SEC football is a religion in the South. So schools were understandably concerned that their fans and alumni might not be able to access ESPN’s new network. That’s why it was critical that ESPN target these markets early with special events and messaging, spurring them to sign up at GetSECNetwork.com. Over 14 months, ESPN had more than a dozen grassroots events spreading the word. It also made sure to get execs and announcers appearing at industry events in “pressure markets” to help drive distribution. The crusade continued right up to its August launch, with special media events (a preview of the net in Charlotte and a NYC media day). The high demand and extensive MVPD deals have led some to declare it one of the most successful network launches in cable history.

The Daily

Subscribe
Tuesday–July 1

AMC’s ‘Nautilus’ Explores the Origins of Captain Nemo

Captain Namo is one of the most famous characters in all of sci-fi. Yet, while Jules Verne’s ill-fated explorer has starred in many adaptations, none has dived so deeply into Nemo’s origin story as AMC’s “Nautilus.”

Read the Full Issue
The Skinny is delivered on Tuesday and focuses on the cable profession. You'll stay in the know on the headlines, topics and special issues you value most. Sign Up

Calendar

Sep 11
2025 Faxies Awards Faxies Nominations Open! Final deadline: 4/4/25
Full Calendar

Jobs

Seeking an INDUSTRY JOB or hiring for one?
VIEW JOBS

In conjunction with our sister brand, Cynopsis, we are offering hiring managers a deep pool of media-savvy, skilled candidates at a range of experience levels and sectors. The result will be an even more robust industry job board, to help both employers and job seekers.

Contact Carley Ashley, [email protected], for more information about posting a job on the website and our Jobs newsletter, sent twice weekly to 85,000 media professionals.