Editor's Note: From time to time we have guest bloggers here at Comcast Voices. Today Justin Connolly, SVP nation accounts for Disney and ESPN media networks, blogs about the World Cup and ESPN. Thanks, Justin.
Greetings from Bristol, Connecticut. It’s hard to believe, but
this week marks the last week of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. I am fortunate that watching the World Cup is - technically - part of my job. Whether on our ESPN television networks, ESPN3.com or the recently launched ESPN 3D (all available to Comcast customers), it’s been an unbelievable few weeks. At ESPN, we think it represents a sea change in the way this country views the event overall. The excitement has been palpable. Even Team USA’s exit hasn’t diminished American’s interest in the sport. We’ve had World Cup fever for a few years at ESPN - and it’s hugely gratifying to see that the rest of the country does, too.
As I mentioned, with Comcast’s support, we recently launched our 3D network to rave reviews (check out this column from the New Yorker). By the end of the tournament, we will have televised 25 matches from South Africa in 3D. Having seen it for myself, I can tell you it is truly spectacular. The 3D experience is the next best thing to being at the tournament. It’s striking to see the depth of field as the action unfolds in 3D and I felt like I had a seat with the fans in South Africa. The cross-field passes and shots on goal are particularly impressive in 3D; and really, you haven’t lived until you’ve seen a Vuvuzela pop out of the screen in three dimensions.
So please enjoy these last few days of the tournament with us. It’s been a tremendous ride thus far. And don’t forget to watch the 2010 State Farm Home Run Derby on ESPN (also available on ESPN3D!) on Monday, July 12. The summer keeps rolling on, and we’ll continue to work with our partners at Comcast to bring you the best live sports, news and information - both on your TV screen and your computer.