Dash Hold Record Attendance Numbers for 2017 Season, Highest Number Since 2013.
The Winston-Salem Dash wrapped up their season earlier this month, setting the new record of attendance since 2013. The Dash reached a total of 304, 607 fans for the season, despite underwhelming results on the field. The Dash finished the season with a mediocre 53-80 record, but many staff members believe the fans are attracted to the ballpark more than the play on the field.
The Dash now holds the highest among all 30 High-A teams in attendance per game, averaging 4,415 fans. For 2017 they also have the highest attendance for the whole season among all 30 teams.
“Fireworks Friday is clearly the biggest hit at BB&T Ballpark; we are busiest on Fridays thanks to this promotion,” said Sierra Walters, a member of the concession staff for the Dash, who been working there since 2013. “We were so successful in 2013 for two reasons: one being the Dash’s winning record, and two being bouncy castle night. There is a reason this promotion has stuck.”
Walters works the pretzel concession stand down the right field line, right next to the bouncy castle setup. Walters saw the number of families with young children increase dramatically when the bouncy castles were promoted. Creating a family friendly environment has been a major part of why the Dash has enjoyed packed houses at home games.
“The family Sunday promotion is one of our most successful days of the week. Having the kids run the bases after the game is an effective way to have fans stay to the end of the game, buying more food, drinks, merchandise,” said media relations director Brian Boesch. He believes family Sundays are critical to the Dash’s record setting attendance numbers.
Fireworks Friday is also paired with deals on alcoholic beverages, which has brought with it a huge following in the college community nearby, particularly Wake Forest University students. Wake Forest student and lifetime Dash fan Ben Casstevens reflected on his favorite BB&T Ballpark attractions. Casstevens is a Winston-Salem native and has been coming to Dash games since he was five.
“I enjoy Friday home games the most because me and my friends can go watch a game while enjoying deals on beer and celebrating with fireworks after a Dash victory,” said Casstevens.
BB&T Ballpark is relatively new to the Dash, as their first season was in 2010. After the fan attendance success they experienced, BB&T Ballpark was named Minor League Ballpark of the Year by baseballparks.com.
It’s also no coincidence that the addition of Foothills Pub & Brewery prior to the 2013 season resulted in the highest attendance numbers ever at BB&T Ballpark. The restaurant is located over the left field fence, and has a patio viewing area where fans can enjoy local beer and food while having a great view of the game.