EMPTY SEATS AT SENS GAMES
Why are fewer fans going to watch?
Re: To win back old fans, Senators need to win, Oct. 20.
In my humble opinion, Wayne Scanlan overlooked some obvious reasons for the empty seats at the Senators games: overpriced tickets, overpriced parking, overpriced beer and the length of time it takes to get out of the parking lot after a game. Also, 20 years ago (Mr. Scanlan says when the Sens were winning), fans “came by” free tickets more often than today.
In this era, many employees and clients are not allowed to accept free tickets offered by big corporations or businesses. The Sens have a huge fan base in Ottawa whether they win or lose. Just not all the fans are able, or willing to pay the price to attend. Barbara Kerr-Grant, Ottawa
Reasons to stay away from Sens
After reading the article on low attendance at Sens games, here are a couple of reasons I am staying away:
Having to wait in long lines to get into the building because there are not enough metal detectors. There is room for more machines, buy them. Being forced to buy tickets to games I don’t want to see to buy tickets to games I want to see. For example, to see Connor McDavid and the Oilers, or to be at the game when Alfie’s number will be retired, you are forced to buy a package.
When the Sens did that in the finals against Anaheim, I stayed away for a year. Charge more for the game if you want, but don’t make me buy tickets to games I don’t want to see.
I will cheer from home, though. Go, Sens, Go. Sylvain Lamarche, Ottawa
Brass wrong on Slewidge dismissal Re: Slewidge would ‘gladly’ sing anthem if Sens want him back, Oct. 18
So Lyndon Slewidge has not been offered a contract to sing anthems at Senators’ games. Often, over the past 24 years, he has been the only person on the ice with genuine talent. His wonderful baritone and his straightforward delivery are often the highlights of the game.
“As part of the Senators’ 25th anniversary celebrations, the team is trying a number of new in-arena activations for the fans, including inviting other performers and artists to sing the national anthems,” the club said.
This decision exemplifies the expression, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” One again the high-priced management got it wrong. Richard Seymour, Brechin