The first high school football state championships held at Canvas Stadium drew a combined attendance of approximately 12,500, exceeding the average attendance for games at Empower Field, according to event sponsor Canvas Credit Union.

The higher attendance at Canvas Stadium demonstrates that fans are willing to travel for championship football, even if it means going outside of the usual venue.

• The combined attendance for the Class 5A and 4A title games at Canvas Stadium was approximately 12,500.
• This figure exceeds last year's attendance in Denver by 1,500.
• Over the 17 years the games were held at Empower Field, the average attendance for big-school title games was about 10,900.

Moving the games to Fort Collins was a financially motivated decision by CHSAA, as it expected to increase revenue by playing at Canvas Stadium. The smaller capacity of the stadium created a more packed and louder atmosphere, enhancing the championship experience for players and fans.

• This was the first year that the high school football state championships were held at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins.
• The decision to move the games was met with initial surprise, as they had been held at Mile High for many years.
• The move created a more neutral site for teams, as opposed to Mile High, which was considered home territory for Dave Logan and Cherry Creek.

The higher attendance and positive player and fan experiences at Canvas Stadium highlight the success of holding the high school football state championships in Fort Collins, showcasing the willingness of fans to travel for championship games.