Coming off of an AP top 25 finish, the University of Memphis announced there will be an increase in season ticket prices for the 2015 football season, earlier this month.
Taylor Oaks, 24, a U of M graduate and now marketer for Darrell Castle and Associates, said he will be renewing his tickets for the third consecutive season.
Oaks said it never crossed his mind when making the decision to renew his season ticket, but he totally understands why they were raised.
“I’m totally into paying higher prices for a better product,” Oaks said. “I’m a big Tigers fan, and I’m available on Saturdays so it’s convenient. It’s easy to go to games, and it’s a good product.”
Ticket prices have gone up across the board, lower sideline seats have increased from $150 to $200, and endzone/upper sideline seats have increased from $55 to $89 for season tickets. Box (chairback) seats have increased from $250 to $300.
All season ticket packages include tickets to the probably the most anticipated home game next season when Ole Miss come to the Liberty Bowl on Oct. 17.
One positive for Tiger fans is despite the raise in prices, they will only be paying the second lowest season tickets rates in the American Athletic Conference. The U of M will also still be able to lay claim to the fact they are one of the few FBS schools with no donation required for an individual seat.
Deputy Director of U of M Athletics Wren Baker said they spent considerable time analyzing and researching ticket prices, and after that research now is the time to move forward with the new pricing structure.
"In order for us to build and sustain a competitive football program we must increase revenues to provide better resources for our coaches and student-athletes,” Baker said in a press release. “At the same time, we are very sensitive to the impact ticket prices have on our loyal fans and want to ensure Tiger Football remains one of the best values in all of college sports."
The U of M Athletic Department also plans to unveil a new rewards program for season ticket holders in the coming weeks that will include access to special events, guest-ticket privileges and discounts on concessions, merchandise and more. Details will be released later this month.
Oaks said with the way the U of M men’s basketball season has gone, he is very excited for next season.
Taylor Smith, also a U of M graduate, has been a season ticket holder since his freshman year of high school in 2003.
“I’m a lifelong Tiger fan,” Smith said. “Even if the prices quadrupled. It still wouldn't be a question (whether to renew or not).”
Although Smith said he is paying more attention to Tigers football this offseason, because they finished in the top 25.
“This is the first time I’ve followed the updates,” Smith said. “With the way basketball season is going, I’m very excited and ready for September.”
Fans that purchased 2014 season tickets can complete the renewal process online at gotigersgotix.com, and the deadline to complete renewals and ensure priority seating is May 15.
New season ticket buyers can also secure their tickets and select their seats online from all available inventory in Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium at gotigersgotix.com.
For more information visit gotigersgo.com or call the U of M ticket office at 901-678-2331.
