With 2012 just around the corner, FCDallas.com recently sat down with FC Dallas President & CEO Doug Quinn to discuss the state of the club. In part two of this Q&A series, Quinn discusses the potential of a jersey sponsorship, how to increase attendance, and what fans can expect in 2012.
FCDallas.com: Was there anything you set out to accomplish in 2011, but didn’t?
Doug Quinn: Becoming MLS Cup Champions, advancing in CONCACAF Champions League, and of course the jersey sponsorship.
FCDallas.com: What is the status of the jersey sponsorship?
Quinn: This is a very important partner for the team, as it truly becomes the “Hero Brand” that is associated with our club. We are in constant discussions with companies to take this position but it must be the right company and partnership for both sides.
FCDallas.com: How does the lack of a jersey sponsorship affect the club’s ability to strengthen the team for next season?
Quinn: None. Having or not having a jersey sponsorship has not dictated a single decision on the competitive side of our business. At the same time, bringing the right sponsor for our jersey would allow us to deliver more to our fans off the field.
FCDallas.com: What are your plans to increase attendance in 2012?
Quinn: We have a team that is incredibly entertaining to watch. We’ve worked hard, and continue to work hard, to deliver a great game day fan experience. We have a program in place where the savvy season ticket holder can go all the way through the 2015 season without ever having the price of their seats increased; and we have the largest ticket sales organization with some of the best executives in the business that are working 24/7 to ensure that we build our season ticket base, provide unique ticket packages and reach out to our community to invite them to come and see what a great authentic soccer experience and entertainment value FC Dallas provides.
FCDallas.com: Have you considered playing any games at the Cotton Bowl?
Quinn: When it comes to our MLS regular season games or official international competitions like CONCACAF, the answer is no; our stadium is our home field. We have one of the best soccer specific stadium complexes in North America. All of our games will be at FC Dallas Stadium. Our complex is the reason we will be successful in developing new players, which is the bread and butter of every successful team in the world. Home Grown talent is the key to long term, consistent success.
Now, there is always a place for soccer in the DFW Metroplex, be it Cowboys Stadium, the Cotton Bowl or FC Dallas Stadium. The size and scope of these events will dictate which is the best venue for each event. We are constantly working with Soccer United Marketing to bring the best events to the Metroplex. When these events arise we manage the soccer operations of many of these events, including the Gold Cup and FC Barcelona vs. Club America games played here last summer.
FCDallas.com: What can the FC Dallas fan expect in 2012?
Quinn: Another season of thrilling soccer, working hard every game for a return to MLS Cup, and a fantastic experience every time they set foot in our stadium. And a number of changes in the stadium experience that we will soon be announcing.
