By RaptorTalk

We came across some interesting information regarding the drinking habits of Raptors fans.

After bad behavior from some Toronto FC fans who travelled to Columbus, an MLSE official made a few observations that compared the alcohol consumption of Raptors, TFC and Leafs fans.

According to the Toronto Star, "We have some fans who get a little fuelled up before they get here (BMO Field)," vice-president Tom Anselmi said. "But we haven't had an enormous amount of alcohol-related evictions, no more than at the ACC."

He couldn't say exactly how much beer is sold at games, but said "per-capita consumption is high. Higher than the Raptors (games) and on a par or higher than the Leafs."

According to the Star’s account of Anselmi’s comments, “The difference may be that Leafs fans don't do a lot of drinking before they arrive at the game. Toronto FC's firms gather at taverns near BMO Field, unofficial clubhouses of sorts, where they drink for several hours before weekend games. Then they march en masse to the field, singing and chanting.”

      

Leafs fans drink more

After 42 years of mediocrity it is no surprise that Maple Leafs fans drink more than Raptor fans. Leafs fans are the NHL equivalent of Cubs fans.

Growing up, I remember the string of Stanley Cups and the parades down Bay Street like it was yesterday. Now the team is so pathetic (and led by the two least likeable sports execs on the planet – Brian Burke and Ron Wilson) that I could not muster the energy to head to the ACC to watch this past Wednesday’s Leafs vs. Flyers game. Instead, I gave away a $350 lower bowl pair.

If I was still a big Leafs fan, I'd be drinking, too!


Raptors fans drink less

There have been complaints by some (including Chris Bosh) that Raptors fans should be louder. I wonder how much of this is due to the lower alcohol consumption at Raptors games?

As a former Buffalo Bills season ticket holder, I know that a lot of the noise at Ralph Wilson Stadium is fueled by alcohol – to the point where you don’t want to take your wife or kids to a Bills game.

The best Raptor crowds are on Friday night, where fans are in more of a party mood. In fact, the only time I’ll have a beer at a Raps game is on Friday night. It seems like a good night to sip on a brew or two!

Raptors fans are also younger and more ethnically diverse and this may play a role in lower beer sales at Raps games. Now, I am not advocating TFC style drunkedness at Raps games. Not at all.

On the other hand, when the men in red are winning and playing hard - Raptor crowds can literally blow the roof off the ACC. Hopefully, this dismal year will not be repeated and we can turn the ACC into the rockin’ place its been in the past.


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