In 1981, MTV claimed that ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’. Since then, we’ve not only seen radio live, but thrive in the area of live sports coverage. A key part of that success as been radio’s ability to evolve with the times and move online by encompassing all forms of audio including satellite radio, podcasting and live streaming.
The NHL’s Washington Capitals have embraced a new idea this season, with their Director of Broadcasting John Walton spearheading a new content delivery system for the teams fans. In April of 2015, the Caps launched the ‘Capitals Radio Network’, a two part idea that would not only distribute live Capitals games to their network of terrestrial AM/FM radio stations in the DC area, but also provide music and sports content 24 hour a day, 7 days a week for Capitals fans. The Caps website describes it as “featuring round-the-clock news updates, player interviews and game replays. Caps Radio 24/7 is the online home of the Capitals Radio Network, airing all Capitals games as well as select Hershey Bears broadcasts.”
Last week I had the opportunity to chat with John over the phone to discuss how the idea came to be, the content that allows Caps Radio 24/7 to run continuously, the staffing it requires and where the Network moves to from here.
A big thank you to John for being very gracious with his time during a morning commute to the rink to cover a game day skate. Follow John on Twitter to receive insight into the Caps and the Network. You can listen to the Capitals Radio Network via CapsRadio247.com, or on the Caps App for both iPhone and Android. More information on the Network is available here.
