**Texas to Increase Football Season Ticket Prices by $13 per Game to Meet Rising Costs**
The University of Texas is set to raise its football season ticket prices by $13 per game next season, as part of an effort to meet rising costs and fund new initiatives. The decision was announced by Athletic Director Chris Del Conte during his annual campus town hall, where he shared the program’s expected finances following the final approval of a landmark $2.8 billion lawsuit settlement.
What’s Driving the Price Increase?
The increased scholarships will cost about $9.2 million, and the school plans to pay $20.5 million annually to its athletes. Del Conte explained that the program will also have nearly $30 million in new costs and approximately 200 new scholarships across all sports, which the ticket price increase will help cover.
Athletic Department’s Financial Situation
Texas reported $332 million in operating revenue and $325 million operating expenses in the 2024 fiscal year, making it the first top-division public school to surpass the $300 million mark in both categories, according to USA Today. This strong financial performance will enable the university to invest in its athletic programs and provide more opportunities for its athletes.
Why is the Athletic Department Investing in Scholarships?
Del Conte emphasized that the program’s goal is to “maintain Texas as the best athletic department in the country.” To achieve this, the department is investing in scholarships to attract top talent and provide financial support to its athletes. The increased scholarships will also help to enhance the overall competitiveness of the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the athletic department increasing season ticket prices?
A: The department is increasing season ticket prices by $13 per game to help cover new costs and fund initiatives such as increased scholarships.
Q: What is the total cost of the new scholarships?
A: The increased scholarships will cost approximately $9.2 million.
Q: How much will the school pay its athletes annually?
A: The school plans to pay $20.5 million annually to its athletes.
Q: What is the university’s goal with this investment in scholarships?
A: The goal is to maintain Texas as the best athletic department in the country by attracting top talent and providing financial support to its athletes.
In conclusion, the University of Texas’s decision to increase season ticket prices by $13 per game is a strategic move to invest in its athletic programs and provide more opportunities for its athletes. The increased scholarships will help to enhance the program’s competitiveness and maintain its position as one of the best in the country.
