Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Now, I know the contract for "The Met" was just extended through 2016, but I wonder if they even looked at Trustmark...<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-spacere"> </span><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-spacere">
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-spacere">H</span>ere is what I think:</div><div>
</div><div>The Good: Trustmark is a more modern park. I personally think it can handle the crowds better than Regions. It is newer, cleaner, more open, and I think would be a great secondary venue for the SECT. Also, it would give Mississippi some much needed recognition and exposure throughout the SEC and the country.</div><div>
</div><div>The bad: It is not "centrally" located among SEC states. The location favors western division schools, but considering they just hosted the basketball tournament in Tampa, I don't think that is a legitimate argument. Secondly, there is not as much seating. There are 5,500 chairbacks, plus "standing room only" throughout the outfield, where as Regions has almost twice the seating room. Early on in the tournament, I don't think it would matter, but as teams like State, Ole Miss, LSU, Arkansas, and Alabama go deeper into the tournament, seats will be hard to come by.</div><div>
</div><div>I think this would be a great venture opportunity for Pearl and Trustmark Park to expand some and market the park as a possible host for the conference tournament. I really want to see Mississippi gain some exposure throughout the conference because we are the only state in the SEC that does not have large enough venues to host conference tournaments (with the exception of South Carolina. Kentucky has had Rupp that has hosted SEC and NCAA basketball regionals for years). What does the board think?</div>

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Now, I know the contract for "The Met" was just extended through 2016, but I wonder if they even looked at Trustmark...<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-spacere"> </span><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-spacere">
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-spacere">H</span>ere is what I think:</div><div>
</div><div>The Good: Trustmark is a more modern park. I personally think it can handle the crowds better than Regions. It is newer, cleaner, more open, and I think would be a great secondary venue for the SECT. Also, it would give Mississippi some much needed recognition and exposure throughout the SEC and the country.</div><div>
</div><div>The bad: It is not "centrally" located among SEC states. The location favors western division schools, but considering they just hosted the basketball tournament in Tampa, I don't think that is a legitimate argument. Secondly, there is not as much seating. There are 5,500 chairbacks, plus "standing room only" throughout the outfield, where as Regions has almost twice the seating room. Early on in the tournament, I don't think it would matter, but as teams like State, Ole Miss, LSU, Arkansas, and Alabama go deeper into the tournament, seats will be hard to come by.</div><div>
</div><div>I think this would be a great venture opportunity for Pearl and Trustmark Park to expand some and market the park as a possible host for the conference tournament. I really want to see Mississippi gain some exposure throughout the conference because we are the only state in the SEC that does not have large enough venues to host conference tournaments (with the exception of South Carolina. Kentucky has had Rupp that has hosted SEC and NCAA basketball regionals for years). What does the board think?</div>

 

[dawgatUSM]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Until they figure a way to get more seats in there it's not even an option. They'd be more likely to hold it at Dudy Noble than Trustmark

 

[Maroon Eagle]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

...that being said, I want to see how it handles the CUSA tournament (I also agree with Todd that it could be a possible regional host if the NCAA wanted to be cute as they have been known to be on occasion). I plan to attend the championship game Saturday night.

 

[sleepy dawg]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

for now. I think the CUSA tournament can show us a lot. If the CUSA works out well for the next couple of years, and TP sees the potential for something bigger, they may decide to increase seating and pursue and market for something like the SEC tournament... but for now, the answer is NO.

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

I think it has tremendous potential to have the ability to host a major conference tournament like the SECT. If they can effectively add even another 1,000 seats, I think we can see it compete with Regions. The largest crowd at TP was just over 8,000. Bump that capacity up to 10,000, I think it can compete. <div>
</div><div>I'm glad CUSA is there, but I just don't think the exposure is the same. It will be tough, but I think if they ever wanted to expand the park some, this would be a great lobbying point in favor of expanding it. The SEC brings national exposure that CUSA unfortunately cannot. Maybe it is just a pipe dream of mine, but seeing the recent success of our marketing department here, I think the city of Pearl and the state can work to build and improve venues to and market them to bring events like this to Mississippi. Conference tournaments have been hosted (or will be hosted) in every state but South Carolina (although Charlotte has hosted many NCAAT regionals for basketball) and Mississippi. I think it is about time we push to have a venue that can compete in hosting events like this.</div>

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

When the SEC was looking around.... They were told the facility needed to seat (as in seats) 10,000. Strike 1, 2 and 3 until the SEC reconsiders that requirement. The Braves would consider adding up to 2500 temporary seats if feasible which could get them to 8000 "seats".

