Essendon has long been regarded as a leader in the digital space and its step into the world of 360-degree technology further enhances its reputation.
In an AFL first, the Bombers in partnership with the Big Freeze, are producing a series of 360 degree video content that will feature across the Club’s website and big screens.
There will also be a special opportunity for fans to be involved during the Comeback March to the ‘G.
“We’re really excited that the Big Freeze has given us the opportunity to use this technology,” Chief Marketing Officer Justin Rodski said.
“We’re going to use it across our website, the big screen on match day and we’re also going to give our fans the opportunity to use it in round one at the start of our march to the ‘G.
“We’ll have the Comeback Story imaging and we’ll get as many fans through it as we can.
“It is really exciting technology and we’re rapt and really proud to be part of it.”
The Big Freeze uses multiple cameras to capture an image that can be viewed in every direction.
Those images can then be shared on social media.
“It’s all about action and in our world it’s about instant gratification,” Big Freeze Executive Producer Robert Latorre said.
“Everyone wants to tell everyone what they’re doing at that moment … this is the ultimate ‘selfie’.
“This is the 360 degree ‘selfie’ that everyone gets to share virally.
“It goes directly to your email and once it’s on your email it can go to social media and all that happens in seconds.
“The AFL is a prime candidate for this because they have a hug fan base, it’s a growing sport, it has got a lot of energy and it’s about contact and action and this is built for contact and action.”
Essendon stars Michael Hurley, Brendon Goddard, Tom Bellchambers and David Myers sampled the technology today.
“We’re the first AFL Club that has been able to do it, so that’s fantastic,” Hurley said.
“We’ve had a bit of a kick, did some slow-motion stuff and it has been a lot of fun.
“This is the kind of technology that was used on The Matrix and now it’ll be on our website and the big screen and it’ll look great.”
