2025 EVENT PROGRAM
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DIAMOND SPONSORS
CASE STUDY SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSOR
EVENT SPONSORS
THE COMPLETE EVENT PRODUCTION PACKAGE
TECH-ENABLED WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
Program Productions’ advanced technology for workforce management provides clients with the advantage of centralized data, enabling better analytics for more efficient handling of complex schedules and logistics.
Get connected at programproductions.com.
PAYROLL, DATA, TECHNOLOGY
Powered by ProCrewz®, XLT delivers tech supported payroll services that ensure employment compliance, streamline administrative processes and provide comprehensive support.
Learn more at xltms.com.
POWERFUL TECHNOLOGY, INTEGRATED SERVICES
ProCrewz® is the essential resource management software platform and mobile app built to support complex workforce scenarios and integrated for seamless hiring, employment and payroll management.
Explore key features and watch demos at procrewz.com.
SAFE, PROFICIENT STAGE CREWS
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS COMPANY
Rhino Staging, now a proud partner of Program Productions, is the nation’s top provider of human capital solutions to the entertainment industry, powering over 25,000 events each year.
Discover their expertise at rhinostaging.com.
Armstrong Hall is a full-service provider of skilled union labor and payroll solutions, leading the industry with innovative technology that streamlines scheduling, logistics, real-time communication, data access, and safety.
See more at armstronghall.com.
Day 1 | Monday, June 23
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. OPENING NIGHT RECEPTION in Exhibits Area
Day 2 | Tuesday, June 24
8:00 – 8:45 a.m. NETWORKING BREAKFAST in Exhibits Area
8:45 – 8:50 a.m. WELCOMING REMARKS
PRESENTER: Bob Carzoli, Program Productions, Executive Chairman 8:50 – 9:10 a.m. OPENING PRESENTATION: State of the Regional Sports Industry Sports-media veteran and strategic advisor Patrick Crakes returns to the Regional Sports Production Summit to offer an update on the current state of the localsports-media distribution and business landscape.
PRESENTER: Patrick Crakes, Crakes Media, Principal 9:10 – 9:50 a.m. THE RSN REALITY: How Productions Are Finding New Ways To Not Just Survive, But Thrive
Although RSNs continue to produce the lion’s share of live pro-sports broadcasts in the U.S., it’s impossible to avoid today’s market reality: times are tough. Between cable’s ongoing cord-cutting exodus, more games migrating to national-rights packages, and a litany of pro teams opting to go the DTC or OTA route in lieu of cable, what are RSNs doing to survive? Hear from production leaders on how they continue to innovate.
MODERATOR: Jason Dachman, SVG, Editorial Director, U.S.; Regional Sports Production Program Director
PANELISTS:
Matt Krol, Altitude Sports & Entertainment, SVP & General Manager
Joe Riley, Chicago Sports Network, EVP, Production, Programming & Broadcast Operations
Matt Sandulli, SNY, VP, Live Game & Long-Form Production
Jon Slobotkin, NBC Sports Regional Networks, SVP, Content and Live Programming
Nick Steger, Marquee Sports Network, Executive Producer
9:50 – 10:30 a.m. NETWORKING BREAK in Exhibits Area
10:30 – 10:55 a.m. KEYNOTE CONVERSATION: Norby Williamson on a New Production Era for FanDuel Sports Network
Main Street Sports President of Production and Programming Norby Williamson sits down to offer a look at how the revamped FanDuel Sports Network operation is handling live productions for more than 3,000 NBA, NHL and MLB events, as well as original programming for the company’s 15 RSNs.
INTERVIEWER: Ken Kerschbaumer, SVG, Co-Executive Director, Editorial Services
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Norby Williamson, FanDuel Sports Network, President, Production and Programming
10:55 – 11:35 a.m. NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK: Teams, Streamers, and OTA Broadcasters Join the Regional Party
As the RSN landscape undergoes seismic shifts, pro teams, streaming platforms, and over-the-air (OTA) broadcasters are stepping in to reshape local-sports coverage. Hear how these organizations are developing their own production strategies to engage local fans in a whole new way.
SESSION INTRODUCTION: Mitch Askenas, Comcast Technology Solutions, Executive Director, Sales Strategy
MODERATOR: Kristian Hernández, SVG, Senior Editor
PANELISTS:
Bob Adlhoch, Phoenix Suns, Executive Producer
Travis Henderson, Utah Jazz, SVP of Broadcasting
Ryan Schaber, Seattle Kraken, VP, Broadcast
Bill Stafford, Raycom Sports, VP of Engineering and Technology Operations
Angie Swint, Texas Rangers, SVP, Broadcasting and Rangers Sports Network, Executive Producer
11:35 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. TECH IN ACTION: The Latest Innovations and Solutions Impacting Regional Sports Production
As the regional sports market transforms, so too does the technology driving its live productions. Industry leaders will discuss advances in cloud-based workflows, remote production, AI-driven automation, IP-based transmission, graphics and data integration, enhanced fan engagement tools, and more.
