Over 8,600 season tickets have been sold in just three weeks. Last season's total fell just short of 11,000.
Bates told Leeds United's official website: "I really can't believe it. It's just over three weeks since we started posting the tickets out and the response has been unbelievable.
"We have processed 8,600. Memberships are pouring in as well and it's just phenomenal.
"Our season tickets last year were 10,700 and we've got 8,600 already. It just shows how much the fans are behind the club and what we are trying to do.
"It's appreciated and everyone at the club is truly grateful. I've certainly never experienced anything like this in 40 years in football. It's absolutely tremendous."