Ospreys bosses have today confirmed that the Early Bird deadline has been extended until July 31st, as they look to maximise the number of season-ticket holders at the Liberty Stadium next season.
OSPREYS EXTEND EARLY BIRD DEADLINE AS SEASON TICKET SALES RISE
The announcement comes as management at the region express their pleasure at the current level of sales, which are slightly up on the same stage last year despite concerns about the credit crunch and the effects that it may have on sales. Over 140 fans have also taken advantage of the new Introduce-A-Friend Scheme, which allows existing season tickets to benefit from sizeable discounts when a friend purchases a first time season ticket, with a number of people receiving the full 100% discount for introducing three people.
The Early Bird Deadline was due to pass this weekend (Saturday 18th July), but thanks to the extension, supporters now have an additional two weeks to take advantage of the cut price offers that allow them to watch the Ospreys during 2009/10 for as little as £10 per match.
Ospreys Managing Director Roger Blyth says that he is encouraged by the response to the offers so far, and he hopes that more fans will now take advantage of the extended Early Bird deadline:
"I do have to say that the response we have received to the season-ticket packages we put together for this year has been very encouraging. Obviously, when setting the prices we felt that we couldn't ignore the current economic climate, and we felt that the final costs we announced reflected these concerns. I'm absolutely delighted that like-for-like sales compared to this time last year show a slight rise despite the credit crunch, which is a clear indication that we have got the pricing right.
"Preparations for the new season are coming together nicely, on and off the field, and with the Magners League and Anglo-Welsh fixture lists now out, and the Heineken Cup groups confirmed, it allows fans to really start to get excited about the year ahead and start planning their rugby calendar.
"What is particularly pleasing is the response we have had from families to our free junior season ticket offer, as it is clear that many supporters can see for themselves what fantastic value this deal offers, with up to four children qualifying for a free season ticket with a full paying adult.
"We are all excited about our prospects next season, and it is pleasing to see that this excitement is shared by our supporters. With the Early Bird Deadline now running until the end of July, I would hope to see sales continue to remain buoyant as even more fans sign up to take advantage of these great deals."
This summer's deals have seen Ospreys bosses slash prices in all categories, with up to £20 off the price of all adult season tickets, and OAP's and student prices slashed by £35. In order to encourage the next generation of Ospreylians to develop the habit of watching live rugby regularly, for the first time ever, child and junior season tickets are being offered in the Family Stand at no cost whatsoever when issued in conjunction with an family adult ticket.
Adult season tickets start at just £160, with OAP and students paying just £120, when purchased before the Early Bird Deadline, and the cut price season ticket prices are available to existing and new season ticket holders alike. Keeping the credit crunch in mind, full price tickets purchased after this date have been frozen at last year's cost.
Under the terms of the 'Introduce a Friend' deal, any existing season ticket holder who introduces a friend who has never previously held a season ticket, will receive a 25% discount on the price they pay. That discount rises to 50% when two friends are introduced, and incredible 100% for three introductions, meaning that existing season ticket holders get to experience top-flight rugby without paying a single penny.
The season ticket will be valid for 15 homes matches next season, and all home Ospreys / Development and Academy fixtures. In addition, all season ticket holders will receive free Ospreys membership, benefits of which include 10% discount at the Liberty Stadium, 10% off the purchase price for any additional matchday tickets, priority access to any potential knockout/play off matches and entry into a members draw for Wales international tickets.