The region once again enjoyed a successful time on and off the pitch during 2007-2008, becoming the first Welsh side to win the EDF Energy Cup as well as progressing to the knockout stages of the Heineken Cup for the first time. Once again the Ospreys boasted the highest average crowd in Wales, with an average of 9,226, and now bosses are hoping that they will be able to grow that figure even higher next season.
As well as saving money over the course of the campaign, for the first time season ticket holders will get free admission to all Ospreys home Academy fixtures which will be played at Llandarcy, as well as a series of development fixtures that have been sanctioned by the WRU ahead of next season that will be held at club grounds across the region. There is a particular emphasis on ensuring it is affordable for families to support the region, with season tickets for under 12s costing just £20.
Ospreys Managing Director Roger Blyth said: “It is always a difficult balancing act when setting costs for the year ahead. Inevitably there are price rises, but we have kept these to a minimum and have ensured that watching the Ospreys remains an affordable hobby for families. We will have an additional home fixture in the EDF Energy Cup next season, so in real terms, the increase for those who take advantage of the early bird offer is minimal.
“The season ticket will cover fifteen fixtures at the Liberty Stadium; nine Magners League matches, three Heineken Cup pool stage games, two in the EDF Energy Cup and also, the Shane Williams Testimonial match which will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
“As with last season, we have three different categories of seating, offering a variety of prices, with an early bird discount available to those who buy prior to 19th July. With Category C season tickets available for just £180, it means that adults can watch the Ospreys for just £12 per game, which still represents outstanding value.
“We have also extended the season ticket offering so that it now includes all Academy fixtures, and also, the new ‘A’ team fixtures that will take place throughout the region. As well as providing greater value for money, we hope that this initiative will encourage supporters to take a greater interest in the next generation of Ospreys coming through.”
Season-ticket holders will also receive free automatic registration to the Ospreys Membership scheme. Normally costing £35 per person, the scheme entitles members to a 10% loyalty discount on any transactions made at the Ospreys Superstore, 10% off the cost of full price match tickets purchased, priority access to international tickets & away travel packages, along with other benefits to be added as the season unfolds.
For the first time, supporters are able to take advantage of a payment plan that allows them to spread the cost of their season ticket over ten months, subject to credit. In addition, existing season ticket holders can now renew their season tickets online, saving themselves a trip to the Liberty Stadium Ticket Office.
Roger Blyth explained: “We realise that our supporters come not only from the length and breadth of Ospreylia, but actually, from all corners of the UK, so for many, a trip to the Liberty Stadium is not always feasible so we have introduced an online ordering facility at our website www.ospreysrugby.com.
“This service allows existing season ticket holders wishing to retain their existing seat, to jump the queue. There is an administration fee in place for this of £11, set by the service provider, but as an incentive to encourage fans to use this option, all online renewals will go into a draw, with five winners receiving a pair of hospitality tickets for the Shane Williams Testimonial match, whilst two child renewals will also be drawn to be a mascot at the first home Magners League game of the season.”
