putter said:
AZGrizFan said:
A fan base that feels entitled to a victory because of how far they traveled isn't a fan base at all.
I don't think it is being entitled to a victory. I remember OOC tickets being $15, now they are $35 with homecoming and the Cats being $60 or more. E-Griz alone raised about $250K for the Champions Center so fans have stepped up and have ownership in the success of this program and these fans like a winning program. I remember losing to Delaware in '93 and fans were upset but they were energized because Montana was starting to become a constant playoff program and relavant on the national scene. We have now done a 180 and are non-ranked and a middle of the pack Big Sky program yet paying for an NDSU type of program. This will always cause discontent.
I like a winning program too. I donate thousands of dollars specifically to the athletic department and its facilities each year (yes, through the eGriz drive that Brint set up) and I don't even have the OPTION of buying season tickets. I root from afar and am jealous for those who are able to make it to every game--no matter the cost (thats also why I don't get misssing the entire 3rd quarter to do something you can do 365 days a year).
Money doesn't guarantee winning. Facilities don't guarantee winning. Prior years of winning doesn't guarantee winning. Before people are ready to throw out the baby with the bath water I'd only ask they wait to see how the season plays out. One game does not a season make.
By the way: I DO make the long trek to Lubbock, TX each weekend for the Tech home games. 394 miles each way. Rain or shine. Win or lose. And I sit in the stand and don't miss a play. My season tickets (2 seats w/parking) cost over $1900 for 6 games. I haven't missed a home game in three years. Have also attended games in Dallas (twice) and Houston (once). Last year we were 4-7 and this year the stadium is still filled to capacity. FANS. And I don't hear anybody bitch about how far they drive.