Argos axe tailgating as part of 2018 changes

The Argos are throwing it back to the SkyDome and Rogers Centre days.

The double blue is kiboshing tailgating at games for the 2018 season.

During first year at BMO in 2016, the @TorontoArgos campaign was all about tailgating. There will be no tailgating at Argos games in 2018. Costs associated were not worth benefits, according to new Argos prez Bill Manning. #CFL #Argos

— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) April 9, 2018

That was something former president Michael Copeland fought hard to get for when the Argos moved to BMO Field in 2016. It’s the first decision Manning has made publicly since taking over the role.

And BMO Field will have a familiar look for Argonauts fans who attended games at their old home.

The @TorontoArgos will close off the upper east side of BMO field, creating a capacity of just under 20k, including suites. Idea is to create better football atmosphere. #CFL #Argos

— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) April 9, 2018

Toronto averaged 13,913 fans per game in 2017, the lowest total in the CFL by more than 5,000.

Press of @TorontoArgos Bill Manning said goal for 2018 is to add a few thousand fans per game in “actual attendance” and sell-out the 20k bowl a few times. #Argos #CFL

— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) April 9, 2018

Manning is hoping to boost ticket sales by lowering ticket prices.

Manning also said there will be ticket price reduction for @TorontoArgos. Last season were priced higher than @torontofc. #CFL #Argos

— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) April 9, 2018

Michael “Pinball” Clemons has been appointed by MLSE to help build the Argos brand.

MLSE has made @pinball it’s latest ambassador. #CFL #Argos

— Dave Naylor (@TSNDaveNaylor) April 9, 2018

Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment’s acquisition of the Argos was approved in January by the league. Incorporating the team into MLSE’s business approach is happening.