by DAVE MARTINEZ

New York City FC aren’t the only local pro soccer club enjoying record season ticket interest.

As reported by EoS last year, the New York Red Bulls set a franchise record in season ticket renewals, bringing 7,500 of their loyal fans back to the fold by the second week of September.

This year has gone even better. According to reliable sources, the Red Bulls are 500-1,000 tickets above last year’s pace — and they are not done there. With some 8,000-8,500 renewals already accounted for, the Red Bulls are projecting to secure 10,000 renewals this month in the second phase of their drive.

That achievement may come as early as this week.

The impressive season ticket tally is further vindication for the Red Bull organization — particularly in light of the beating they took from their fanbase heading into the 2015 campaign. The haphazard firing of beloved coach and club folk hero Mike Petke sparked anger amongst Red Bull fans, making way for an ugly Town Hall scene this past January. That gave birth to the #RedBullOut movement — and even influenced a billboard campaign against the franchise.

Today, things are certainly different. With the Red Bulls in first place in the Eastern Conference and in the thick of the Supporters’ Shield race, the team and fans have reconciled — most vividly displayed in an amicable Town Hall setting conducted by the club earlier this month.

The second phase of the Red Bulls’ renewal drive goes through October 16th, with fans guaranteed same seating and/or priority relocation seating, along with a red member scarf and 1,000 bonus member points.