Spectrum press box now a money maker
Fans may not notice any changes to the press box in the Spectrum.
However, according to Kent Stanley, senior associate athletic director, the athletic department is hoping to notice some changes in their budget due to the renovated press box.
The press box, which has traditionally been used by the media and Spectrum employees, is now being used as a suite for fans. The main middle section of the press box has been renovated into a 21-person suite.
“We had an opportunity to create a different kind of gameday experience for people at home basketball games,” Stanley said. “I think returns have been favorable.”
According to athletic media relations director Doug Hoffman, the number one goal is to raise money.
“We are exploring new options trying to generate new revenue,” Hoffman said. “It’s more than just raising money, it’s providing an extra opportunity for Aggie fans and boosters.”
The middle section has been painted and cleaned up, and flat screen TVs and a snack fair have been installed. People who lease the suite also have the option of using USU Catering.
The suite is leased for $1,800 a game, and so far has been a success, Stanley said.
“We are excited about the folks that have stepped up and are getting involved with using it already this year,” Stanley said.
An extra row of media seats has been added to the south side of the spectrum, directly behind the existing media row. Hoffman said this was installed in order to help compensate for lost space due to the new suite. Hoffman also said they have a lot further to go before there will be adequate space for the media.
The new row of media seats is placed in an area that was previously used as a buffer between fans and the media. Now the fans are right next to the media.
“The situation right now is not ideal,” Hoffman said. “It is cramped to say the least.”
The idea of the suite was initially implemented because the athletic department thought the press box was being underutilized. Members of the media may have tighter quarters now, but it is to help the athletic department.
“Whatever you can do to help the department as a whole is something that everybody has to be in favor of,” Hoffman said.
Stanley agreed.
“It’s an under-utilized facility,” Stanley said. “On college campuses you have to continue to find underutilized facilities and make them utilizable facilities any time you can. I think it’s a great opportunity.”
The suite will be available for 16 basketball games this season. Standley said they are projecting it will to be used 10 or 11 times. Stanley said the suite is usually leased by businesses that are entertaining clients. The suite has also been used for some family reunion activities.
“Its just something we decided to roll out this winter,” Stanley said. “Whether or how we will continue to do it in the future, we will have to see.”
–p.d.k@aggiemail.usu.edu