The Okotoks Dawgs continue to receive incredible support from the community, and 2010 was the best year yet.
BallparkBiz.com recently released the 2010 Collegiate Summer League Attendance Rankings, and once again the Dawgs are in with the elite. The past two seasons, the Dawgs were ranked 10th in North America for per-game attendance, which is a great achievement, but this year the Dawgs climbed even higher.
With a mark of 2223 fans per game, the Okotoks Dawgs were ranked the 5th best attendance draw in North America for collegiate summer league. The 2223 average represents an increase of 404 over last year’s average of 1819. The Dawgs are extremely appreciative for the loyal support the team receives year after year from Okotoks and the surrounding communities, and Dawgs fans should be very proud.
Every summer at Seaman Stadium is memorable, but the summer of 2010 reached another level. The first season at Seaman Stadium, in 2007, saw the Dawgs average over 1600 fans per game, followed by two straight seasons averaging just over 1800 per game, which was 10th best in North America.
However, it was clear early on this year that 2010 was going to be much bigger. Opening Night saw 2600 fans, and the first six games in Okotoks this year recorded crowds in excess of 2000. For the month of June, nine games exceeded the 2000 mark.
And then the calendar flipped to July 1. Canada Day 2010 at Seaman Stadium is a night that nobody will soon forget. There was a buzz in the air early, and the ballpark was filling up over an hour before game time. By the time it finally filled up, a Dawgs record 4012 fans were in attendance to help the Dawgs to an 11-4 victory.
Dawgs Managing Director John Ircandia comments on the past season, "We cannot express how appreciative we are of this support by Dawgs fans not only in Okotoks and the communities of the Foothills but this past season saw more fans than ever from Calgary who have discovered what an incredible all round, family experience it is at Seaman Stadium. So this recognition is truly "one for Dawgs fans everywhere."
The excitement never let up in July as the season came down the stretch into playoffs, seeing several more crowds close to, or over 3000. Even though the team fell short on the field this year, you never gave up on them, as the second round playoff series against Swift Current saw over 5400 fans come out for the two home games in Okotoks.
There is nothing more enjoyable than spending a summer evening in the atmosphere of Seaman Stadium. The crowds at the games every night help the Dawgs on the field, says infielder Drew Pettit, “Playing in front of great fans makes coming out to the park even more enjoyable. If you ever needed an extra lift, seeing the town come out and support like they did was all anyone would ever need.”
The Dawgs truly are thankful for the support you give the team; without you, the fans, Dawgs Baseball at Seaman Stadium would not be what it is today. You have helped turn the Dawgs into a desired summer destination for college baseball players across Canada, and the USA.
Outfielder Justin Ritchhart sums it up perfectly,
“Gotta love being a Dawg! Greatest fans in baseball!”
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