Revamping Ducks’ Broadcasts: A Move to Enhance Accessibility and Engagement
In a bold strategic shift, the Anaheim Ducks are transforming how their fans tune into games. Moving from their long-standing relationship with Diamond Sports Group, the team is adopting a hybrid approach that combines direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional local broadcasts. This move aims to enhance accessibility for fans throughout the Ducks' TV market, covering a wide regional territory.
Starting next season, Ducks' fans can look forward to 65 games being broadcast via an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles. The broadcasts will be available on Channel 13, ensuring that fans in Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii, can catch the action live.
In an effort to broaden reach and make game days more accessible, all Ducks games will also be streamed regionally on the Victory+ streaming service. Remarkably, this will be offered at no cost to viewers through a free, ad-supported model. The Victory+ streaming platform will be downloadable on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September, making it easier than ever for fans to tune in from their preferred devices.
A New Partnership and Enhanced Accessibility
The Ducks’ previous broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, is currently navigating through bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. With their contract with Diamond expiring at the end of the 2023-24 season, the Ducks have taken a decisive step to partner with A Parent Media for the new broadcasting arrangement. According to Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background,” underscoring the team's capability in managing this transition smoothly.
Reiterating the commitment to fans, Ducks president Aaron Teats expressed enthusiasm about the new direction. “We are so pleased to announce that fans in our entire television market, via stream or traditional television (cable or over-the-air) will see locally broadcast games free of charge,” he stated. Teats emphasized the organization's priority, noting, “It is a significant organizational priority to connect Ducks fans with our entire market and for every fan in our region to have the opportunity to watch Ducks games without cost across multiple, accessible platforms.”
Keeping the Community Connected
Maintaining the community feel and familiarity, Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team, ensuring continuity and a familiar voice for the fans. This stability in the commentary team will likely be appreciated by long-time listeners.
The Ducks are not alone in reevaluating their broadcast strategies. The Florida Panthers have moved their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars are also planning to stream their games regionally on Victory+. Despite the Ducks’ move, Diamond Sports Group isn't out of the sports broadcasting game entirely. They have secured agreements to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and continue their partnerships with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Broadening Horizons
The Ducks' decision reflects a broader industry trend towards digital platforms, aiming to cater to a growing demand for flexible viewing options. This approach not only keeps up with technological advancements but also addresses the shifting preferences of modern sports fans who increasingly favor on-demand and mobile viewing experiences. By offering games on Victory+, the Ducks are ensuring that fans never miss a moment of the action, regardless of their preferred viewing method.
Moreover, the ad-supported model on the Victory+ streaming service allows the Ducks to provide this expanded access without placing a financial burden on their fans. This thoughtful strategy not only broadens the fan base but also engages a wider audience by removing financial barriers, thus fostering a more inclusive fan environment.
Looking Forward
As the Anaheim Ducks gear up for the next season, fans across their expansive regional territory can anticipate a seamless and enhanced viewing experience. This new broadcasting arrangement is more than just a change in how games are viewed; it represents a significant organizational commitment to improving fan engagement and accessibility. With familiar voices in the booth and games available free of charge on multiple platforms, Ducks fans are in for a season of accessible, exciting hockey action.