At first I thought it was an April Fool’s joke, but it’s December. Then I told myself that a hacker had taken control of the Canadian’s website. But no, it’s true, CH now charges $195 to watch Youppi during a game.
It was the Danslescoulisses website that discovered the Canadian’s unthinkable marketing idea and wrote a text about it on Saturday morning.
I almost choked when I went to the Canadiens’ website and saw that it wasn’t a joke. In fact, the CH suggests the following. You must purchase a pair of tickets that are not available for resale and you will be offered the option.
It’s called “Youppi Fur Madness.” The name is quite well chosen. This is indeed madness. This means: “Book a personalized tour of the incomparable Youppi!” to your place! The meeting includes a Youppi! gift bag! worth more than $75.
Screenshot of the Canadian NHL website
All you have to do is pay $195 + tax and that’s it. You can even choose the period in which you would like your visit.
This doesn’t include two hot dogs, two apple juices, or slices of pizza or popcorn.
The opposite of the role of the mascot
I recently spoke with Rodger Brulotte. He was one of those who created Youppi during his time with the Expos. He explained to me that he wanted the mascot to be one that the kids would want to hug.
Sorry, Rodger, but even if the kids want to hug them, let’s hope Mom or Dad unfolds two $100 bills.
Otherwise, you’ll have to get lucky and try to meet Youppi during the game as he might have too many $200 dates.
It is the absolute opposite of a mascot. In my opinion a mascot is just the thing, it is a tool to bring the team closer to the fans, especially the young fans.
There we make it inaccessible and distance it from those who already have a lot of money to go to a game but not enough to have more.
Aren’t we asking for enough already?
It’s like I refuse to believe any of this is true, it’s so sad and crazy. A large and prestigious organization like the Canadian, worth around $2.5 billion, decides to monetize the hugs of its mascot to make even more money.
Aren’t we asking enough of the fans already?
The ghosts of the banners hanging from the ceiling must be discouraged.