Saturday, June 30, 2018

As MGM Springfield’s opening nears, Thunderbirds look to see attendance hike

By Zachary Baru

With the opening of MGM Springfield less than two months away, many Springfield businesses are eagerly awaiting the positive effects from the $950 million resort casino.  The Springfield Thunderbirds are one of these such businesses, and are in prime position to have yet another successful season from the expected attendance increase.

As the Thurnderds’ home sits across the street from the casino’s main entrance, any home game will most likely see a fair amount of casino guests, either making their way to or from the casino.

MGM Springfield has been a good supporter of the Thunderbirds ever since the announcement of their new Springfield resort, and has always said the casino will help boost local entertainment at the MassMutual Center, Symphony Hall and City Stage.

This appears to be nothing short of accurate, as the Thunderbirds will be a very good addition to a casino that already seems to offer many entertainment options.  One example of this will be the Thunderbirds hosting the 2019 American Hockey League All-Star game, which comes at a perfect time for Springfield, within 6 months of the casino’s grand opening.

Sports and entertainment has always meshed well with casinos, and Springfield looks to be no different.  Both parties here seem to be in a key position to benefit from each other, helping to enhance the city’s entertainment offering.

Zach Baru can be followed on Twitter @zbaru and reached at zachbaru@gmail.com.