As a Regional Host, I could only see that happening if one of the in State Universities were in a remodel mode and couldn't accomodate a crowd and co-bid with Spectrum (the management team of non-Braves events).

As for tonight, my son, who works there, said USM had sold around 4000 tickets. So there should be about 5000 there tonight which would be really good.

As I have said before, what needs to happen at Trustmark is a "Pre-Season" tournament in a round robin format of the Big 3 plus either the SWAC schools (to help them raise funds) or 3 teams from another state. Let's see if that is doable, and then you have something to sell the conference.

 

[Xenomorph]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

..there are powers at play stronger than sheer logic regarding where to host the thing. Trustmark ain't got a prayer.

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

like the SECT. If I were to guess, I would guess that it boiled down to money. I think maybe in the design phases, they didn't think a stadium that holds 10,000 would host events like the SECT on a regular basis (especially with Regions being in B-ham... I'm sure there is a little bias towards B-ham since it is centrally located) so it wasn't justified to build a park with that kind of seating. Just a guess, though.

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

That is a great point. Autozone is one of the nicest minor league parks in the country and holds close to 15,000. They have a huge step over TP...

 

[AssEndDawg]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

but if they are going to come that far West they will just move it to Memphis in Autozone Park. Bigger, nicer and you have the city of Memphis for people to play around in.

 

[Xenomorph]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

There are probably enough hotel rooms within WALKING distance to Autozone to supply the needs of the SECT. Not to mention the great places to eat.. also within walking distance. The entire setup for a tournament in Memphis is absolutely outstanding.

It is baffling why the SEC won't try it. The situation makes it really, really easy to conjure up conspiracy theories and believe palms are being greased.

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

There has to be some reason (*** kissing, bribing, or something) keeping it at Regions. The place is just aging... and the SEC can do much better. There are nice parks like Autozone, Zephyr Field in NOLA (N.O. Arena is hosting the basketball tournament next year), Coolray in Gwinnett, TP (maybe), hell, even Turner Field if you wanted to get spunky that outdo "The Met."

 

[BehrDawg]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Im sure that has LOTS to do with where the tournament is held

 

[Paper Dog]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Regions Park has six radio booths, two Tv booths and enough media room for about 120 ... Trustmark and AutoZone must start over with new press boxes to have any prayer in the future

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Autonzone: Great location with rooms and restaurants and entertainment. By far, better for the walking around fans than Hoover.

Zephyr Park is in a really bad location, but a decent ballpark. Amazed that it was apparently and afterthought since it was only minor league in a NFL/NBAcommunity.

I do like the large concourse that Trustmark has giving you plenty of room to roam and still watch the game.

Footnote: The petition to make Pearson Road to Hwy 49 in Pearl Resort Status is travelling around the neighborhoods. I just signed it yesterday. I was at Trustmark Park when a Hotel/Convention Center conglomerate was meeting to discuss a 14 story Hotel and Convention Center seating 2500. Once they heard "No alcohol" discussion was over. If this petition gets a vote and it is voted in, look for the area around Trustmark to explode with businesses and restaurants.

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Regions Park has six radio booths, two Tv booths and enough media room for about 120 ... Trustmark and AutoZone must start over with new press boxes to have any prayer in the future

Remodeling to accomodate Press is doable at Trustmark. The other issue I think, is that any event that Spectrum holds at Trustmark, the MBraves get asmall %, supply the event staff (Spectrum pays part-timers) and manage the gameday events. That means the Braves Full-time Staff (not paid by Spectrum)put in a lot of "extra" hours outside of MBraves events. I am sure they would be glad to host an SEC event, but I don't think they are crying aboutHoover getting the long term contract. For CUSA at the TP, my son went in at8:30 AM Monday, and got off at 5:00. Then he went in at 6:30 AM Tuesdayto help facilitate BP for all 8 teams and got home at 9:45 PM. Today he went in a 6:30 AM and will get off as soon as they put the Tarp down after USM game tonight( game just started)... and then return at 6:30 AM tomorrow and do it all over. Those are some seriously longhours.Putting on these events are some serious work.

 

[dawgtalk03]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Attendance for the second session of games at Trustmark which was Houston vs. East Carolina and Tulane vs. Southern Miss was 3,400 people. A solid crowd but I'm sure the folks at the TP were hoping for 4 to 5K.

 

[Todd4State]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

I thought that they did a pretty good job considering it was the first time that they had ever hosted a tournament. Biggest thing I had a problem with- no National Anthem before the USM /Tulane game.

As far as adding seats- it should be very feasible to add seats to Trustmark Park- especially since we're talking 2500 or so. There is plenty of room along both the first and third base sides to add in an extra section or two. As far as the press box, I guess that's probably doable as well.

