The Jacksonville Jaguars made a somewhat peculiar announcement today, that the traditional pre-season scrimmage in Jacksonville Municipal Stadium would be open to the public... the season ticket holding public, only.
Uh oh.
Personally, I like the move. I think it shows the Jacksonville Jaguars mean business, and they're done bending over backwards to give people access to the team. They are already one of the most accessible teams in the NFL in regards to fans interacting with their players.It is time that the people willing to put their money behind the team got put ahead of those just looking for the freebie. The freeloaders who wont back the team unless they are given the world for free, still get a week or so of free practices.
This was one of the first initial reactions I saw on Twitter from a Jaguars fan. I can't say I disagree with the notion. Routinely the Jaguars would pull 10,000+ fans at the scrimmages, but would struggle at the ticket gate. The scrimmages of course, are free to the public.
I'm not sure how many tickets the scrimmages move, anyways. Chances are if you're out watching practice in the Florida summer weather and going to scrimmage games, you've likely got season tickets already. What it does however, is create another "perk" for season ticket holders. It makes it more of an "exclusive" type event.
Here's the rest of the Jacksonville Jaguars training camp schedule that is open to the public:
FAN GUIDELINES: As stated earlier, training camp practice sessions will be open for viewing by the public from Friday, July 30 through Thursday, August 5. Restroom facilities and concessions will be available. Concession stands will include food and beverages as well as Jaguars merchandise, including training camp-specific t-shirts and caps. The Jaguars’ 2010 media guide and yearbook will also be available for $10 each.
PRACTICE SCHEDULE: The schedule throughout training camp is subject to change, but currently is as follows:
Friday, July 30 Practice at 10:45 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 31 Practice at 10:45 a.m. (special teams only) and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, August 1 Practice at 10:45 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Monday, August 2 Practice at 10:45 a.m. (special teams only) and 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 3 Practice at 10:45 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 4 Practice at 10:45 a.m. (special teams only) and 4:00 p.m.
Thursday, August 5 Practice at 10:45 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. --- last day practices are open to the public