Van Cotts To Wait Record 77 Hours For Ducks Tickets
Published on March 19, 2008 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(Central Islip, N.Y.) - In the early morning hours, with a light rain beginning to fall, a father and son pitched a tent together. Their campsite wasn't in the woods or the backyard, but in front of the ticket window at Citibank Park. For the sixth consecutive year, Bay Shore's Dick Van Cott and his son, Ron, were the first fans to line up for opening day of Long Island Ducks individual ticket sales. They will wait an unprecedented 77 hours for the ticket window to open Saturday morning.
The vigil bests the Van Cotts' previous record of 75 hours, set in 2006 to recognize Dick's 75th birthday. Last season, the family arrived 54 hours early to celebrate the 54th anniversary of the elder Van Cott's marriage to his wife, Peggy.
"It's great to see Dick and Ron here at the ballpark once again, and we're excited about their new record," says Ducks general manager Michael Pfaff. "Their early arrival each season just goes to show that Opening Day of Ticket Sales isn't just a one day happening, but an annual Long Island event."
The Van Cotts arrived at 5:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, bringing with them a tent, lawn chairs, a heater, a television and a CD player. Peggy Van Cott serves as the men's connection to the outside world, bringing food from home and spending some time with her husband and son as they keep watch for Saturday morning. For the Van Cotts, the experience and the wait is always worth it.
"If this is the last season we're the first fans on line, we wanted to break the record one more time," says Ron. "One of these years, someone else will be first."
Dick grins as he echoes, "One of these years."
Individual Ducks tickets will go on sale on Saturday, March 22, at 10:00 a.m. amidst a carnival-like atmosphere at Citibank Park. B-103's Wiseman & Frank will emcee the event, which will feature fun and entertainment for fans of all ages. Clowns, magicians, a face painter, the Easter Bunny and, of course, QuackerJack, will all be on hand to delight the crowd. Kids can play in the Bounce House, while parents will be able to sign up for a chance to win a trip Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Ducks players and coaches will be available to sign autographs, and fans will have their first chance to purchase new 2008 Ducks merchandise at the Waddle In Shop. Refreshments will be provided by Sabrett, Herr's Chips, Entenmann's, Pepsi and Centerplate, the official food service provider of the Long Island Ducks.
Beginning at 2:00 p.m. on March 22, fans can purchase individual game tickets by calling (631) 940-TIXX, by going to www.liducks.com and clicking on the tickets icon or by visiting the Citibank Park ticket office during regular business hours.
The Long Island Ducks play their home games at Citibank Park and are entering their ninth season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. For further information, visit www.liducks.com, or call (631) 940-3825.
Atlantic League Stories from March 19, 2008
- Bluefish Newsletter - Bridgeport Bluefish
- Van Cotts To Wait Record 77 Hours For Ducks Tickets - Long Island Ducks
- Van Cotts to Wait Record 77 Hours for Ducks Tickets - Long Island Ducks
- Bears Sign Bumstead And Pellegrine To Pitching Staff - Newark Bears
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