LANCASTER, Pa. – August 15, 2017 – The Centennial Conference today announced a partnership with Stretch Internet to become the conference's digital network provider. The three-year agreement with the Gilbert, AZ-based company runs through the 2019-20 academic year.
Stretch Internet will provide 1080p high definition video streaming across all computers, phones and tablets for the Conference and its 11 full-time members, including athletic contests, press conferences, Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and other events sponsored by the Conference and the schools' athletic departments. The Conference, as well as each institution, will receive customized, branded media portals. These portals will integrate social media feeds and live in-game statistics to optimize the viewing experience for the fan. Viewers also have the option of watching up to four live events simultaneously.
The Centennial Digital Network will also have over-the-top (OTT) applications to make broadcasts available on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire and Android TV. As it has always been, CentennialConference.TV will remain free to all users.
"It is an exciting time for the Centennial Conference as all 11 members join forces with Stretch to create the Centennial Digital Network," said Steve Ulrich, executive director of the Conference. "Our athletic communications offices produced over 1,000 high-quality live events a year ago and reached over 236,000 unique viewers. Stretch's dynamic platform will help the Centennial expand its reach and provide fans with a viewing experience that is second-to-none in Division III."
"We've been working with the Centennial Conference and the majority of their institutions for the better part of a decade now, and we're excited to create an official digital network," said Stretch Internet President Ryan Ermeling. "Our commitment to developing a phenomenal user experience and providing world-class support will empower the conference and its members to tell the stories of their student-athletes in new and exciting ways.
Stretch Internet, founded in 2003 and based in Gilbert, AZ, is the leading streaming provider in collegiate athletics, boasting partnerships with more than 500 schools and nearly three dozen conferences across North America. Known for its world-class customer support and partner-first mentality, Stretch has built a user-centric platform that complements HD video with live data, social media and a host of customizable features to deliver an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience across multiple channels.
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