Sporting events have been competing with technology to keep the attention of fans. But the Tampa Bay Lightning think they have overcome this challenge by partnering with software company, Enthrall Sports.
The Seattle-based company develops technology and tools in order to transform the experience during live sporting events. By partnering with the Lightning, Enthrall Sports is focused on reinventing the fan experience for the Amalie Arena in Tampa.
“When content is pushed to the audience, it excludes fans from participating in the experience,” explains CEO of Enthrall Sports, Alan McGinnis. “Game-day content is improving, but is behind the curve in this time of social media, user-generated content and audience engagement. Fans are eager to engage and participate, and they expect to be able to do so.”
Enthrall Sports has set up a mobile app called Fan Capture, or FanCap for short. Fans are able to select songs for the night’s soundtrack, as well as creating short videos to be played throughout the arena. The videos are six-seconds long and are sent to the game-ops control room. From there, the control room team selects FanCap videos to be played.
There is also a feature called LiveCap. This enables fans to become the camera man and capture live video feed during the game. Fans will be able to interact more with live, real-time voting and polls. It even measures fan reactions or emotional responses through facial recognition and in-arena video cameras.
With more game-day experiences, fans will be provided with a memorable experience. By collecting quick-time fan feedback, the Tampa Bay Lightning can discover what makes a fan more loyal to their brand. Enthrall Sports is even looking to expand to different leagues, venues and app providers to make sure every fan can be engaged throughout the entire game.
“We know we have one of the most passionate fan bases in the NHL,” Steve Griggs, Lightning CEO said. “This technology enables us to tap into that passion and creativity on a nightly basis while enabling our fans to share their love for the team in a smart, fun and engaging way.”
