Affordable, accessible and packed with energy from start to finish, a Caps home clash sets the gold standard for family-friendly live sport. Photo: Rex Bergas.
Our beloved UC Capitals sure know how to put on a great show.
A Caps WNBL home game at AIS Arena boasts one of the most lively atmospheres in town. From hanging out in the Fan Zone and seeing the players run through cold sparks onto the court to tunes provided by DJ Dan via a custom Caps BoomBox2U, it’s an all-out spectacle well before the opening tip-off.
That courtside buzz is already hard to beat, but Canberra’s most successful sports team refuses to rest on its laurels. The Caps are keen to up the ante even further this season with new activations at all home games.
First up is the expanded Fan Zone, which gives supporters even more reasons to arrive early. Music, selfie stations, giveaways, free face painting and shooting games are all on the cards before tip-off.
Here you’ll also find the Caps Cloud, an exclusive novelty food item available only at UC Capitals home games. You’re in for a packed five-litre bucket of popcorn with a giant blue swirl of fairy floss on top — best bought hungry.
Eden Dance Academy recently made its debut as the Caps’ fan engagement crew, keeping the crowd pumped with pre-game and half-time performances and audience interactions.
There’s also a new Caps game-day app to explore. Here you can vote for your favourite music, test your knowledge with trivia questions, put a hand up for game-day activations and pitch your MVP selection.
“We’ve also introduced official away-game watch parties thanks to our new partner, Capital Brewing Co,” executive GM Christy Collier-Hill says.
“You’ll be able to catch all the action on the big screens at their Fyshwick taproom. It’s a great opportunity for us and a real step forward for women’s sport, which isn’t shown in pubs and clubs often enough.”
Ever heard of stadium neighbourhoods? They’re an enduring tradition at sporting events in the US, but not so much in Australia. The Caps are looking to change that with two new neighbourhoods behind the ring: the Loud House and the Steal Section.
The Loud House is tasked with making as much noise as possible to cheer the Caps on, while the Steal Section enjoys the cheapest seats in the house — starting at just $10 for kids’ tickets.
Finally, team mascot Cappie is set for her first line of exclusive merchandise.
“Cappie is very excited to build her brand,” Christy says. ”We’ve designed an adorable plush toy and T-shirt for young fans and a warm, comfortable hoodie for adults.
“You’ll be able to grab them at the merch store on game days, along with heaps of other items, including new Caps gibbits for the kids.”
UC Capitals games are uniquely family-friendly, with players sticking around after every game to sign autographs and take photos.
“These women are incredibly talented and deeply connected to their community,” Christy says. ”They’re wonderful role models for the next generation of sports stars and die-hard fans.
“It’s about more than just the game these days. We’re creating an event experience that showcases world-class athletes at the top of their game while providing a fun, playful day out for the whole family.
“Our next home game is against the Townsville Fire. Come and check out all the new activations at AIS Arena — we can’t wait to see you there!”
The UC Capitals face off against the Townsville Fire at AIS Arena on 15 November. Tip-off is at 3 pm. Tickets are available via Ticketek.