MODERATOR: Mike Webb, YES Network, VP, Broadcast Operations and Engineering
PANELISTS:
Jeff Lawson, Panasonic, National Sales Manager - Vertical Accounts
Charlie Myers, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, CTO
Francesco Scartozzi, Matrox Video, VP, Sales & Business Development
Josh Stoner, Canon, Senior Specialist, Pro Rep Team, Broadcast and Cinema Lenses
Forrest Sussman, Lawo, Senior Sales Director
12:15 – 1:05 p.m. NETWORKING LUNCH in Exhibits Area
1:05 – 1:45 p.m. THE REGIONAL LOGISTICAL PUZZLE: Facilities, Labor, and Operations Update
With the regional sports landscape evolving, production teams are navigating new challenges in facilities, staffing, and operational workflows. This panel will provide a comprehensive update on the state of regional sports production: the impact of RSN restructuring, shifting labor dynamics, and much more.
MODERATOR: Peter Thordarson, Diversified, Principal Consultant, Advisory Services
PANELISTS:
Nick Garvin, Mobile TV Group, CEO
Mat Hathaway, FanDuel Sports Network, VP, Engineering
Jess Kowatch, Program Productions, EVP, Operations and COO
Robin Moore, YES Network, Director, Field Operations
Garrett Sullivan, Game Creek Video, SVP, Production & Finance
1:45 – 2:00 p.m. TRANSFORMING VENUE PRODUCTION AND TRANSPORT SERVICES
Tata Communications Media and The Switch showcase their on-demand venue production and transport service designed specifically for professional sports venues, teams, and rightsholders.
PRESENTER: Meredith Wolcott, Tata Communications Media, Sales Director
2:00 – 2:25 p.m. NETWORKING BREAK in Exhibits Area
2:25 – 2:55 p.m. ALTCASTS ARE ALL THE RAGE: How Data Animations, Supplementary Commentary, and Whiparound Shows Are Engaging the Next-Gen Sports Fan Alternative broadcasts are redefining the sports-viewing experience, blending animation, data-driven storytelling, and interactive elements to engage a younger, more digital-savvy audience. This panel will explore how leagues, broadcasters, and tech innovators leverage alternative production styles to create new entry points for fans.
MODERATOR: Jason Dachman, SVG, Editorial Director, U.S.
PANELISTS:
Matt Celli, NHL Productions, Group VP & Coordinating Director
Justin Hathaway, Marquee Sports Network, VP of Content
Josh Jun, NESN, VP of Content
David Koppett, Sportsnet Pittsburgh, Senior Director of Production & Operations
2:55 – 3:10 p.m. A CHAMPIONSHIP-WORTHY FAN EXPERIENCE:
How Marquee Sports Network Created a High-Impact DTC
Streaming Service With MediaKind
In today’s competitive sports landscape, delivering an exceptional fan experience is essential. This case study will highlight how Marquee Sports Network in close collaboration with MediaKind built and evolved a Cubs-focused DTC streaming platform, using fan data to shape and enhance the experience.
PRESENTERS:
Mike Kern, Marquee Sports Network, Director, DTC & Digital Products
Erik Ramberg, MediaKind, VP of Business Development and Strategic Partners
3:10 – 3:50 p.m. THE STREAMING AGE ARRIVES: DTC, FAST, and Authenticated Apps
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming, free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels, and RSNs’ authenticated apps are redefining how fans access live coverage. This panel will examine how teams, broadcasters, and tech providers navigate the streaming era, balancing reach, revenue, and fan engagement.
MODERATOR: Brandon Costa, SVG, Director of Digital
PANELISTS:
Samantha Brady, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Senior Director, Product & Platform
A.J. Ponsiglione, Spectrum Networks, Senior Coordinating Producer
David Schafer, MSG Networks, SVP Product, Technology & Operations
Michael Schneider, FanDuel Sports Network, COO/GM, DTC
3:50 p.m. EVENT ENDS
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
NORBY WILLIAMSON, FanDuel Sports Network, President, Production and Programming
Williamson currently serves as the president of production and programming for FanDuel Sports Network’s 15 regional sports networks. Prior to joining Main Street Sports, owner of FanDuel Sports Network, Williamson spent nearly 40 years at ESPN.
GENERAL SESSION SPEAKERS
BOB ADLHOCH, Phoenix Suns, Executive Producer
Adlhoch joined the Phoenix Suns in 2001 as their TV producer / director. Having produced/directed nearly 2,000 NBA broadcasts, he now oversees all elements of live game production for the Suns, WNBA Phoenix Mercury and G League affiliate Valley Suns.
MITCH ASKENAS, Comcast Technology Solutions, Executive Director, Sales Strategy
With over three decades of experience in the media and technology sectors, Askenas has demonstrated exceptional leadership across various executive roles in engineering, product development, business development, and sales.
SAMANTHA BRADY, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Senior Director, Product & Platform
Brady leads Monumental’s DTC platform and product strategy, including development and operations across web, mobile, and TVE. Brady focuses on driving user acquisition and engagement through innovative features and strategies that support business growth.
