Well, I won't comment on our marketing plans (
), but the point he was making is that having 7 homes games works (financially,) instead of having two body bag games, IF you get a certain level of attendance. He stated where that benchmark is, and correctly pointed out that these first two home games offer the best opportunity to realize those attendance numbers. I think the USM game is also an opportunity for good attendance. But, it's hard to argue against his point.
I am no fan of TMac. I have stated before I think he's in over his head and Tech could do much better at AD. But, on this issue, I can't find a flaw in what he said. He's right....as far as the numbers go.
Back to the marketing question....at what point is it the responsibility of "Tech Nation" to pick itself up by its bootstraps and stop blaming "marketing" for any perceived lack of attendance/support? I know two Tech grads, former members of the BOP, who graduated 10 years ago and have NOT been back to Aillet for a game. Oh, and they live in West Monroe, so distance is hardly an excuse. They are a married couple, both say they enjoyed their experiences in the band, love Tech and want the Dawgs to win every Saturday! Yet...they can't seem to make the effort to attend even an occasional game. Please tell me what marketing campaign will motivate people like them to make the short drive.
I just looked at the schedule. Every home game has a special event connected to it, be it Homecoming or Military Appreciation Day, etc... so, I commend those responsible for at least thinking this through to that point. It should help boost attendance, even a little, for each home date.
Ah, one more thing (Columbo), I stated "perceived" lack of attendance. We average 22K+. In a rural area, with two other, albeit a couple of jokes, football programs, and in a state that is purple & gold crazy, are we really doing that bad? Years ago I posted an analysis that compared our attendance to LSU's and using the population numbers within 70 miles, to match our percentage of support LSU would have to average 300K. Even if Tigger Stadium was big enough to accommodate that many, would they really average 300K?
Point is, are we really doing that poorly?