Originally posted by IUPNation
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Hard to say. They (football) didn't draw terribly this year prior to last week (eliminated and crappy weather isn't a good combo).
IUP probably had 5k to 6k on average (realistically, not announced).
Don't get me wrong. Miller may get 5,500 but it's not an engaged crowd by any means. It's still dead in there. In addition, they allow you to keep tailgating after kickoff so every week there's another 500 or so who don't even come inside.
Being honest, it's still just a very dull atmosphere. Other than selling booze inside the gates (they should) I don't know what else to say.
One suggestion (on the Eberly end) would be to put a fence behind the end zone and let fans stand there (close to the goalpost). A ton of people stand down in that area (near the refreshments) but the view is terrible. Having that end zone lined with people (think Indiana High) would be a major upgrade compared to the now vast empty space.
Basketball gets way more enthusiastic crowds, but Joe also draws a much younger demographic. The KCAC also sells beer, wine and mixed drinks that you can take to your seats.
Section C has been the (enthusiasm) issue forever. They don't make a peep and they are right behind the team.
Best atmosphere this year - by a mile - was the Ashland game. It was a night game. What a shock. Coincidence, I'm sure. When Zinobile caught the game-winner, it was a loud moment.
As for Indiana High, it's tricky. IHS has an arrogance to it ... comes across like they are above the Heritage Conference. Add to it, forever IHS was so much bigger, enrollment-wise. Now, as these Heritage schools are combining, IHS is still bigger but not to the previous extent. The other option would be to go out with Altoona, etc. Travel-wise, it's not much better. Worse, perhaps. Now, if Ligonier Valley comes back to the Heritage (they aren't nearly as good in the WPIAL), who knows. Driving buses up across the mountain all winter isn't fun.
IHS actually has some good players this year (and most years). They just have far too few of them. I suspect Tort will recruit their Safety/LB (Kowchuck) in this upcoming class. They may even convert him to TE. He's big (6'5") but just needs to add some weight.
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