Florida A&M Department of Athletics announced Tuesday a new partnership with multi-platform technology and digital media services company NeuLion. The new website is expected to launch in late February or early March.
“We are very excited to partner with a company with a rock-solid reputation for athletic website development,” said FAMU director of athletics Derek Horne, according to FAMU’s press release. “With our moving and developing the FAMU athletic brand forward, we knew there was a need for a world-class partner to provide the best web portal available, and we chose NeuLion.”
The NeuLion platform will allow the athletic department the direct ability to manage the content put on the website. The original content was sent through a processor, rather than updated directly.
With the new system, any section of the site can be uploaded from anywhere. This includes updating schedules, rosters, stories and announcements. Videos can be streamed from an iPad, computer or phone.
“Auctions are also available as a new amenity,” said director of sports information Vaughn Wilson. “We’ll be auctioning off the ability to have game day experiences. We’ll be able to gather our social media in one area. Coaches’ shows will be broadcasted, on demand video of older content will be available and streaming press conferences will be available. The possibilities are limitless.”
Head volleyball coach Tony Trifonov says he’s anticipating showcasing the university further.
“It will be great for recruiting; our recruits from all over the world will be able to log on and watch a highlight video, or a game and see the competitiveness of the team,” Trifonov said. “Having players on this team from all over the world, some of the athlete’s parents who can’t travel to every game have a chance to watch some of the games. Parents want to see their kids play.”
Executive Vice President of NeuLion Chris Wagner said he is excited to be working with FAMU while delivering services that further connect fans and their school community.
“Our platform continues to help colleges further build a digital presence for their athletic programs and [I] have seen firsthand the positive results and increased revenue when fans are given additional touch points with their school,” he said.
NeuLion also has partnerships with and provides services for the NHL, NFL, NBA, UFC and NCAA schools. Duke, Ohio State, Oregon, Nebraska and LSU are a few of the colleges powered by NeuLion. They provide video streaming for the University of Florida.
Once the website is launched, the new URL will be www.FAMUAthletics.com as opposed to the current athletic site www.FAMURattlerSports.com.
“We are eager to continue to assemble the best possible resources that will allow FAMU Athletics to be successful in branding, delivery of content and procurement of funds for all of its sports and for all FAMU supporters to enjoy,” Horne said.