In Episode 276 of The Fin Factor, Paul and Aaron are joined by Sharks CMO Doug Bentz at SAP Center to discuss the “Teal Reimagination,” a multi-year project aimed at redefining the fan experience at the arena.
The Concept of “Reimagination”
Doug clarifies that the project is a “reimagination” rather than just a “renovation”. While a renovation focus on the structural “four walls,” this project is about rethinking the entire experience within the arena. The goal is to make the building more functional, create more social spaces, and better meet the needs of today’s fans.
Construction Timeline and Phases
The project is a multi-year endeavor designed to minimize disturbances to fans and the arena’s schedule.
- Starting from the Ground Up: Construction begins at the “event level” (ground floor) and will move up level by level.
- The Legends Level: A new “Legends Level” is being built on the event level, creating new public social space.
- Locker Room Update: The team’s locker room is also being redone, which management believes will have a positive ripple effect on the team’s performance.
- Summer Closures: Major construction projects that require closing the arena will be limited to one summer to keep disturbances low.
Solving Concourse Congestion
One of the primary fan complaints is concourse crowding during intermissions. Doug explains several strategies to improve “flow”:
- Increased Entrances: Adding more ways to get in and out of the building to spread out the crowd.
- Alternative Social Spaces: Levels like the new Legends Level and potential new entry points to the upper bowl will draw people off the main concourse.
- Food & Beverage (F&B) Redesign: Implementing “walkthrough” options for concessions rather than traditional lines.
Expanding Outside the Tank
The project also focuses on creating indoor-outdoor social spaces to take advantage of San Jose’s weather.
- The Outdoor Experience: Plans include larger outdoor landings and spaces where fans can meet up early for food and drinks.
- The “Shark’s Way”: The Sharks are working with the city to extend the team’s influence into downtown, including art projects like the 100 sharks recently painted on sidewalks leading to San Pedro Square.
New Sharks Pro Shop
Coming as soon as this summer, the Sharks Pro Shop will undergo a massive upgrade:
- Triple the Size: The new store will be three times larger than the current one.
- Variety and Experience: The increased space will allow for more merchandise variety and a more engaging shopping experience.
