
In preparation for the impending NCAA revenue-sharing system, Indiana University announced a new premium seating option and seat donation model to football season ticket holders. The move follows the example set by several other Big Ten universities that have introduced a similar system for one or more of their sports.
This week began IU football’s season ticket renewal process. Following a banner season for the Hoosiers, which saw the team go 11-1 in the regular season and make an appearance in the college football playoffs, interest in season tickets is at an all-time high.
In a letter to season ticket holders, IU athletic director Scott Dolson referenced the impending $20.5 million cost to pay athletes and said, “This season’s success came against a backdrop of unprecedented change in college sports. NIL, the transfer portal and, beginning July 1, revenue sharing are the new reality for athletic departments across the country.
He continued, “As a department, we have been focused on turning these types of challenges into opportunities for success for our student-athletes and our programs. Our department’s successes relative to NIL and the transfer portal have been well documented and were undoubtedly a significant part of the success we enjoyed in football last fall.”
IU plans to offer a range of seat donation options, ranging from $0-$250 per ticket. This process would allow season ticket holders to pay an additional fee per ticket to select a specific seat. The Hoosiers will also introduce a new premium seating option at Memorial Stadium.
“Due to overwhelming demand for additional premium seating options, a new premium east side area will debut this fall. Look for details on the new East Side Club in the coming days,” said Dolson.
IU also made upgrades and changes to seating at Memorial Stadium in 2024, expanding the student section, adding a new ticket option for fans to access ‘B-Town Boulevard’ and moving the Marching Hundred seating section.