Edmonton Eskimos elevate their game day experience

EDMONTON — From the team that once introduced the “Party in your Parka” campaign, the Edmonton Eskimos are once again elevating their game day experience to a whole new level.

The defending Grey Cup Champions are ready for a party in the stands and on the street and will bring fans a half-time performance that will rival those at the Grey Cup.

At a news conference Thursday afternoon, Eskimos President and CEO Len Rhodes made several announcements aimed at attracting younger fans, particularly those between the ages of 20 and 30.

“The young fans want to come to watch the game, but watching the game is not enough,” Rhodes said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "The young fans want to come to watch the game, but watching the game is not enough," Rhodes said.

That is why the Eskimos are introducing a standing room only party section in the stands. They’re improving the pre-game Fanfest on Stadium Road and on July 23, will bring in Flo Rida to perform at half-time.

“If you can carve out three hours of your time, we want to deliver the best experience in the stadium for these fans,” Rhodes said.

He admits this is all a reflection of changing sports trends across North America. And while they’re focused on attracting new fans, they haven’t forgotten about their past.

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Rhodes says the team is committed to marrying yesterday’s pride with tomorrow’s promising future.

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That is why the team’s new adidas-branded jerseys feature just minor changes as opposed to a major overhaul. Gone are the logos and numbers on the sleeve and shoulders. They’ve been replaced with white and gold stripes.

“We’re the Edmonton Eskimos,” Rhodes said. “We’ve been around since 1949, the pride and tradition.”

“The one area we don’t want to fool around in is the uniform. That is sacred to us and our fans wouldn’t give us the liberty and the licence to go too far.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "The one area we don't want to fool around in is the uniform. That is sacred to us and our fans wouldn't give us the liberty and the licence to go too far."

The Eskimos also announced a $2-million investment towards an LED banner in the upper level. The addition means the Wall of Honour will move down to field level.

“We’ve got to make sure we’ve got the appeal on the cosmetic side and bring in new features, especially marrying digital and technology with the stadium.”

And in an effort to promote the team’s brand and reach new fans, the Eskimos have partnered with HMSHost, an airport food service company, to launch an Eskimos-themed sports bar on the departures level at Edmonton International Airport.

The Eskimos begin their quest at back-to-back Grey Cup Championships on June 25 when they host the Ottawa REDBLACKS.