Meet the Tomahawks Staff: Chris Anderson

Jul 26, 2012

By Suzanne Grove
 

Johnstown Tomahawks Director of Ticket Operations Chris Anderson enters the Cambria County War Memorial Arena every day with enthusiasm, eager to talk with season ticket holders, hockey fans, and all members of the Johnstown community, who have been without a team to call their own for the past two years.

“In Johnstown there is a core group of very knowledgeable hockey fans, so it’s a privilege to speak with them on a daily basis about our team,” he said.

Anderson cares a lot about Johnstown; after all, it is the city that gave him his start in the sports industry. He interned with the Chiefs and, since their departure, has made it a personal goal to be part of an organization that would bring hockey back to the city. As Anderson views it, the Tomahawks have made it possible for him to achieve that goal. He appreciates the opportunity every day.

His passion for this town and for hockey, which he plays recreationally and has watched from a small age, pushes him to create the best possible experience for all Tomahawks fans and to take care of all the people who purchase tickets, including Season Ticket Holders.

“Our Season Ticket Holders are a priority,” said Anderson. “I guarantee they will be treated with the utmost respect, and I will do my best to make sure they enjoy every second of their experience here, from the moment they walk in the door to the last seconds of the game.”

Tomahawks Season Ticket Holders receive numerous exclusive benefits that have people excited, especially due to the low prices. Fans can enjoy all 28 games of the team’s home schedule starting at only $168.

Compared to the single-game ticket prices, season tickets are reduced by as much as 20%. But, this is not the only savings: Season Ticket Holders also save 20% on everything in the team’s official merchandise store and 10% on all concessions, including alcohol. The Tomahawks provide Season Ticket Holders with early entrance on game days, private events, an exclusive gift, first priority for all playoff games, and the ability to purchase additional tickets at Season Ticket Holder rates. Another perk gives Season Ticket Holders the option to trade tickets to games they can’t attend for ones they can or to donate them to charity.

Anderson, who was born in Indiana but grew up in Western Pennsylvania, is a graduate of Clarion University with a degree in sports management. He has worked with the Cleveland Cavaliers as an account executive and as a sales assistant with the AHL’s Lake Erie Monsters. Anderson made his move to the NHL when he was hired by the Columbus Blue Jackets as a group events specialist.

When he speaks about one of his favorite hockey-related memories, it becomes clear just how much he loves the game:

“I had the chance to play on NHL ice in Columbus while working there,” he said. “I got to walk through the tunnel and take the ice just as NHL players do. I absolutely loved every minute of it.”

With a smile on his face, Anderson says that he wants to bring that same kind of happiness to people who watch the Tomahawks. He believes the fast-paced, gritty style of play synonymous with junior hockey will go a long way in making this a reality.

“With the kind of talent our coaching staff has seen, I believe this team will be amazing and a lot of fun to watch,” said Anderson. “I’m looking forward to having a lot of fun with our fans this season. My goal is to bring a fun and entertaining experience to them, and I believe it will be a very enjoyable time for everyone involved – the staff, players, and especially the fans.”