SLU Men's Soccer Leads the Nation in Attendance

Jack Jewsbury

St. Louis - Saint Louis University's men's soccer program strengthened its position as one of the nation's top collegiate soccer attractions as the Billikens led all NCAA Division I programs in average attendance during the 2002 season. The Billikens' averaged 2,870 fans for 13 home dates at Robert R. Hermann Stadium on the University campus and have led the nation in average attendance two of the last three seasons.

"Consistently being ranked among the nation's top programs in attendance is a tribute to our loyal fan base along with our marketing and event management staff," said Billikens head coach Dan Donigan. "We believe that our team is entertaining and Hermann Stadium is an enjoyable environment for our fans. Plus, there's a direct correlation between our success on the field and the tremendous fan support that we enjoy."

The Billiken men also led in total attendance with 37,306 fans. The Billikens were among the nation's top 10 in average attendance throughout the 1990s, but this is only the second time that they have led the country. The Billikens also led the nation during the first year at the newly renovated Hermann Stadium by averaging 2,784 fans per game during the 1999 season.

The Billikens' women's team ranked 25th nationally in average attendance at 686 fans per game. Saint Louis has a challenge to catch Texas, the women's leader, with an average of 1,924 fans per game.

NCAA Div. I Men's Average Attendance School Total Avg.
1) Saint Louis 37,306 2,870
2) Fresno State 17,395 2,485
4) Indiana 25,630 2,330
5) Virginia 25,563 2,130
6) SMU 17,020 2,128
7) Connecticut 29,105 2,079
8) Clemson 26,319 1,755
9) Washington 14,134 1,413
10) Stanford 16,015 1,335