TV Sports Should Learn A Lesson From The Women

It’s rare that media companies learn from past mistakes. I know that has been my frustration over the years with my own industry. Resistance to change and trying to do things differently has been ignored by too many entities.

Don’t believe me? When was the last time you read a physical newspaper? The newspaper industry failing to grasp the need to move towards billable online content was a major downfall. Its evolve and improve or go join the dinosaurs. Somehow the TV sports industry wants to move down the same path without taking a profitable detour. I’m here to help.

The numbers for the Women’s National Title Game were staggering. It was the most-watched title game ever in Women’s sports but this is just a part of the story!

- The TV networks need to understand that almost EVERY major sport that they broadcast has more “star power” than the Women’s National Title Game. Fans could identify more participants in any of the major sports than they can a Women’s basketball game. Kaitlyn Clark was a unicorn. Dawn Staley is becoming renown. Those two figures would be also rans in visibility and brand recognition to stars in major sports. Star power sells.

- Imagine, playing a huge championship sporting event when fans of all ages could watch and enjoy it! What a foreign concept as the Men tipped off their final close to 9:30pm on a Monday night. It’s so dumb. If you want to grow a sport, broadcast it at a time when you can get the most eyeballs. Americans flocked to their TV’s for a sport they don’t usually care about. Think of what the pro sports could learn from this!

- How about World Series weekend games being played in the afternoon? Daylight baseball would resonate with fans. A 7:30pm first pitch should work in any TV market too.

- NBA Finals games starting past 8:30 is crazy. Weekend games in the final two rounds of the playoffs would score bigger numbers!

- Hockey needs to grow. Every weekend they need to play games all afternoon.

I’m not just saying this because I wake up at 4 am each morning. I’m thinking towards the future of pro and collegiate sports. The viewership has been aging out. It’s time to adjust.

Citizens Bank Park became the home of the Philadelphia Phillies 20 years ago, and the ballpark will debut new food and special merchandise options as part of a year-long milestone celebration.

Jim Thome and company christened the ballpark in 2004. Ryan Howard helped bring a World Series to Philadelphia in 2008, and Bryce Harper hopes to bring another. While the most passionate MLB fan base watches the Fightin’ Phils, they can also enjoy the best eats of any MLB ballpark.

Nothing can replace the good old American hot dog. Peanuts and crackers might be another tradition, but why limit youself given the incredible list of food options at Citizens Bank Park?

You’ve tried Bull’s BBQ and Chickie’s and Pete’s crab fries for two decades at the home of the Philadelphia Phillies. You’ve probably mixed the classics with newer options like the Schwarburger. Combine it all with brand new options like the bratwurst sandwich or the buffalo chicken hoagies from Greens and Grains.

If you’re feeling up to it, wash it down with one of those crazy beer bats while you’re at it. Do anything that helps you enjoy the crack of the bat and the summer atmosphere.

It’s all part of the Citizens Bank Park experience when the Phillies are back in the conversation as a World Series contender.

Dan Baker rolled out his best Harry Kalas impersonation to introduce former Phillies great Mickey Morandini. The Phillie Phanatic, of course, won’t miss a beat or a good food option at Citizens Bank Park this summer. The classic ballpark atmosphere will send chills down the spines of Phillies fans from Opening Day through Red October.

The summer serenity of the ballpark hits Philadelphia as much as the Jersey Shore or a celebration of America’s birthplace on the 4th of July. Citizens Bank Park is once again the place to be.