Bill Martin hints at “required donation” for 2004
SALINE, MI MARCH 30, 2003 Football season ticket renewals were sent out last week. As expected, ticket prices were raised again, this time between $1-$5, depending on the seat location and on the opponent.
The Wolverines AD has continued the policy of charging a higher amount for the better games. In 2003 there are two “premium” games on the schedule: Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Ohio State Buckeyes. It makes you wonder if the other schools feel slighted as not being designated as a premium opponent. Hmm.
Athletic director Bill Martin basically guaranteed that Michigan will institute some type of seat license or required donation program in 2004, to make up for having only 6 home games on the schedule. But I have a feeling once this fee is in place, it is here to stay.
Speaking of fees….the other change this year is the ability to renew season tickets online. I was pretty happy when I saw this feature, especially given the prospect of avoiding the $6 handling fee that is charged to renewals that are mailed in. My glee was quickly dashed when I went online to see that not only was the $6 fee still there, it was jacked up 50% to $9. In an email, the M ticket department explained that the $3 extra was added to help “cover the costs we incur for providing this convenient service.” I hope that the Michigan athletic department’s Victor’s Club doesn’t mind if I conveniently reduce my donation by 50%.
