The Athletes Unlimited softball season is quickly approaching; the season kicks off August 30. Here are some more news and notes on the upcoming season via press release.
Broadcast Information
All 30 Athletes Unlimited Softball games will be available for fans to see live on a combination of CBS Sports Network and ESPN with an Opening Day doubleheader being streamed on ESPN 3 on August 30 at 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. ET. As the lead broadcast television partner, CBS SportsNetwork will televise seven games in the United States and Canada. In comparison, ESPN will distribute 23 games across its platforms in the U.S. ESPN will also distribute these 23 matchups outside the U.S via its platforms throughout Spanish-speaking Latin America and in Canada via its partner TSN.
The Athletes Unlimited broadcast team will be Eric Collins and Danielle Lawrie. Collins, considered one of the preeminent voices for women’s softball, calling hundreds of games at the professional, collegiate, and international levels including play-by-play for the USA National Team, the National Pro Fastpitch Championship and Women’s College World Series on ESPN. Lawrie was a former College World Series Champion when she played for the University of Washington in 2009. Lawrie is now a member of the Candian National team, and she will provide the color commentary.
Virtual Fan Experience
Firstly, Athletes Unlimited will provide a virtual fan experience that will allow fans to participate during every game. Elements include a downloadable watch party kit which will consist of family activities and a scorecard. Virtual autograph sessions with players and a pick-em game, created by Micro Fantasy, which will offer a second screen experience where fans can guess what is going to happen during every play of the game with the chance to win prizes.
Secondly, Athletes Unlimited will launch the Unlimited Club, a paid membership across all Athletes Unlimited sports leagues. The annual membership cost starts at $19.99, with 10% of the fee going directly to the Unlimited Club Player Bonus pool. Unlimited Club benefits will include member voting on:
- How MVP points are awarded (alongside the players)
- Which player will be mic’d up during every game
- End of season Fan Favorites and All-Stars Awards
- Input on future merchandise
- Exclusive content including live video chats in the dugouts and virtual meetings and autograph sessions with players
- Access to limited edition merchandise
- Special offers from Athletes Unlimited partners
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