Sports media has been revolutionized by advancements in digital technology as broadcasting has now reached beyond only cable or satellite TV. The Internet has become a popular platform for delivering games and events directly to fans all over the world. It is now expected that every professional sports club has its own website that provides a wealth of resources for fans. Taken to another level, websites of sports teams must be compatible with mobile devices in order to reach smartphone and tablet users.
Mobile technology plays a major role in modern sports media that reaches an audience beyond just TV channel subscribers. Smartphone users download apps to receive the latest scores, highlights and more of particular players or teams. To save money on precious mobile data, sports fans subscribe to social media outlets to receive such information. For example, most professional sports clubs or events have their own social media profile. Live updates of scores are posted on such social network channels. Regardless of where they are, smartphone users can stay updated on their favorite players and teams without burning up mobile data plans.
Traditional sports channels expand their customer base by creating virtual channels that are available online. Recordings and live streaming of games are usually available on Internet-based sports subscriptions. Members also get exclusive access to interviews, behind the scenes and much more. Some online sports channels are complimentary plans that are available for free to subscribers of TV sports packages. In an age of smart TV technology, sports channels understand the importance of seamlessly syncing traditional broadcasting with Internet-based content.
Social media is also a powerful platform for athletes, managers and coaches to connect directly with fans. Official profile pages of such sports figures are created and authenticated by the affiliated clubs, organizations or events. It is common for athletes to set the record straight using social media. Sports superstars often personally release certain information about injuries, contracts, training and other issues relevant to their sports career. Athletes also use social media to discredit or acknowledge certain rumors that are circulating online and in traditional media.
Some athletes are too busy to use social media on a daily basis. Managers and PR staff might take over responsibilities for officially managing social network pages of high-profile players. Similarly, some high-level executives of sports channels also use social media to make official public statements. A CEO such as Jed Drake and other executives are examples of sports media moguls who use social media on a regular basis.
Radio is another popular platform for sports media that has yet to fade away. Modern digital and satellite radio channels deliver live sports scores, interviews, play-by-play commentary and more. Radio sports broadcasting is typically available for a monthly subscription that includes hundreds of channels like music, politics, adult talk shows and more. Digital radio is also available in app format for mobile devices. Smartphone users can listen to live game commentary without having to spend excessive data when using the Internet in some cases.