London Rippers Attendance Woes Not a Secret

Controversy kicked off the London Rippers inaugural campaign, the likes we have never seen in Independent baseball. Their logo, which resembles “Jack the Ripper,” caused such a commotion it received press in ESPN and Sports Illustrated. 

Everyone was talking about this team from London Ontario with a logo that was so offensive to people, they were on the verge of facing severe and expensive legal battles. 

Sometimes we have to sit back and realize that’s it’s just a picture, nothing more, nothing less. Thankfully everyone came to their senses and Diamond Jack; the frustrated hockey player could grace the hats and uniforms of the players. 

Unfortunately, all the hoopla surrounding this team is nearly gone and it shows in the numbers. 

The lifespan of an Independent team varies, and it’s not unusual to see Indy teams disappear after one or two seasons. It’s also not unusual to see the reigning champion of a league suspend their operations (Edmonton Capitals, North American League 2011). 

These teams, which are competing with professional leagues and teams in surrounding cities, have multiple factors that can inhibit success and a non-supportive fan base is one of them. 

Sometimes, regardless of results, the fans just aren’t into it. And these difficulties, amongst others, is nothing new to London; London Werewolves 1999-2001, London Monarchs 2003. 

After 23 home games, the Rippers total attendance is 20,272, an average of 881 per game. Compare that to the Gateway Grizzlies; 84,832 or 3,535 per game, and you see a huge gap. Considering that they play in the prestigious Labatt Park which was voted as Canada’s Favourite Ballpark, it really doesn’t make much sense. The ten games below .500 probably contribute to the matter. But, on the positive side, the fans are seeing some great players on the field. 

At the Frontier League all-star game, Rippers first baseman Joash Brodin, who is second in the league with a .367 batting average, won the MVP. 

The talent and passion is obviously there, and for a first-year squad you really couldn’t ask for more, but the attendance issue is just something that can’t be pushed under the rug. If attendance doesn’t increase, London could be without a team once again.

Devon is the founder and executive director of The GM's Perspective. He is a former professional baseball player with the River City Rascals and Gateway Grizzlies. Currently, Devon is a manager at a financial institution in Northern Ontario, Canada, and can be reached at [e-mail]. You can follow The GM's Perspective on Twitter and Facebook. His full bio can be seen here.