University of Delaware Athletic Director Christine Rawak says changes on the way to rebuild relationships with season ticket-holders and reverse a sharp decline in sales.
“Over these last several months, I have received very valuable feedback that I can tell you is helping to shape our path forward. I understand your frustration and disappointment over some of the decisions made in recent years, decisions that have impacted you directly. I want you to know that we have listened,” she wrote.
“I am pleased to share with you that, beginning in 2017, we will be removing the requirement to make athletic donations in seat sections A through N. This is a change in policy that has been asked for by our constituents and one that will result in direct savings to many. We hope this decision will demonstrate to you that we are listening. The donations for premium box seating and season parking will remain in place. More specific information regarding pricing and how to purchase new season tickets will be available in January,” Rawak wrote.
She went on to write the change is “the first of many steps to come. We are in an important moment for the Delaware football program, and we need you: We need you here with us, and we need you to help us bring others here. I believe we are on the road to reviving the winning traditions and we want you to be a part of it with us.”
The parking changes and seat donations have been unpopular with long-time fans of the football program who noted the hikes came without improvements to the stadium.
UD also has a unique football fan base, since many ticket-holders are not alumni.
Requirements on other premium seats had been eased a couple of years ago.
The football program has also struggled after its declining fortunes led to the firing of national championship coach K.C. Keeler followed this year by the mid-season sacking of Dave Brock. Keeler moved on to Sam Houston State, which is now in the playoffs.
Among smaller universities, UD football attendance remains in the upper tier. However, unlike some universities in the Mid-Atlantic, UD did not launch major improvements at its stadium.
Rawak came to Delaware in May with experience in fund-raising efforts in an athletic department post at the powerhouse athletic program at the University of Michigan.
