You might think that season ticket holders for the Pittsburgh Steelers would not have to make their typical annual payments until the NFL and the players reach a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. Not so. The Steelers are among 31 teams league-wide that are requiring their most loyal ticket-purchasing patrons to decide if they will be renewing their tickets for 2011 in the spring, regardless of whether a new CBA is in place or not. The lone team that has decided to allow fans to wait until the labor impasse is resolved is the New York Giants. For the Steelers, payments are due by May 2.
↵In a letter to season ticket holders, Steelers team president Art Rooney II explained that customers would receive a full refund in the event that the 2011 season is either canceled or shortened by the ongoing lockout. But Rooney doesn't think that scenario will be in play.
↵↵↵↵↵"As we begin our preparations for the 2011 season, unfortunately there is the potential of a league-wide work stoppage," Rooney said in his letter. "We remain confident that owners and the players' association will reach an agreement before the 2011 schedule will be impacted."
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While I understand why the Steelers and other NFL teams have taken this position, it's still a bit troubling, because it comes at a time when NFL fans are feeling unappreciated. Sure, the refund offer should alleviate some concerns about the substantial financial investment. But that chunk of change could be earning interest somewhere or being used for other costs while fans wait to see what may or may not happen with the negotiations.
↵Any season ticket holders out there have an opinion on the Steelers decision?