Coachella Valley Firebirds Announce Season Changes for Accessibility and Affordability

The Coachella Valley Firebirds have announced several changes for their upcoming fourth season, aimed at making games more accessible and affordable for fans. The American Hockey League team will open its season on October 10th against the San Diego Gulls at Acrisure Arena.

John Page, Senior Vice President of Acrisure Arena and the Firebirds, outlined the changes during an interview on our morning show with Mary Strong. The modifications come after the organization surveyed fans and analyzed feedback following an early playoff exit that gave them time to evaluate their operations.

Key Changes for the 2024 Season

Reduced Parking Costs: Daily parking has been reduced to $20. The change addresses fan complaints about expensive parking costs. "It was too expensive," Page acknowledged. "For the day game and our individual game buyer, it's a significant reduction in our parking price."

Affordable Food Options: The arena will introduce "pocket-friendly" food and beverage items, including grab-and-go options and items priced under $10. The outdoor Oasis patio area will feature grilling opportunities and a happy hour environment with wine and beer specials, particularly for weekday games.

Earlier Weekday Start Times: Weekday games will now begin at 6:30 p.m., moved up 30 minutes from the previous 7:00 p.m. start time. The change was made after surveying fans about preferences for families with school-aged children and older demographics who prefer earlier dining and entertainment times.

Flexible Ticketing Options: The team has replaced its previous flex pack system with structured options, including new 9-game plans that allow fans to select specific games and incorporate theme nights and weekend packages.

Reasoning Behind Changes

Page said the organization focused on four main goals: "accessibility, affordability, convenience, which ultimately will hopefully lead to enjoyability."

The Firebirds experienced two deep playoff runs in their first three seasons, reaching the Calder Cup finals twice. Page noted that the early exit this past season provided an opportunity to "really think about the feedback and how we can pivot and do the right thing for everybody that attends our games."

Individual game tickets will go on sale September 9th. The team's coach is expected to return to town next week as the season approaches.

The changes aim to both retain current fans and expand the team's fan base in the Coachella Valley, with Page emphasizing the organization's goal to be "more accessible at the end of the day to everybody."