# My Dad’s Unforgettable Eagles Ticket Experience
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Chapter 1: The Legacy of an Eagles Fan
My 96-year-old father is a devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan, proclaiming, “I can die happy now that we’ve won a Super Bowl!” He has been a dedicated season ticket holder since the days when Franklin Field was the Eagles’ home ground. His two seats in Section 136 are so in demand that there’s a waitlist exceeding 40,000 people just for the chance to purchase them. It can take years for a name to ascend this list, and current season ticket holders renew at an impressive rate of 99.7%. When a new buyer is finally notified of their opportunity to purchase season tickets, they must first invest thousands of dollars for a seat license.
Chapter 2: The Ticket Dilemma
With this background, let’s delve into an experience my Dad shared before the preseason football kicked off in mid-summer 2019. After pre-purchasing his two season tickets, he eagerly awaited their arrival in the mail. Weeks went by with no sign of the tickets, and the preseason was fast approaching. He decided to reach out via the landline.
The conversation went something like this:
Voice: “Good afternoon, Eagles ticket sales.”
Dad: “Hello. I’m calling because my tickets haven’t arrived yet.”
Voice: “We no longer send tickets by mail.”
Dad: “How do I get into the stadium?”
Voice: “You can simply scan the barcode on your smartphone at the entrance.”
Dad: “I’m 93! I have a flip phone! I want my tickets!”
Voice: “Of course! We can send you the tickets, but there’s a $75 shipping charge.”
Dad: (astonished) “Last year, it was only $10! I’m writing a letter to Jeffrey Lurie!” (the Eagles owner)
And indeed, he did write that letter. Eventually, they reduced the mailing fee to $25.
Chapter 3: The Value of a Physical Ticket
There’s a unique sentiment associated with holding that shiny, midnight green and white ticket in hand. You find yourself staring at it while riding the subway down Broad Street.
You flip it over repeatedly, tracing your finger along the straight edge, double-checking the entry gate. The anticipation builds. This rectangular piece of paper represents a tangible link to the rich history of the Eagles franchise.
Every game is a rollercoaster of emotions. Regardless of the outcome, that ticket stub gets carefully tucked away in your pocket. The game may be over, but the printed pass lives on as a cherished memory.
Key Message: Some things in life should remain constant, and the paper ticket is undoubtedly one of them!
Chapter 4: A Tradition Worth Preserving
In this digital age, while technology continues to evolve, the nostalgic essence of a paper ticket should be preserved. It’s more than just entry; it’s a connection to cherished memories and the thrill of the game.