The Columbus Blue Jackets Chief Marketing Officer John Browne said today that the club’s final home game and season finale Saturday night versus the Nashville Predators isn’t sold out—yet.
“We’re definitely expecting a great crowd,” he said of the Jacket’s 7 p.m. game at Nationwide Arena that could very well be the game that clinches the club’s second playoff berth—or could be the end to a spectacular season. “There are still tickets available.”
Saturday is also fan appreciation night, where team posters will be given to all in attendance, as well as prize giveaway’s and the “Shirts off our backs” promotion, where fans are randomly selected to come on the ice after the game, meet the players and, literally, get the jerseys off their backs.
“It’s going to be fun,” said Browne, who added that the way the Blue Jackets have played this season—an unbelievable underdog tale of rags to riches as they continue their playoff push in this final week of regulation hockey—has excited fans enough to see an increase over last year in season ticket sales. Particularly after their early renewal promotion guaranteeing playoff seats if the Jackets make the top eight in the western conference.
“We finished about 15 percent higher than last year at the same time,” said Browne of season ticket sale renewals. “That’s very encouraging. Obviously fans want to be a part of this club moving forward.”
New season ticket sales for next year are also strong, said Browne.
“There’s definitely a lot of excitement and interest—people are optimistic about where the team is headed in the future,” said Browne, adding that the club’s draft picks and the move to the Eastern conference have inspired new Columbus fans to open their wallets. “The moves that (management) made, made a wonderful statement to the fans. It shows we’re serious about being competitive on the ice. And people are excited about it.”
You can go to bluejackets.nhl.com to purchase season tickets or tickets for Saturday’s finale.
The Blue Jackets play one last time before Saturday’s game. Tune into Fox Sports Ohio Thursday at 8:30 p.m. to watch the club take on the Dallas Stars.
