I figure that perhaps one of the best ways to keep myself updating this blog would be to post my daily media interactions. This can include project work, media in the field, or even just what I’m watching or listening to at a certain point of the day.

Today, I am interacting with media on my laptop in several ways. With my second blog audit due tomorrow, I am finally getting around to editing the MC50 exercise from the Week 5 tutorial. Simultaneously, I am casually watching game 4 of the first-round NHL Playoff series between the Chicago Blackhawks and the St Louis Blues using the NHL.tv subscription streaming service.

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The stream is of the CSN broadcast emanating from the United Centre in Chicago, Illinois – where advertisements – both of North American brands (such as Geico, Discover and United) and global brands (such as Bridgestone, Toyota and Honda) – line the boards. Between play, the in-house PA blasts popular music that is audible on the broadcast – most notably the “goal song” of the Chicago Blackhawks – The Fratellis’ “Chelsea Dagger”. I find it interesting to note how much media there actually is at sporting games when you focus in on it — and for leagues such as the NHL and NBA, that amount could be set to increase, with both leagues exploring the idea of opening jerseys to sponsors; much like the AFL at the moment.

It has caused a lot of discussion amongst fans — particularly in the NHL where fans have looked to European eyesores and are concerned their teams could end up looking like these walking billboards.

However, it is probably unlikely the league will end up like this. Nonetheless, it is interesting that this idea is yet to be truly explored by the NHL. Undoubtedly, it would increase the revenue of clubs – which would be helpful in non-traditional markets (Florida, Arizona, Carolina) which, when the team is not succeeding, often struggle and are forced to sell tickets at extremely low prices.