In a groundbreaking move that is set to revolutionize the way sports are broadcasted to fans, the Dallas Stars have announced a seven-year deal with A Parent Media Co. Inc. (APMC) to develop and broadcast all of their games on the VICTORY+ app. This ad-based direct-to-consumer streaming platform will be free to all in-market fans, marking the first time a major professional sports team will offer live games at no cost.
Neil Gruninger, the president and CEO of APMC, expressed his excitement about the partnership with the Dallas Stars, highlighting the team’s forward-thinking approach and focus on their fans. The agreement is seen as a catalyst for change in how sports are transmitted to their audience, utilizing APMC’s unique technology and streaming platform to ensure the highest quality of content.
While direct-to-consumer streaming has been done before in professional sports, the concept of offering live games for free is considered revolutionary. Many Stars fans have expressed their enthusiasm for the VICTORY+ app, with some even willing to pay a fee to watch a season’s worth of games. However, APMC’s ad-based model ensures that no subscription is required, addressing the issue of subscription fatigue among families.
The broadcasts on VICTORY+ will be produced similarly to how they were during the team’s previous partnership with Bally Sports, featuring a rewind feature and accessibility for a few days after the game. In addition to live games, the app will also offer highlights and other content, including historical broadcasts and behind-the-scenes videos with players.
The decision to offer games for free on VICTORY+ is part of the Stars’ efforts to grow their fanbase in Texas and beyond. By removing barriers to entry, the team aims to make it easier for new fans to experience hockey for the first time and ultimately celebrate the game of hockey with a wider audience.
The success of the Stars’ deal with APMC has already attracted interest from other professional teams, with Gruninger confident that more teams will follow suit in the future. As the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, the partnership between the Dallas Stars and APMC sets a new standard for accessibility and fan engagement in the industry.