On Saturday, November 30, 2019, as the Great Danes finished defeating Central Connecticut by a score of 42-14 in the NCAA playoffs at Tom & Mary Casey Stadium, I am positive that Greg Gattuso did not think that it would be the last time for nearly two years that he would see fans in the UAlbany home stands. Well, that has all changed. Today the University at Albany announced that they will "open all of its athletic venues at full capacity this fall in line with updated guidance from the CDC and New York State."
According to the press release sent out by the Great Danes Athletic Department this afternoon, "After more than a year, we are thrilled to invite fans back to our competitions and other events at full capacity," said UAlbany Director of Athletics Mark Benson. "Our Great Dane student-athletes thrive on fan support. We cannot wait to see our fans tailgating in the parking lot and hear them cheer on their Great Danes as they run into Casey Stadium through a cloud of purple smoke. It has been too long, and we are excited to welcome the Capital Region back to campus."
Benson joined The Drive with Charlie & Dan this afternoon. His enthusiasm was obvious and though he is excited for students to come to games and for student athletes to have the opportunity to play in front of their family and friends, the opportunity to generate revenue is just as exciting. Most Division I athletic programs count on their home contests, especially in football and basketball, to generate much needed funds. Ticket sales, corporate advertising and alumni donations are all tied to live sporting events. Mark Benson knows the value of live events and the importance of getting supporters on campus.
The Great Danes Football team plays their first home game of the season on September 11th at 7pm. It will be their "Hometown Heroes" game. To find out how you can donate tickets to healthcare workers, first responders and military personnel, go to http://www.ualbanysports.com. It will be fun to see the crowd cheer again at Tom & Mary Casey Stadium.
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UAlbany Football Ready to Welcome Fans Back - WTMM 104.5 The Team - ESPN Radio