The Arizona Rattlers are giving away free tickets for their April 16 home opener. How many? To quote my father-in-law when he asked me how many dead bodies were in the local cemetery, “All of ‘em.”
Yes, the Rattlers are making all 17,000-plus seats available at no charge for their game against the Chicago Rush. Season-ticket holders will get a credit toward their accounts, and they’ll get dibs on additional free tickets.
“The Rattlers and our sponsors understand that times are tough for just about everyone,” team president (and former NFL quarterback) Danny White said. “We wanted to do something special for the people of Arizona without asking for anything in return. The Arizona Rattlers care about the community and are doing this as a way to do more than simply give it lip service.”
That sounds good, but it’s still a publicity stunt. And while it’s not exactly the kind of business practice that will keep the reincarnation of the Arena Football League from suffering the same Bankruptcy Court fate as its predecessor, it’s a significant gesture that could help kick-start interest in the reconstituted version of the indoor war on the floor.
Meanwhile, a box of popcorn will cost $50. And hot dogs will be available for $40 each.
We’re kidding about the last part. We think.