An Update From AD Jon Gilbert

Pirate Nation:

"Will we have all our fans back in Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium this year?"

This is the question I have been asked the most lately by our football student-athletes. It's been nice to see their expression when I inform them our plan is to open the 2021 football season in full force. We are going to ensure we provide a safe environment for our fans and follow all the university, local and state protocols, but the latest news is trending toward a more normal football season.

That's great news for all parties. We have a group of young men and a dedicated coaching staff who are looking forward to showing you their progress as a football program. Coach Houston was really encouraged by our team's progress this spring, so we are optimistic about the 2021 season.

On behalf of our entire athletics department, we appreciate your patience over the past 14 months as we have navigated through the pandemic. We have endured significant challenges and you have continued to stay with us. I understand the frustration of limiting attendance at venues and the last-minute changes to our schedules due to COVID-19.

But it's time to get back together.

Our staff is excited to see you back in Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. It's been way too long since we have heard a stadium full of Purple and Gold chants or the Pirate faithful kindly greeting our opponents. It's time to start celebrating Pirate victories together again.

Pirate Nation is about the people, the lifelong friendships formed rooting on the Pirates, the smell of ribs on the grill as part of the greatest tailgate scene in the country, a sense of community and a passion for our traditions.

To get the atmosphere we all want, please consider purchasing football season tickets.

Our priority deadline for football season tickets is May 3 and we need a significant jump in sales over the next couple months. Season tickets are currently nearing 9,000 and we are hopeful for a steady increase in that number. We have ensured our pricing is affordable with season tickets as low as $99, which is well below the American Athletic Conference average.

Give us an opportunity. We have several exciting items we are adding to the gameday experience to give more access, comfort, and various options for our fans.

If you are a local business, consider showing your support by buying a pair of tickets. Nothing would make a Pirate fan happier than an early holiday present of football season tickets.

Joining the Pirate Club at any level, buying football season tickets and attending our events are vital to the future of our department.

Please call our ticket office at 252-737-4500 and ask about our payment plan because we need you in Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium in the fall. You can also purchase tickets at ECUPirates.com.

You can visit ECUPirateClub.com for more information or call (252) 737-4540.

Let's continue to unite as Pirates and get prepared for Sept. 11 when the South Carolina Gamecocks visit Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium.

As I have written numerous times, it's a privilege to be a part of Pirate Nation. I can't wait to see you this fall.

Go Pirates!

Jon

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