New options available for livestreaming athletic events

At one time, the only way anyone could see a high school athletic event was to attend in person, and coaches had to trade films in order to scout opponents. Things have changed since then, and more changes are on the horizon.

Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn is considering an opportunity to provide greater video access to viewers and coaches. Athletic Director Mark Petersen told the school board on May 16 that HUDL and Fuller Digital are offering upgrades that include additional cameras and greater viewing capabilities.

HUDL, based in Lincoln, Neb., offers coaching tools, mobile and desktop apps, smart cameras and analytics, while Fuller Digital provides free livestreaming for viewers through partnerships with 28 schools, including H-M-S.

According to discussion, the proposal includes an outdoor camera and a camera for the high school gym. In addition to capturing video for livestreaming, the cameras provide coaches with sideline access and the ability to film practices.

"The nice thing about those cameras is that they are fully automated," Petersen noted.

The cost of the package is listed at over $13,000; however, it is being offered for $8,000. The district will get credit for what it had already paid for equipment. The remaining cost will come from sports fundraising accounts.

Superintendent Patrick Carlin asked if livestreaming affects gate receipts for games. Petersen said it likely has "some impact." He added that the district's existing digital camera could still be used for school-related events that could be livestreamed.

"I like the ability for people who cannot attend to see games," said Board Member Ryan Haack.

A formal contract will be considered at next month's meeting.

Also discussed this month was notification from JMC that fees for online credit card use will no longer be passed on to consumers, but to the school.

Carlin recommended charging a flat fee rather than the district absorbing it.

"You can only do a flat fee, not on a percentage basis," explained Business Manager Emily Widvey.

"I'd say pass it on," responded Board President Scott Vollink.

"I agree," added Haack. "We should not have to eat all that."

Looking forward to next year, freshmen Jamie Diaz, Damion Hansen, Jack Mastbergen, Eliza Tewes and Tori Webster visited with the eighth graders about the transition to high school. The fourth graders met with Principal Corey Ramsey, teachers and fifth grade students to also help them adjust to the move to the middle school.

"I think it was a worthy investment of time for our kids. The kids felt much better about things," Ramsey said about the two opportunities.

The high school's 2022-23 scheduling is completed. Principal Nate Hemiller said he and Counselor Kim Spier would work through conflicts before the end of this school year.

Thirty-six students "graduated" from Little Hawks Preschool. Principal Ashley Benz said the students were excited to start TK and/or kindergarten in the fall.