Shoot! Obtaining Real-world Experience
October 31, 2012

Shoot! Obtaining Real-world Experience

Full Sail University collaborates with ESPN to produce the opening sequence for ESPN’s coverage of the 2012 MLS Cup playoffs.

WINTER PARK, FL. – Full Sail University collaborated with ESPN’s Emerging Technology Group and Production Department to create and produce the opening sequence for ESPN’s coverage of the 2012 MLS Cup playoffs. The opening sequence – filmed on location at the university – features Yorkshire, England's The Chevin, performing their hit song “Champion” and will air prior to every game of the 2012 MLS Cup playoffs on ESPN beginning October 31. 

The multi-day professional shoot included a total of 30 Full Sail students learning in numerous production roles, including lighting, camera, and behind-the-scenes documentation, all while being mentored by members of ESPN’s professional production team. In addition, over 15 of Full Sail’s faculty members were on hand to support the shoot.

“Once again we are proud to have joined forces with Full Sail to create a high-caliber professional production that will air on ESPN and be seen nationwide by an audience of MLS fans,” said David Saphirstein, director of creative technology at ESPN. “By allowing the students to get a very real and hands-on opportunity to gain experience from our ESPN production team, we are able to apply what they have learned in the classroom to an actual shoot. It’s incredible to witness the ability and positive attitudes of these students.”

"We are delighted for our students to be a part of this incredible production process alongside ESPN,” said Josh Mora, program director of the Sports Marketing and Media degree program at Full Sail University. “By experiencing notable projects before they graduate, our students take with them valuable accomplishments as they enter their chosen industry.”

ESPN Technology develops the ideas and applications that bring the fan closer to the game with new, innovative production enhancements. ESPN’s technology team designed and supports two of the most technologically-advanced production centers in the world, the Digital Center in Bristol, Conn. and the Los Angeles Production Center which is the first 1080p capable production facility. In addition, the Emerging Technology Group has developed many on-air advancements over the past 30 years, including ESPN 3D, virtual graphics applications, Huck-O-Meter, and the Emmy-winning EA Virtual Playbook.