The George Washington University athletic department has unveiled a virtual fan experience that aims to help basketball fans enjoy the upcoming season even if theyāre unable to attend in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"There are silver linings in every challenge and for those of us who strive daily for excellence, an opportunity presented itself to rethink what 'Game Day' means," said GW director of athletics Tanya Vogel in a press release. "Our Engagement Unit was charged with conceptualizing new ways to secure revenue and resources to support our student-athletes, while simultaneously engaging our strong fanbase to continue to provide joy and school spirit to our community. The Suite Life is the marriage of those efforts and I personally can hardly wait to enjoy it when I can't be with one of our teams."
Whatās being called āThe Suite Lifeā will include behind-the-scenes access to games, insider talk and social opportunities, as well as unique apparel and merchandise. According to GW, the Suite Life ādelivers to doorsteps everything needed to help offset the blues of not being in the building.ā
Athletics Operations associate Aaron Jones led the program, and GW sports enthusiasts can choose among several Suite Life packages with various perks, ranging from $125 to $250.
The cheapest package includes access to the Facebook group, entitled the āTricorner.ā The Facebook group will host virtual events, behind the scenes content with the basketball programs and in-game activities, the release states.
The $250 VIP package includes two GW swag boxes with five GW branded apparel items in each, as well as exclusive behind the scenes content.
A portion of the Suite Life proceeds are tax deductible and will go directly to support GW athletics programs.
