ATTENDANCES in the SSE Airtricity League Men’s First Division have increased by 135 per cent since the last full season with crowds prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Almost 180,000 people attended games in the Division across the season, compared to 75,000 in 2019, averaging 1,200 supporters per fixture, up from 560 in 2019.
The return of crowds have been notable at the 4,500 capacity Markets Field, particularly in the latter half of the past season as Tommy Barrett’s Treaty United remained in serious promotion play-off territory.
Figures also confirm an increase in crowds in the Women’s Premier Division, of which Treaty United are members.
Commenting on the rise in attendances, League of Ireland director Mark Scanlon said: “It has been brilliant to see the rise in crowds right across the League of Ireland”.
He added: “We must give immense credit to the clubs too who are going from strength to strength in engaging with their communities and bringing in bigger fanbases. We look forward to an even better 2023”.
Close on 500,000 watched in person Premier Division matches in 2022, which is up by well over 100,000 on three years earlier.
Treaty United season tickets – which cover both the men’s and women’s league fixtures – are currently on sale, offering exclusive priority access to tickets for away games and high demand games.
Treaty’s 2023 season begins with a visit from Bray Wanderers on Friday, February 17.
A few weeks later (March 10) there is an historic Munster Derby involving Treaty and newly formed Kerry FC at Tralee’s Mounthawk Park.
The league season runs from February through to October, with action for those involved in the latter stages of the FAI Cup lasting until the following month.
Marc Ludden has been appointed club captain to replace Jack Lynch who has emigrated to Australia.
