Rampage looking to put 2004 behind them...literally

Published on October 12, 2004 under Arena Football League (1987-2008) (AFL I)
Grand Rapids Rampage News Release


The Grand Rapids Rampage Arena Football team "unrolled" their 2005 season ticket renewal campaign this week with each season ticket holder receiving a roll of toilet paper with "1 and 15" printed on each sheet wrapped in a message that read "It's time to put last season behind us."

"We were sitting around earlier this summer in a room with our advertising agency (Justice & Monroe) and the statement was made we truly have to put 2004 behind us," said Bob Sack, Rampage senior vice president of sales and marketing.

"Our agency took it literally and there was a burst of laughter the first time we tested the idea. Let's make one more statement to our core fans - hey, last year is done and over - and we think the roll of toilet paper does that. Plus, we wanted to have a little fun, too."

This is the beginning of an aggressive advertising campaign for renewals and new season ticket holders. Television, print and radio ads will begin on November 1 as well as the re-launching of the team's website, RampageFootball.com.

In 2004, the Rampage suffered through their worst season in the franchise's seven-year history with a 1-15 record. The offense ranked last among the 19 teams in nearly every offensive category. Defensively they finished 18th in total defense, 16th in passing defense and last in average points allowed.

Instead of asking season ticket holders to renew immediately following the season as the team did in the previous six years, the Rampage told their most loyal fans to wait until a new coach was named and free agency opened to show that a season like 2004 is not acceptable and will not happen again.

On August 13, the team named Sparky McEwen head coach. McEwen-coached offenses over the past four seasons have scored more points and gained more yards than any team in all of Arena Football. The Rampage also hired former Houston Oilers linebacker Robert Lyles as Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator. Lyles' defenses in the AFL have ranked in the top five with Portland and Los Angeles. His defense in 2001 was the best in the AFL.

On the players front, Grand Rapids has signed the top free agent FB/LB in Chris Avery and former Division II standouts and NFLers Curt Anes and Clarence Coleman. The team is on the verge of making some other key additions in the next couple of days.

Rampage season tickets for eight exciting, high-scoring home games start at $135. Flex and mini plans are also available. For more information, please contact the Rampage offices toll-free at 1.888.595.4878.

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Arena Football League (1987-2008) Stories from October 12, 2004


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