Sports Media Report
Monumental Sports Network, a business of Monumental Sports & Entertainment today announced the launch of anywhere, anytime access to hundreds of live games and exclusive on-the-go original programming, fan events and limited-edition merchandise, connecting the D.C. sports fan community to the teams they care about most.
Available through annual or monthly subscription plans, the membership package includes some of the D.C. area’s top teams — from the Washington Mystics and the DMV’s newest pro team, the Arena Football League’s Washington Valor, to the Capitals minor league affiliate Hershey Bears (AHL) and South Carolina Stingrays (ECHL) and elite high school and community teams DC fans cheer and follow with pride. The enhanced Monumental Sports Network, presented by Ticketmaster, will provide insider access featuring the Washington Capitals and the Washington Wizards, including a brand-new midday show designed to reflect and feed fans’ anticipation to tune into that night’s game.
“The passionate connections that DC fans have with sports teams and our community are at the core of what Monumental stands for,” said Monumental Sports Network vice president & general manager Zach Leonsis. “This is a personal sports network, delivering direct-to-fan accessibility that reflects how fans feel about their favorite D.C. teams – every day, all year long, no matter where they live and however they want to consume and connect.”
The subscription bundle features:
* Hundreds of live games, including the Valor, Mystics, Bears, Stingrays, United Social Sports and unprecedented live access to your favorite local teams, featuring fan favorites, as well as up-and-coming teams and athletes.
* A full pipeline of innovative original programming, including brand-new gameday “tune-in” shows for the Capitals and Wizards that get you ready to watch the game later that day on CSN; all-access, behind-the-scenes, binge-worthy series; original documentaries; and exclusive conversations between D.C. sports personalities and a dynamic range of guests.
* Exclusive experiences and “in-real-life” events, including opportunities to interact in-person with players and coaches; special events at Verizon Center and Kettler Capitals Iceplex; team watch parties; special discounts and access; and a special Facebook group. Subscribers will also have access to tickets to MSE teams on a seasonal basis, subject to availability.
* Limited-edition swag, including exclusive designs for clothing and other merchandise that fans won’t find in the team stores — or anywhere else. From retro looks to the latest memes, Monumental Sports Network members will have access to a curated online-store experience not available to other fans.
“Live games, original programming, exclusive team swag and engaging experiences with players are each compelling elements for the die-hard fans,” Zach Leonsis said. “But together, they will enrich the experience for the amazing fans of D.C. sports.”
Monumental Sports Network Available on Range of Platforms for Convenient Access
Powered by the ViewLift platform, Monumental’s subscription service is available everywhere fans would want to access it: on-the-go and on their phone (apps for iOS and Android) as well as while relaxing with their bigger screens (Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire, Google Chromecast and MonumentalSportsNetwork.com).
Annual subscriptions are available at $8.99 per month; month-to-month subscriptions are $12.99. For a limited time, Monumental Sports Network is offering the first month free of charge when purchasing a month-to-month subscription. As part of 2017-18 season ticket member plans, fans will automatically receive annual access to Monumental Sports Network subscription content.
Monumental Sports Network recently announced a strategic investment from NBC Sports Group, forming a first-of-its kind cross ownership structure between cable and team partners across a linear regional sports network and a digital, over-the-top sports network.
“We’re bringing the next generation of live games and sports programming to the next generation of D.C. sports fans – wherever, whenever,” said Zach Leonsis. “The future of sports is experiential, engaging and exclusive, and it’s available with a click, tap or swipe on our Network.”
“We help sports, entertainment and education companies reach their customers on every digital device, and Monumental Sports Network’s offering is an unusually powerful one for its fans,” noted Rick Allen, CEO of ViewLift. “Great live games and in-depth original programming, unique events access and merchandise – all in a single service. It’s a truly Monumental offer.”
Live game streaming will be enhanced by the NeuLion Digital Platform. Monumental Sports Network will leverage NeuLion services for delivery of live video using NeuLion’s next generation adaptive bit rate streaming, offering viewers of the new service a world class video experience.
“Our experience and expertise delivering live sports throughout the U.S for big brands including the NFL, Univision, NBA, UFC and others has allowed us to continue to land fantastic new partners,” says Chris Wagner, Executive Vice President at NeuLion. “We are excited to team up with Monumental Sports Network.”
