By John
If you’ve ever been to a sporting event you know the thrill: the crowd pulling together to cheer for the home team, the deathly silence before the eruption of a big play. It’s simply immersive. Unfortunately your money is immersed as well in the colossal expense that comes with being a fan. Everything that stems from sporting events (the food, merchandise, parking, and tickets) is ridiculously overpriced, but if you can’t afford cable and aren’t a part of the team yourself, how can you watch your beloved ballers?
Go to a bar or a friend’s place
It may cost you a 6-pack of beer or a couple bags of chips, but that’s nothing compared to the cost of tickets these days. Watching the game with a group of friends anywhere that has a big screen TV provides the intensity of being in the crowd with the comfort of being inside (especially during the colder months). This is one of the cheapest and most feasible alternatives and is perfect for anyone, unless you’re the kind of person who plans to paint most of their body in your home team’s colors.
Take advantage of special deals
I’m not talking about the typical dollar dog night because let’s face it, ballpark food is over-priced, overly fatty, and not exactly up to snuff. I’m more focused on the family nights, college nights, etc. These kind of promotions are typically put out if the team you’re going to see is mediocre at best and it can only help if their opponent is less than spectacular as well. Just scan the team’s calendar for a day that works for you and plan on a great time with your friends!
Avoid popular opponents
As a recent graduate of the University of Missouri I can tell you from personal experience that an increase in talent causes an increase in ticket price. For example, Missouri’s first opponent this season was lowly Southeastern Louisiana. I knew of plenty general admission tickets for that game that were selling for $15, but when #1 Alabama came in to town you could expect the same ticket to be at least $60. Sure, everyone would rather see Alabama than some college no one has heard of but football is football and we’re trying to save money here!
Try out minor league teams
They may not have the big name players or the talent level you’ve come to expect, but minor league games are certainly a bargain. Whether it’s a local club your friend plays for or a developmental league like the NBDL, MiLB, AHL, and more, minor leagues provide the atmosphere of a big-time event and daily deals designed for all ages.
Enjoy the preseason
Can’t wait for the your favorite sport to start? Well there’s no need to wait! You can watch live action of any sport months before the season officially starts thanks to summer leagues, training camps, and the preseason. You’ll get to see some of your favorite players, the future of your team, and unknowns fighting for a roster spot all at a fraction of the price of a regular season game! Some sports even pit teams from other countries against each other for an experience you’re guaranteed not to see anywhere else.
What’s your favorite way to watch your hometown heroes with breaking the bank?
