Ducks Embrace New Broadcasting Strategy to Enhance Fan Accessibility
In a bold move to broaden their fanbase and increase accessibility, the Anaheim Ducks have announced a significant shift in their local game broadcasts. Starting next season, the Ducks will transition to a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and local broadcasts through over-the-air channels, marking a new era in how fans can engage with their favorite team.
The strategy comes as the Ducks’ contract with their former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, concluded at the end of the 2023-24 season. With Diamond Sports Group currently navigating bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, the Ducks saw an opportunity to rethink their approach to broadcasting.
“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,” said Ducks president Aaron Teats. “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.”
One of the cornerstones of this new broadcasting approach is Victory+, a streaming service that will offer ad-supported regional feeds of all Ducks games at no cost to viewers. This platform will be available for download on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September, a move designed to cater to the growing number of fans who prefer streaming their content.
In addition to streaming, 65 of the Ducks’ games will be available on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. This ensures that fans who prefer traditional television will still have access to the games.
The Ducks' regional territory is extensive, covering Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii, making this move significant for a large and diverse fanbase.
The Ducks have partnered with A Parent Media for this new broadcasting arrangement, leveraging the expertise of a company deeply rooted in content coordination. “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background,” noted Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media.
Fans can also look forward to the continued presence of familiar voices, as Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain part of the Ducks' broadcast team. Their longevity and experience will provide continuity and add to the overall viewing experience.
While the Ducks are making headlines with this innovative approach, they are not the only NHL team exploring new broadcasting horizons. The Florida Panthers, for instance, are moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, and the Dallas Stars also plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+.
Meanwhile, Diamond Sports Group, despite its financial struggles, will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and has existing agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
In summary, the Anaheim Ducks' strategic shift to a blend of direct-to-consumer streaming and local over-the-air broadcasts is a forward-thinking approach aimed at enhancing fan engagement and accessibility. As Aaron Teats emphasized, the goal is for every fan in their region to have the opportunity to watch Ducks games without cost across multiple platforms. By embracing this new model, the Ducks are setting a precedent in sports broadcasting that could influence how teams connect with their audiences in the digital age.