It’s a sweet deal.
Coastal Carolina University has unveiled a new strategy to increase football ticket sales by offering unlimited free food at concession stands during games at Brooks Stadium. Ticket holders can enjoy complimentary hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and soda with no limits on how many times they can visit the stands. This initiative, inspired by the Atlanta Falcons’ discounted menu offerings, is designed to enhance the fan experience and attract more attendees.
To keep track of the visits, fans will need to use a new university app. Each visit to the concession stand allows fans to pick up to four items, but there are no restrictions on how often they can return for more. Coastal Carolina is positioning this as a unique approach among college programs, as no other university has implemented a similar all-you-can-eat concession model.
While other professional sports teams, like the Baltimore Orioles, offer free soda refills, Coastal Carolina’s program is the first of its kind in the college sports world. This move is part of the university’s broader effort to innovate and explore new ways to engage fans and boost attendance at athletic events.
Previously, the university offered a basketball season ticket incentive, promising refunds if the men’s and women’s teams reached a combined total of 36 wins. Although the teams fell short with 33 victories, the initiative still reflected the university’s commitment to enhancing the fan experience.
With around 10,300 students enrolled, Coastal Carolina University competes in the Sun Belt Conference. Last season, the university averaged 18,622 fans per home football game. Premium season ticket prices will increase slightly this year, from $200 to $230, but officials hope that revenue from food trucks, vendors, and premium food sales will offset the costs of the free food program. Fans can experience this new initiative at the spring showcase on April 5.
