I love a good brainstorming session. Jed thinks the Spring Game needs more “dazzle” — a battle of the bands, a blowout BBQ, something — to become more attractive to fans. And he’s calling out for ideas:

We’ve answered part one. Now, onto fostering Virginia’s spring brand. I don’t have the perfect answer – not sure that exists – but it’s time to start exploring. I’m the farthest thing from a marketing savant, but what’s the harm in brainstorming.

A couple of thoughts:

First, if a school hopes to make its spring fling bigger than just football, then massive amounts of food – preferably tailgate grub – better be part of the deal. Maybe it’s a food festival, perhaps it’s a cook-off (bbq, chili, whatever), or maybe it’s a full bore, hot dogs and wings inhaling, Kobayashi-style eating contest. Whatever the case, back the food truck up to the stadium, and don’t pull out until the weekend’s over.

Next, music. If UVa, in conjunction with the city, can lure The Dave Matthews Band and The Rolling Stones to Scott, then I don’t think we’re being unreasonable to hope for one or two high profile, family friendly college town bands that would fit nicely in The Hook. These groups are everywhere (New Orleans: “Cowboy Mouth,” Gainesville: “Sister Hazel,” etc.), and I imagine they can be had for a modest sum.

Or if that’s untenable, then contact the soon-to-be-reincarnated “Gridiron Bash” and explore working into their rotation next spring. Before it was cancelled a few weeks ago (thanks NCAA … and next time gridiron gang, get clearance first), the Gridiron Bash encompassed 16 different schools, not all of them longstanding powers (Arizona State, Army, and Utah), and featured acts like Alan Jackson, Kid Rock, and Kelly Clarkson.

Okay, so those may not be award-winning ideas, but at least we’re hurling them against a wall to see if any stick. By all means Wahoo fans, join in.

Any ideas? I’m starting a thread on the Football and Edge Boards for discussion.

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 10th, 2008 at 8:28 am and is filed under The Good Ol Blog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.