TIM LEMKE — Nats can fill stands – The Wash. Times
Lemke offers five suggestions to improve the slumping Nationals attendance. I’m adding mine as well and agree that winning cures all.
Focus on the kids – Yup, really go after tomorrow’s fans today. Perhaps selling a more kid friendly, half-half smoke. I don’t have much to add to this one other than I am very eager to take Will to his first game, probably after he is old enough for t-ball or little league. I want him to be in awe of the ballpark when he first goes.
Care what people think- This is one of the biggest shortcomings of ownership, they are completely tone deaf to the D.C. market. That means recognizing that the same city council that voted on funding the ballpark is typically a bunch of reactionary children. Learn when to flatter them and avoid giving them things to get righteous indignation, justified or not, whenever possible. Also, keep in mind the ballpark was exactly clamored for by the city, so be gracious about it even though you are paying for it. Allowing D.C. school teams one day of practice there is a good step. Also, get players out in the community more.
Embrace the local competitors – I don’t like the way this is termed, but Lemke wants the Nats to work more with the Capitals. Good thinking, there has been a little bit of that already. Don’t limit it to the Capitals either. A handful of Redskins are at Capitals games all the time right now, get them at Nats games too. Bring in Redskins draft picks/free agent signings to throw out the first pitch. When someone makes the hall of fame, bring them in. People would have shown up for Art Monk throwing out the first pitch. Additionally, bring in Wizards, Mystics, even DC United players form time to time, especially at the beginning of their seasons. Don’t forget to celebrate all-star selections. Also, get prominent Nats in stands, doing coin flips, whatever at these other teams games.
Get creative – How about a new mascot — Lola from Damn Yankees? Seriously, though have “Virginia Night” “Maryland Night” “Petworth Night” etc. Straight Cash Homey night where anyone wearing a jersey/shirt of a former player gets in for half-price or something.
Sign Stephen Strasburg- At this point, duh.
