The Oshawa Generals are facing a challenging season, not only on the ice but also in the stands, as team officials have taken the unusual step of addressing hygiene concerns among fans.
An Unpleasant Situation
With the Generals currently sitting at the bottom of the Ontario Hockey League standings, the team's struggles extend beyond gameplay. According to reports, an email was sent to season ticket holders asking them to practice better personal hygiene, including showering before attending home games.
This move comes after repeated complaints from fans about unpleasant odors emanating from the stands, creating an uncomfortable environment for attendees.
The Email's Content
The message, authored by Jason Hickman, the Generals' long-time director of ticket sales and service, began with a friendly tone but quickly addressed the issue at hand.
"Hello GensNation, we're thrilled to have you with us each and every game and appreciate the energy you bring to the arena," the email stated. "To help ensure a clean, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for everyone, we kindly ask for your cooperation with a few simple hygiene practices."
The email specifically mentioned:
- Using hand-sanitizing stations available throughout the arena.
- Covering coughs and sneezes appropriately.
- Being mindful of personal cleanliness when sharing space with fellow fans.
- Showering after activities like going to the gym that might produce body odor.
Behind the Decision
In an interview with durhamregion.com, Hickman explained the delicate nature of the situation. "I got a lot of people complaining about the person next to them smelling like cat pee, bad breath, this, that and everything else," he said.
Hickman noted that it was awkward for both fans and staff to address such issues directly. "They don't want to approach their neighbour, and it's awkward for me to approach their neighbour and say, 'Hey, you smell,'" he added.
The email was intended as a general, all-encompassing reminder, hoping that recipients would "look in the mirror and say, 'You know what? I can do better.'"
Potential Backlash
While the intention behind the email is well-meaning, aiming to improve the game-day experience for all, there is concern that Oshawa fans might feel insulted by the request. This adds another layer of difficulty to a season already marred by poor performance on the ice.
The Generals' efforts to tackle both their standings and stadium issues highlight the broader challenges faced by sports teams in maintaining fan satisfaction during tough times.
