The ratings boost so far is seen as proof that the Coyotes have expanded their reach and fandomGETTY IMAGES
The Coyotes through the first 42 games of the season have seen local TV ratings increase 23% "compared with the same point in the season last year," according to Brandon Brown of the PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL. The team saw its ratings increase 104% for the full month of December, "compared with the same month a year earlier." Coyotes officials said that the ratings boost so far this season is "proof the team has been able to expand its reach and fandom." Coyotes President & CEO Ahron Cohen said, "The ratings are a good litmus with where we are and how we resonate with the greater Phoenix community." The team currently is in second place in the Pacific Division with 24 wins. Having "more star power is the other factor likely driving more eyes to the Coyotes on TV." Cohen said that since acquiring LW Taylor Hall, the team's TV ratings have "increased 25%" (BIZJOURNALS.com, 1/6).
UPTICK AT BOX OFFICE, TOO: In Phoenix, Richard Morin notes the Coyotes have already sold out six games this season, equaling their total from all of last season, with their two most recent sellouts "both exceeding 17,000 patrons." Cohen: "We've positioned ourselves well with a very high season-ticket renewal rate, which is the highest Glendale has seen at 94% from last season. We sold ticket packages and had a huge uptick from previous years. That solid base was built up well before the season" (ARIZONA REPUBLIC, 1/7).
