BlueClaws Closing in on 4-Million Fans
Published on July 28, 2009 under South Atlantic League (SAL1)
Jersey Shore BlueClaws News Release
LAKEWOOD, N.J. - After all the numbers were tallied at their July 20th home game, the BlueClaws had officially crossed the 3.9 million fan plateau and are now within 100,000 fans of the 4-million mark, a milestone they will reach in the coming weeks.
Entering their nine-game homestand, which begins Friday, the BlueClaws have welcomed 305,669 fans through the FirstEnergy Park gates this year, and are 98,953 away from 4-million. The BlueClaws were the fastest in New Jersey and South Atlantic League history to reach 1-million, 2-million, and 3-million, and will be the fastest to reach 4-million.
"It's a tribute to our fans that we've been able to come so far in such a short time," said BlueClaws General Manager Geoff Brown, who has been with the BlueClaws in the same role since the team's 2001 inception. "We've always strived for affordable, family entertainment, and I think we've done that for nine years."
The 4-millionth fan will receive the following: two season tickets to the 2010 BlueClaws (with Upstairs Club and VIP Parking passes), an autographed team bat, a BlueClaws "4-million" jersey, $50 gift certificate to the ClawsCove, and the chance to take batting practice with the BlueClaws.
Sean Morales of Jackson was the 1-millionth fan, on April 26th, 2003. Al Spinney of Manahawkin became the 2-millionth fan on June 22nd, 2005. Finally, on July 16th, 2007, Lou Ameika of Lakewood became the 3- millionth fan through the gates.
The BlueClaws began play in 2001 and have led the South Atlantic League in average or overall attendance in each year of existence. They have drawn at least 425,000 fans to FirstEnergy Park in each of their first eight years and are on track to top 440,000 in 2009.
Overall, 29 former BlueClaws have reached the Major Leagues including National League MVP Ryan Howard and World Series MVP Cole Hamels. This year, by virtue of winning the first-half title, the BlueClaws have made the playoffs for the second time in team history. They were league champions in 2006.
Playoff four-packs and tickets to all remaining 2009 regular season home games are now on sale by calling 732-901-7000, in person at the BlueClaws Box Office, or online at BlueClaws.com.
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