Comment Re:Just say no! (Score 1) 319
There ARE benefits to a city that arise from having a pro sports team, both financial and, for lack of a better word, psychological.
The revenue and jobs created are real, and measurable, though city gov't tends to exaggerate the numbers. Often the new ball park can become the centerpiece for an urban renewal project. Check Cleveland, Baltimore, and San Francisco for examples. Owners, teams, players, and the stadium itself all spend money, especially on local contracts for services. The stadiums are usually used for other events as well, and new stadiums can function as a conference center as well.
The less definable advantage, and you can dispute this if you want but I've seen it and believe it, is the way the team can unify the residents and help provide a common ground, identity, and source of pride for the community. This was even more true in the past but still applies today. The same instinct in us that nationalism and patriotism appeals to is present in sports fandom. The bread and circus aspect is there too, but everyone needs diversion.
For a good (video) example of what I'm talking about, remember or watch Major League and see the way the town reacts to the team's winning.
The revenue and jobs created are real, and measurable, though city gov't tends to exaggerate the numbers. Often the new ball park can become the centerpiece for an urban renewal project. Check Cleveland, Baltimore, and San Francisco for examples. Owners, teams, players, and the stadium itself all spend money, especially on local contracts for services. The stadiums are usually used for other events as well, and new stadiums can function as a conference center as well.
The less definable advantage, and you can dispute this if you want but I've seen it and believe it, is the way the team can unify the residents and help provide a common ground, identity, and source of pride for the community. This was even more true in the past but still applies today. The same instinct in us that nationalism and patriotism appeals to is present in sports fandom. The bread and circus aspect is there too, but everyone needs diversion.
For a good (video) example of what I'm talking about, remember or watch Major League and see the way the town reacts to the team's winning.
