Booster prices going up in '08

<p>Winning has been nice. Now, Florida football season ticket holders are going to start feeling the high cost of running a championship athletic program.</p><p>Starting in 2008, the booster contribution for each seat in The Swamp is going to rise significantly - and, in most cases, double by the 2010 season.</p><p>The increases were revealed earlier this week in a letter to boosters from athletic director Jeremy Foley and John James, the executive director/secretary of Gator Booster, Inc.</p><p>Part of the letter, dated July 2, reads: "The University Athletic Association and Gator Boosters, Inc. recently reviewed the program's financial obligations, current revenue and increasing operating expenses, including the addition of the seventh home football game. We also surveyed other peer institutions' per seat contributions and determined that the majority of our seating areas within Ben Hill Griffin Stadium are considerably below the market price. This review resulted in a proposal that was approved by the Gator Booster Board of Directors on April 14, 2007 to increase the per seat requirements within club levels and all of the luxury areas which are part of the Gator Booster system, beginning with the 2008 Gator Football season."</p><p>This does not signal a rise in ticket prices, but an increase in the donation to secure (or hold onto) season tickets.</p><p>For example, the per seat donation for the Touchdown Terrace will rise from $1,200 to $1,800 in 2008, then vault to $2,400 in 2010. Five bleacher sections that currently do not require a contribution per seat will have one of $75 starting in 2008 and increasing to $150 in 2010.</p><p>The increases are across the board, from the bleacher seats to the Gator Booster Club levels.</p><p>The information sent to boosters included a packet explaining how the contributions and club levels will increase. UF also sent out a frequently asked questions page. Boosters with any questions are urged to call Gator Boosters at (352) 375-4683, ext. 5000.</p><p>Robbie Andreu can be reached at 352-374-5022 or andreur@gvillesun.com.</p>