Staff Writer
Since Team Teal began its Jaguars ticket-selling initiative in January, Tony Boselli has spoken to almost 80 clubs, organizations and businesses to sell the importance of the team to the community.
Yet, after so many trips throughout the region to repeat his message, the former Jaguar and current Team Teal commissioner says the energy is still there.
“It really is. There’s always a sense of excitement in the room,” said Boselli. “Coming out and meeting with the community really makes a difference.”
One of Boselli latest stops was the Southside Business Men’s Club.
“One of my favorite groups I get to take it (the message) to is businessmen and businesswomen,” he told the almost 60 members in the room. “From a business standpoint, we all understand ... it’s one of the most important issues that face us as a community, as a city.”
He said the team’s impact on the economy and on community pride make team support “not just about football.”
Early fan support combined with the city’s growth since the team was announced in 1993 leave Boselli believing that the city can and will support the team.
The recession combined with lack of on-field success resulted in fans being unable or unwilling to invest, but Boselli and others want to re-establish a connection.
As of Thursday, 11,018 tickets needed to be sold to lift the blackout, according to the Jaguars.
Of the total 50,957 total tickets needed to be sold to avoid blackout, 36,964 were sold as renewals and new sales and 2,975 were in group sales.
Selling tickets to avoid home-game TV blackouts would go a long way toward “showing the country” the team will be a long-term fixture in Jacksonville, said Boselli.
While the time between the team’s organized activities and training camp is generally slow for team news and ticket sales, Boselli is confident the last six weeks before preseason games will yield results.
The first preseason home game is Aug. 21, when the Jaguars play the Miami Dolphins.
“It’s a good investment,” he said. “Brighter days are around the corner for this community and this team is a part of that.”
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