The Great American Entertainment of Attending Big League Baseball Games
More families are opting out of the great American entertainment of attending big league baseball games than previously. Some are staying at home and watching the games on TV, but increasing numbers of families are swarming to junior league ballparks. Small time baseball attendance has grown each year, reaching a new high 39 million in the 2005 season. Big league attendance continues to decline in several markets.
Though many reasons have been offered by Big League Baseball including changing demographics and competition from other sports and entertainment places, cost is a definite account for lagging attendance. The medium cost for a family of 4 to go to a big league baseball game in 2005 topped $170.00 for tickets, refreshments and keepsakes though not including parking. The price tag for that very same family to go to a small time baseball game in 2005 was $80.00, less than half the price of attending a top game. For that price, junior league fans are treated to displays by emerging young stars who might be tomorrow’s Barry Bonds or Alex Rodriguez. Small time baseball follows the same rules as big league, and most junior league groups are linked with a big league team. Due to this organisation, small time fans may now and then be treated to an appearance by a top star rehabbing from an injury in the minor leagues.
Thomas J.
Lucie, Florida is the home of the Single A St. Fans frequently sit right along the baselines with nothing separating them from players but a railing. Players often sign autographs before and after the games. Due to the increasing popularity of junior league baseball, groups have managed to build increasingly fascinating stadiums with conveniences that rival their big league opposite numbers. Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Florida was assembled with the same design and comforts as bigger stadiums like Baltimore’s Camden Yards and Turner Field in Atlanta but offers fans a private experience that isn’t available at the bigger parks. For more casual fans, junior league groups offer entertainment like shows by local music artists, fireworks and special promotions like disco night or Christian night. Some parks, like Hammons Field in Springfield, Missouri, have children’s play areas close to the bullpens and on-field activities for youngsters including running the bases, games and contests.
Source: Adidas