We Got Wood - 47.30 - Home Attendance Record Set

[7teen]

Thinking this was a season the team was set to turn the corner, Portland ownership and the city itself decided to expand the Trail at Multnomah by 5,000 seats. The addition increased the stadium size from 40,000 to a new capacity of 45,000. Ownership and the front office hoped the increase in stadium size would boost attendance numbers resulting in increased revenue for the 2047 season.

Unfortunately, that hadn't been happening for most of the season. The Lumberjacks were averaging just under 30,000 fans for much of April. Warmer weather and school being out saw a small increase in fans in May. But now, with the team winning a little bit and the summer days in full swing, attendance is starting to soar in Portland and fans are coming out to see what the fuss is about with this team. In fact, in the series over the weekend with Seattle, the Lumberjacks witnessed the largest crowd in franchise history.

"In Saturday's win over Seattle" commented team owner David Wallace, "44,532 fans watch our boys in green defeat Seattle 4-1. Thanks to the increase in seats, it was our largest home crowd since we began playing back in 2047. We are optimistic that fans will continue to come to the ball park like they did this weekend and begin to see this team become true contenders in the Frick League Pacific."

Again thanks to the increase in stadium capacity, the 4-game series saw another record for a home series. The following day, over 40,000 fans turned out to watch yet another Lumberjacks win over the Storm. This was preceded by 41,000+ at the game Friday and over 37,000 fans turned out for the weekday, Thursday night game. Over 150,000 fans showed up for the 4-game tilt with Seattle, a 4-game series record.

"Fans turn out for these Seattle games" said Wallace. "I guess the close proximity of these two interdivision rivals makes for an easy commute for both Lumberjack and Storm fans."

The increase in ticket sales is a welcome sign to the front office who is showing some concerns over a floundering budget for 2048. Despite the boost in attendance the last few weeks, Portland is still showing about 2,000 fewer fans per game this year compared to last season. This despite selling more season tickets this year compared to last. This due in large part to a mysterious loss of $13,000,000 in season ticket money.

"That's under investigation still" added Wallace. "We are fairly confident it'll be found in the books and the budget will be fine in 2048."