While we often associate ice hockey with pulse-pounding action, technical skill and the occasional fight, a team in Switzerland has added a splash of luxury to their match day experience. HC Thurgau has caused a stir online, after offering rink-side seats in a hot tub.
During the special event, held during HC Thurgau’s play-off games against EHC Visp, fans were able to ditch the replica jerseys and scarfs for swimsuits and bathrobes and hop into a hot tub to watch the game. The jacuzzi was set up right by the action at the ice rink in Weinfelden, giving swimmers a perfect view of the game.
The stunt itself was designed to highlight one of Thurgau’s sponsors, Herzog Wellness. The latter said that they were overwhelmed by the interest in the hot tub, with hundreds signing up for a chance to watch a third in the pool.
"In a time when marketing measures are often lost in the overabundance of products, it's bold ideas that stick in people's minds," PR expert from Fruitjuicer Marco Diem told 20 Minuten. He added that the community’s response to the hot tub was overwhelmingly positive, with many hoping to see the idea in stadiums in other cities. The stunt has also gone viral, garnering 6,3 million views.
Sadly, the addition of well-soaked fans was not enough to spur HC Thurgau on, with the team losing all four play-off games against EHC Visp. Visp will now play either Basel or Olten in a series of games, before the winner gets to play either Ajoie or Lugano for a chance to get promoted into the top league.