A guide to the new home of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Investors Group Field
Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/134319
GET READY TO PLAY 5 LOTS TO BRAG ABOUT INVESTORS GROUP FIELD OFFERS ULTIMATE FAN EXPERIENCE 'THE SIGHTLINES ARE FABULOUS WITH LITERALLY NOT A BAD SEAT IN THE HOUSE.' When the Winnipeg Blue Bombers describe Investors Group Field as "fan-friendly", it is much more than just a catch phrase. Here, in the first new stadium constructed in Canada in over 30 years, fans have been at the heart of it all. The result is a 33,500-seat facility that will offer Blue Bomber faithful the ultimate fan experience plus bragging rights over football foes coast to coast. "We looked at many different facilities across North America and did a lot of research on how to create the best fan experience," said Winnipeg Football Club president and CEO, Garth Buchko. "More importantly, when our fans told us about their hopes and dreams for a new stadium, we listened." In the early days, Buchko said Osborne Stadium was referred to as 'the house that Jack built', referring to football legend Jack Jacobs. "It's not an overstatement to say that Investors Group Field is the house that Blue Bomber fans helped build." Buchko said the atmosphere of excitement begins the moment you arrive when fans will see Blue Bomber flags, hear music and smell great food in the air. "It will be a festive feeling even before you enter the gates which pay homage to four of our greatest football legends." As you enter Investors Group Field, Buchko said fans will be struck by the bowl-shaped design of the stadium's lower level which provides a unique perspective for viewing the game. "With the first 12 rows beneath street grade, the sightlines are fabulous with literally not a bad seat in the house," he said. To ensure maximum fan comfort, there is extra width and leg room for each seat plus a personal cup holder, for added convenience. "In most cases, the average person will not even need to stand up to let someone go by them in the row," said Buchko. With the wrap-around concourse, he said fans will be able to go from concession to concession, never miss a play and always be part of the action. Though season ticket sales are already at record level highs, Buchko reminded fans that the new home of the Blue Bombers is a big one so there are still lots of great seats available. "Come cheer on the home team and get season tickets while you still can."