23]

Yeah, one would be foolish to drive to Fort McMurray for the game :ohno::sick::)

Went to a location in Burlington and they do not have tix. Not sure if it is just at GTA/downtown locations.

[T-Bone]

Yeah, one would be foolish to drive to Fort McMurray for the game :ohno::sick::)
It will be fun.


Went to a location in Burlington and they do not have tix. Not sure if it is just at GTA/downtown locations.
Looks like it might be at only one location:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CampDay?src=hash">#CampDay</a>! Come say hi at the Front St &amp; Blue Jays location. Here with <a href="https://twitter.com/ArgosCheer">@ArgosCheer</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/TorontoArgos">@TorontoArgos</a> mascot Jason. <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN1050Radio">@TSN1050Radio</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TSN1050?src=hash">#TSN1050</a></p>&mdash; Kate Pettersen (@KatePettersen_) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatePettersen_/status/606072186613415936">June 3, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Will]

The Tiger-Cats have planted alumni and mascots at various locations in Hamilton for this event.

[AngeloV]

Could be a very padded house on Aug 8. They've already commited 2 free tickets for every ST purchased.

[Mightygoose]

I would think Tim's bought the ticket stock so even though they're 'free' it will count as tickets sold. The Raptors do similar promotions with select Pizza Pizza locations for some mid-week games.

Hopefully, they're decent seats.

[Neely2005]

How does the new Hamilton stadium compare with the new Ottawa stadium?



My reply:

I know that you don't set the prices and you've been a very good ticket representative for me.*

However I question the wisdom of increasing prices when announced average attendance was dow‎n 4,135 per game to only 17,791 for the 2014 season.*

The Argonauts play in a stadium that seats 52,230 for CFL Football. That means that for the 2014 season the Rogers Centre was at an average capacity of 34%. That's something that the other CFL teams that you're comparing yourself to for pricing aren't dealing with.

Also as per the pricing below that I've found online the Argonauts are among the most expensive at the low end of Season Ticket prices.

The Season Ticket price ranges are as follows:

BC $271 - $1050
Edmonton $235 -?*
Calgary $222 - $839
Saskatchewan $315 - $755 (Student and Senior pricing available)
Winnipeg $254 - $1092
Hamilton $288 -?*
Toronto $255 - $819
Ottawa ‎$229 - $918
Montreal $178 - $839

So I'm not sure who is setting the pricing but I think that they really need to reconsider the prices for Season Ticket holders as they are your most loyal and it's my understanding that you don't have that many left. Especially since I could have just waited for the in season promotions and paid less for tickets.

Given that we had a price increase for this 2015 season and that we will losing the Rogers Centre Fees does anyone think that the new owners will be dumb enough to try to institute another price increase on Season Tickets for the 2016 season?