OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — With the Huskers canceling fall sports for the time being, it has added another challenge to an already rough year for some local businesses.
"I sometimes feel like I'm back at square one after 25 years," said Scott Strunc, owner of Husker Hounds.
Strunc says 2020 has presented many challenges for his business. It started in April when the University of Nebraska canceled spring sports due to the coronavirus.
Strunc closed his three stores for three months, taking the time to do some deep cleaning. Now that the doors are back open, some fans are still coming in, but Strunc says sales are down 80%.
"Nebraska football is what wags the dog around here so, I mean that's what pays the bills down in Nebraska in most athletic departments," said Stunc. "This is a huge hit not just for stores like Husker Hounds, but for sports bars and for the athletic department. I mean, that's how everybody pays their bills."
Though fans are not lining up like they usually would be this time of year, the store is still seeing some sales online.
"Huskers fans are so loyal," Stunc said. "We've had a lot of online shopping that's been going on. I mean our online sales have soared."
Strunc said after 25 years of being in business, he's been able to save some money for a rainy day like this, but is still hoping to see the Huskers take the field soon.
He encourages other fans to remain optimistic
"Take a chill pill and relax and enjoy your family," Stunc said. "Come and see us once in a while, but things will turn around, and we'll get back all together and cheering on the huskers again before you know it."
