In 2016, the best way for sports teams and conference to reach fans is by making their media accessible on all platforms. Whether it’s short video clips about this week’s upcoming game, or a live broadcast of the game, fans are more likely to watch when they have multiple ways to view the programming. In a recent partnership with Campus Insiders, Conference USA is doing just that. The partnership is going to allow Campus Insiders to stream multiple C-USA football and basketball games throughout the season.
Campus insiders will now be given access to produce and stream a multitude of content from the league. Fans will be able to view interviews, on-demand video content, as well as feature stories and highlight packages throughout the year. All of the C-USA programming will be available throughout the Campus Insiders Network, which includes campusinsiders.com, mobile apps, connected TV apps like Roku, Apple TV, and Xbox, as well as on Twitter.
“Our partnership with Campus Insiders helps us give our fans something beyond the traditional viewing experience with live events streamed online and through its channels on various streaming media players,” said Judy MacLeod, Conference USA Commissioner. “Together, we feel we can provide that behind-the-scenes perspective in our live content and through original features.”
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The partnership will give fans the opportunity to have more access to Conference USA content than ever. This partnership comes after Campus Insiders recently teamed up with Twitter to create a deal that would allow Twitter to stream over 300 live games from the Mountain West Conference, Patriot League, and West Coast Conference.
According to Kelly Carney, Senior Associate Commissioner for Conference USA, the ease of use for users to get access to games and sports was the driving factor behind this partnership. “We want to make it really easy for fans to find our events whether it’s through TV or digital partnerships. Linear TV is changing and people want more access to watch content,” said Carney.
The partnership was formed after representatives from C-USA and Campus Insiders first met at the National Championship game. C-USA was in the process of renegotiating its multimedia deals and the collaboration seemed to work for both parties.
“We are proud to welcome Conference USA to our growing roster of conference partners” said Brooks Boyer, CEO of Silver Chalice, the parent company of Campus Insiders. “Conference USA shares our vision to reach its fans on the most relevant digital platforms with television quality programming and the ability to engage directly with our audience for a unique, interactive experience.”
Campus Insiders and Conference USA working together isn’t only making it easier for fans to view the games, it is also giving the C-USA schools an opportunity to build up the technology in their athletic departments on campus. “Partnerships like this are allowing schools to make progress in production capabilities which is helping students in the classroom,” said Jordan Foreman, Director of Multimedia for Conference USA. “Once schools have the equipment, they will help to build the content so that the school itself can provide to its fans.”
The deal will stream eight C-USA football games this season. The first game will take place on September 24th and feature Southern Miss vs. UTEP.
Other conference USA games and content can be seen on CUSA.TV, Conference USA’s personal streaming package which allows fans to watch every sport that is broadcasted by the schools for one price.