The reason that they didn't have that many seats in the first place was because they were more concerned about getting a team to Mississippi period- stuff like the SEC Tournament was on the back burner. They were also concerned with a more modern look than anything. Getting the Governor's Cup was much more of a concern for them at the time than the SEC Tournament- I can guarantee you that.

The crowd was good- but it wasn't full. I wouldn't read too much into that though- we are talking about C-USA schools such as UAB and Tulane that don't exactly have huge fan bases much less travel well, and USM. Even when MSU played USM, the place wasn't completely sold out. But, if you have the SEC Tournament, I can guarantee you that it will be packed out when MSU, Ole Miss, LSU, etc. play.

What is important for Jackson/Pearl and the Trustmark Park people is to run a good tournament, be organized, and do a good job with that. That's why it's good that they're starting out with the C-USA tournament- it's a smaller tournament than the SEC Tournament, so it's going to be a lot easier to manage, and I'm afraid that if Jackson somehow landed the SEC Tournament and it was a mess, it would kill any chances of hosting again. But now, they get to iron kinks out and show what they can do.

 

[FlabLoser]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

And by racist, I mean chosen by the population in an open vote.

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

I thought that they did a pretty good job considering it was the first time that they had ever hosted a tournament. Biggest thing I had a problem with- no National Anthem before the USM /Tulane game.

As far as adding seats- it should be very feasible to add seats to Trustmark Park- especially since we're talking 2500 or so. There is plenty of room along both the first and third base sides to add in an extra section or two. As far as the press box, I guess that's probably doable as well.

The reason that they didn't have that many seats in the first place was because they were more concerned about getting a team to Mississippi period- stuff like the SEC Tournament was on the back burner. They were also concerned with a more modern look than anything. Getting the Governor's Cup was much more of a concern for them at the time than the SEC Tournament- I can guarantee you that.

The crowd was good- but it wasn't full. I wouldn't read too much into that though- we are talking about C-USA schools such as UAB and Tulane that don't exactly have huge fan bases much less travel well, and USM. Even when MSU played USM, the place wasn't completely sold out. But, if you have the SEC Tournament, I can guarantee you that it will be packed out when MSU, Ole Miss, LSU, etc. play.

What is important for Jackson/Pearl and the Trustmark Park people is to run a good tournament, be organized, and do a good job with that. That's why it's good that they're starting out with the C-USA tournament- it's a smaller tournament than the SEC Tournament, so it's going to be a lot easier to manage, and I'm afraid that if Jackson somehow landed the SEC Tournament and it was a mess, it would kill any chances of hosting again. But now, they get to iron kinks out and show what they can do.

To only play the national anthem before sessions instead of each individual game. Saves time between games and the tournaments recognize sessions as an event instead of the individual games.

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Regionals are bid on, not pre-planned. But in relation to the SEC tourney, I do not think they have such a rule in place. Obviously, the CUSA has no such rule in place.**

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Because the first 3 games ran long and they were already 2 hours behind, with a storm showing on radar at Vicksburg, they decided to get Brett to throw out a quick first pitch and get the game on.

They did pre-sell nearly 4000 tickets for last nights USM game, but weather also apparently deterred some fans.
So as you say, the crowd was decent under those circumstances.

Just watching the AU/UGA game, even as bad as they were, I wonder why there were not more fans. And Bama is playing the next game so we will see how "full" Hoover looks. Asthetically, I would give up 2000 attendance and have a full Trustmark at 8500 fans as opposed to 10,500 at Hoover with over 1/3 in bleachers. All other things equal, I will take the game day atmosphere at Trustmark over Regions-Hoover.

But Autozone beats them both...

 

[Todd4State]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

that doesn't hold much water with me. How long does it take to play the National Anthem? A couple of minutes or so?

They should honor Americans that have sacrificed so we can watch the baseball game before every game. No matter what.

 

[Maroon Eagle]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

_________
And I wasted my 5,000th postat Six Pack Speak on this. Par for the course.

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

nm

 

[StarkContrast]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

as a major sponser and regions wouldn allow the tourney to be at another banks stadium

 

[bruiser.sixpack]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

Regions Park...it is out-dated.....but since the conference signed a contract until 2016, Regions doesn't have to spend a dime on improvements.

 

[drt7891]

Discussion: Do you think the SEC would ever consider Trustmark a venue for the SECT?

And my previous answer was assuming they had sessions of two or more games (like the SECT). The answer I got was from the SEC Basketball Tournaments and wondering why they didn't play the national anthem before one of our games in Tampa. A friend who was in media relations told me they only play it before sessions and not the individual games.