By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – The Buffalo Sabres found some secret ingredients to successful individual ticket sales. The team hosted a Kids Day at HSBC Arena Monday, and it appeared to be a winning combination.
In the first period of play, the Sabres were off to a terrific start with a two nothing lead over the Atlanta Thrashers -- giving young fans even more reason to cheer.
The Sabres decided to take advantage of the Presidents Day holiday by combining it with low ticket prices, face painting, clowns and an after-game autograph session. Adults who purchased tickets at the regular price had a chance to buy up to three additional tickets for just $8 a piece anywhere in the arena. Megan Marquis of Orchard Park regularly attends Sabres games, but this time she was able to bring along her kids. She says it is well worth it.
"It makes it more affordable for more families to go," Marquis said. "Especially if the kids are off from school or on vacation it makes it a lot easier for the parents."
High above the fan seating at HSBC Arena, Sabres director of public relations Michael Gilbert viewed the game from the press box. He says the response to this special kids day hockey game was "overwhelming."
"We've moved 5,000 to 6,000 tickets in a couple of days," Gilbert said. "We've never done that before and it is a great opportunity for the kids to come down and the parents to see a game. It's been a huge success."
It's all part of Sabres owner Tom Golisano plan to re-brand the team. He's already reduced some ticket prices making a little bit cheaper for family entertainment. Gilbert says they've noticed a recent increase in overall ticket sales.
"We do things differently then we have in the past," Gilbert continued. "We have Sabretooth's house and some other things going on in the building. Our entertainment during the game has a lot from from last year to this year. We are just trying to make the fan experience that much better."
Gilbert says the organization never expected the response it received for Monday's game. By the way, the Sabres won their fourth straight game, beating the Thrashers 7 to 2.