At halftime of the 2007 Blue-White Spring game Middle Tennessee Athletic Director Chris Massaro announced to the crowd that starting in the 2007 season Floyd Stadium would have a new, state-of-the-art video board. This was an announcement that many Blue Raider fans had anticipated for a long time
BlueRaiderZone.com sat down with Brad Smith, the assistant director of Middle Tennessee marketing, to see what type of impact fans can expect the video board to make in their gameday experience.
“The opening segment is really a major priority at this time” Smith said. “This project is a collaboration of the marketing department, media relations, football operations, and the ticket office. We know that people are expecting something great and we want to exceed their expectations.”
For the most die-hard of fans the most important feature may be that of video replays, but the video production will go way beyond that aspect. Middle Tennessee will be working with a professional production company to provide even the most casual fan a great experience. According to Smith there are many different ideas that are currently being looked at and worked on to make each and every game a memorable experience. Although Smith wants to keep many of these ideas a surprise, he did share a few of them with the BlueRaiderZone.
According to Smith here are some ideas that would increase one’s chances of seeing themselves on the video screen. One of the cameras will be designated to go out and locate fans to feature on the video screen. They will be looking for the most spirited fans to feature. Those who are cheering loudly during the game or those who take great pride in dressing in their most creative Blue Raider “outfit” will stand the best chance of seeing themselves on the video boards.
For those people who purchase group tickets of 20 or more one of the perks is to see their name mentioned on the video screen. Also, if a group purchases enough tickets they will have a live shot of their group on the video board.
If a child is celebrating their birthday, one might want to consider the Lightning’s Birthday Package. This consists of a minimum of 10 tickets, concessions, a special gift, and the child’s name displayed on the video board.
What about the romantic at heart who might want to propose by way of the video board? This something that will be available for a fee.
There are also many other ideas planned for the video boards. The university plans on sending a camera out to the tailgating areas. This way if someone was not aware of the tailgating scene on campus, Raiderwalk, inflatables, or any other aspect of the pregame festivities they will be able to see what they missed.
Smith was also quick to point out that no fan will want to miss the Nov. 10 match-up vs. the Ragin Cajuns of Louisiana. This game has been designated Salute to Veterans Day and there are many special things planned, many of which will involve the video board. When asked about specifics, Smith would not elaborate. Once again, he wants a few things to be a surprise for Blue Raider fans.
The new video boards were purchased to enhance the Blue Raider experience. Based on what Brad Smith revealed, every one who attends a Blue Raider game should find the 2007 atmosphere even better than any previous year.