Elevating the Game Day Experience for the Brantford Bulldogs with Vizrt NDI TriCaster & 3Play
Client: Brantford Bulldogs, Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Industry: Sports & Entertainment
Project Location: Civic Centre, Brantford, Ontario
Solution Provider: Aries Pro Solutions / Videolink
Background
The Brantford Bulldogs, a prominent team in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), faced the challenge of relocating their home venue to the Civic Centre in Brantford, Ontario, due to major renovations at their previous location, the First Ontario Centre in Hamilton. This move required a rapid and comprehensive upgrade of the new venue's broadcast and live production equipment to ensure a seamless transition and enhanced game day experience for fans.
Objectives
- Equip the Civic Centre with cutting-edge broadcast technology for live game production.
- Implement a versatile and high-quality replay system for instant replays and highlights.
- Enhance the fan experience with professional-grade displays in the new sports bar.
- Integrate advanced digital signage solutions for dynamic menu boards and signage.
- Ensure flexible and efficient content distribution throughout the venue.
- Incorporate real-time sports graphics and statistics for an immersive viewing experience.
Solution
Aries Pro Solutions - Videolink, the Bulldogs' trusted provider for broadcast equipment, was enlisted to outfit the Civic Centre with state-of-the-art technology:
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NewTek TC1 TriCaster 4K System: A flagship live production system was installed with a Flex Panel NDI enabled control surface, offering unparalleled live switching, streaming, and recording capabilities
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3Play 3P1 4-Channel NDI/SDI Replay System: This system was integrated to provide flawless multi-angle replays and highlights, enhancing the viewer experience both on-site and for broadcast audiences.
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Sony Professional Displays: The sports bar within the Civic Centre was upgraded with Sony's latest pro displays, offering stunning visuals for an immersive fan experience.
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BrightSign Digital Signage Players: Three BrightSign players were installed to power dynamic menu boards and digital signage, enriching the visual environment and fan interaction throughout the venue.
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NewTek/Vizrt and Science Image NDI Encoders/Decoders: Over 25 encoders/decoders were deployed to facilitate high-quality content distribution to the pro displays, ensuring crisp and clear menu boards and signage.
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Kiloview Cube X1 Distribution Unit: This unit was chosen to route NDI feeds efficiently throughout the sports bar and the wider Civic Centre, ensuring seamless content delivery.
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Vizrt Flowics Graphics Integration: A new license was acquired to integrate Vizrt Flowics with the Tricaster TC1, enabling the display of real-time player stats and OHL information, enriching the broadcast with dynamic and informative graphics.
Implementation
Aries Pro Solutions / Videolink executed the project within a remarkably short timeframe, ensuring everything was in place for the Bulldogs' home opener. The installation included coordinating with multiple technology providers and integrating various components into a cohesive system that met the Bulldogs' operational and entertainment needs.
Outcome
The project was a resounding success, significantly enhancing the game day experience for Bulldogs fans. The Civic Centre's new AV setup provided a broadcast-quality live production of games, complete with instant replays and real-time sports graphics. Fans enjoying the game from the sports bar benefited from high-definition displays, and the digital signage throughout the venue created a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
Conclusion
The collaboration between the Brantford Bulldogs and Aries Pro Solutions / Videolink exemplifies how strategic technological enhancements can transform a sports venue, enriching the fan experience and ensuring the legacy of a team continues to grow in its new home. This project stands as a testament to the Bulldogs' commitment to their fans and the innovative solutions provided by Aries Pro Solutions / Videolink.