Central Michigan University Athletics
FAQ: College Sports Pass Subscription Audio Plan
Aug. 28, 2002
Audio broadcasts for Central Michigan University athletics at cmuchippewas.com are now available only on a subscription basis. For additional information, read this release: Real Audio Release.
COLLEGE SPORTS PASS: FAQ
Why are you charging fans for something that used to be free?
First, the package that's being offered this year has never been offered before. There will be more live events, offered in a better format within the most advanced media player available. Plus, there will also be more dynamic on-demand media content than ever before - the fact is that what's been offered free in the past should not be compared to the College Sports Pass product. We think the programming offered in this program, as presented in such a robust manner, has real value.
This new model will allow us to provide a better fan experience beginning this season and beyond. Some exciting new features that you'll see include:
* Better quality audio and video
* More live and on-demand programming
* A school branded RealOne player that includes a web browser along with integrated gameday features like "GameTracker" for football and hoops
* Multiple access point customer support including seven-day-a-week phone support
Finally, streaming broadcasts and hosting multimedia are expensive endeavors, and we made the decision to shift to a business model that will allow us to operate successfully now and in the future. Sports leagues like Major League Baseball and the NBA, as well as leading media companies like ABC, CBS, CNN and Fox, have already made this transition.
Why are you charging while other schools are still free?
We believe that most colleges and universities will be using some form of subscription product for their multimedia content by the start of next season. We decided to shift into this model now rather than later. By making the transition now, we can begin offering our fans this improved experience immediately. Further, subscriptions benefit the athletic department from a revenue standpoint, vice draining the athletic budget.
Why should I pay $6.95 when I only want to listen to one game? Isn't $6.95 fairly expensive? Presently there is an option to purchase the College Sports Pass for a three-month period at a reduced price of $18.95. Also, RealNetworks plans to listen to examine user data and fan feedback over the course of this school year, and they will be looking at different programming options in near future. Also, we encourage you to take advantage of the 14-day free trial offer, which will allow you to experience the new product at no cost.
What do I get for the $6.95 each month?
In addition to live audio broadcasts of currently available sports, you will also have access to weekly coach's shows, press conferences, video highlights, practice or post-game clips and more. All of the programming will be available in an upgraded player with a better-quality delivery. In the future, we hope to expand this programming even further with other exciting features and content that will be exclusive to College Sports Pass subscribers.
I am trying to sign up online but I am having problems.
You can contact RealNetwork's customer support center at 206-674-2680.
Monday-Friday: 9 am - 10:30 pm Eastern
Saturday-Sunday: 10:30 am - 10:30 pm Eastern
I am a paid subscriber but I cannot access a game or programming.
You can contact RealNetwork's customer support center at 206-674-2680.
Monday-Friday: 9 am - 10:30 pm Eastern
Saturday-Sunday: 10:30 am - 10:30 pm Eastern
I am trying to download the RealOne player but I am having difficulties.
You can contact RealNetwork's technical support center at 206-674-2680.
Monday-Friday: 9 am - 10:30 pm Eastern
Saturday-Sunday: 10:30 am - 10:30 pm Eastern