Raiders go big while the fans stay home

“That’s always tough to ask people to come out a lot when things are getting going such as school, such as minor hockey, and other things are wrapping up,” said Scissons. “It’s a tough time to have a lot of games and we understand that.”

At the same time, Scissons said there have been certain games where attendance was expected to be higher.

Raiders’ Board president Dale McFee thinks people might still be waiting to see how the Raiders are playing this season.

“They haven’t been here but we need them. I think the boys and the coaching staff are doing their part. Now it’s up to our loyal fans to start bringing some people to the rink.”

McFee said the team is playing some very entertaining hockey.

“This is pretty fun to watch right now,” said McFee. “The people that aren’t coming now, they’re missing something.”

The fans who are showing up to the games tend to agree.

Season ticket holder Daphne Rowe was at the Raiders game against Red Deer on Friday. She said she doesn’t understand why people aren’t coming out.

“I look in the stands and I see it’s empty,” said Rowe, “These boys are playing their hearts out … for us, and it’s an empty rink.”

Rowe said she believes there could be more done to promote the games.

Linda McGunigal, who was also at Saturday’s game, believes it will take a while to get the crowds back again after less impressive seasons.

“I know everybody likes a winner,” said McGunigal. “I’m hoping now too, with the boys winning now it will bring back people.”

According to Scissons, the organization is focusing on community programs and getting the word out via social media to help increase attendance.

“I’m all ears if anybody’s got any ideas or plans,” said Scissons. “We’re a community owned team and with that I’d love to hear from the community as to ideas that they think would work or that we’d want to try.”

Despite the numbers, Scissons still believes things will turn around.

“I know it will come around. We have such great fans in Prince Albert that it will come,” said Scissons.

“It would be great to see more of them out right now.”

–With files from Nigel Maxwell

jsperling@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jnsperling

by Jill Sperling

Raiders go big while the fans stay home

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