BOB CARZOLI, Program Productions, Executive Chairman
For over two full decades, Carzoli has overseen the astronomical growth of Program Productions, XLT Management Services, ProCrewz, and Kingsbridge Shared Services. Today, these entities make up the industry’s largest labor management group.
PATRICK CRAKES, Crakes Media, Principal
Crakes has served in various senior executive media roles during the course of his career including several at FOX Sports. During the last six years of his 23-year tenure there he was SVP of programming, research, and content strategy.
NICK GARVIN, Mobile TV Group, CEO
Garvin is the CEO for Mobile TV Group (MTVG). This includes all strategic partnerships, management of all day-to-day operations for its mobile unit fleet covering over 4,000 live events annually, and its audio/video manufacturing facility called Colorado Studios.
MAT HATHAWAY, FanDuel Sports Network, VP, Engineering
Hathaway is a seasoned broadcast engineering professional. In his current role, he oversees all broadcast, network, and systems infrastructure, ensuring seamless operations and technological advancement across the organization.
TRAVIS HENDERSON, Utah Jazz, SVP of Broadcasting
Henderson has produced and directed television coverage for the Utah Jazz since the 1997-98 season and now oversees all Utah Jazz broadcasting (radio and TV), including all full- and part-time broadcast employees.
* JOSH JUN, NESN, VP of Content
Jun is responsible for all the content production and programming for the company. This is inclusive of live game production, original linear and multiplatform long and short form video programming, social media and editorial on nesn.com and snp.com.
SPEAKER BIOS
MIKE KERN, Marquee Sports Network, Director, DTC & Digital Products
Kern is director, DTC & product at Marquee Sports Network. Since joining in 2024, he’s leaned on his AI-background to overhaul Marquee’s OTT platform, refine its analytics strategy, and support record-setting engagement growth.
DAVID KOPPETT, Sportsnet Pittsburgh, Senior Director of Production & Operations
Koppett oversees all Pittsburgh Pirates and Penguins coverage. An Emmy Award-winning executive and producer, Koppett is deeply experienced in game telecast, studio, documentary, digital, and social media production.
JESS KOWATCH, Program Productions, EVP, Operations and COO
Kowatch joined Program Productions in 2016. As COO of North America’s leading broadcast labor management firm she exemplifies a laserfocused commitment to both customer satisfaction and employee wellbeing, establishing a balanced and thriving organizational culture.
* MATT KROL, Altitude Sports & Entertainment, SVP & General Manager
Krol has been with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) since 2005 and was named as SVP, General Manager, and Executive Producer of Altitude Sports Entertainment, KSE’s Denver-based regional sports network, in 2019.
JEFF LAWSON, Panasonic, National Sales Manager - Vertical Accounts
Lawson is a seasoned and passionate national sales manager, leading sales and team strategies for Professional Production and Broadcast solutions. His mission is to deliver innovative and customized solutions that meet the needs and expectations of customers and partners.
ROBIN MOORE, YES Network, Director, Field Operations
Moore is responsible for the hiring and managing of remote technical crews throughout the country for YES’ New York Yankees and Brooklyn Nets telecasts, as well as YES’ Yankees post-season coverage. She also coordinates mobile units and facilities.
CHARLIE MYERS, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, CTO
Myers oversees a new department inclusive of information technology, engineering, cyber security, digital development, new technologies & innovation projects, and other critical technology needs. He joined Monumental from Sirius XM.
* A.J. PONSIGLIONE, Spectrum Networks, Sr. Coordinating Producer
Ponsiglione oversees live events and special projects for Spectrum SportsNet and Spectrum SportsNet LA. Previously, he served as coordinating producer for studio programming, helping launch SportsNet in 2012, and later overseeing the launch of SportsNet LA in 2014.
ERIK RAMBERG, MediaKind, VP of Business Development and Strategic Partners
With more than 20 years of experience in the digital entertainment industry, Ramberg leads the strategy and execution of the company’s streaming business across sports, broadcasters, operators, and consumer event segments.
JOE RILEY, Chicago Sports Network, EVP, Production, Programming & Broadcast Operations
Riley oversees all aspects of content creation, live game broadcasts, studio production, and network operations. He plays a central role in shaping the vision and execution of CHSN’s multiplatform coverage of the Chicago Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox.
* MATT SANDULLI, SNY, VP, Live Game & Long-Form Production
Sandulli is responsible for event coverage of New York Mets baseball and UConn Women’s basketball, and has oversight for 3rd party productions of various college sports and minor league baseball. He also oversees long form original content.
*
FRANCESCO SCARTOZZI, Matrox Video, VP, Sales & Business Development
Scartozzi is responsible for managing the worldwide BMG Sales and Product Management teams to develop, sustain, and grow revenue. Extremely loyal, he joined Matrox in 1995 and has held various roles from applications engineer to sales director.
RYAN SCHABER, Seattle Kraken, VP, Broadcast
Schaber is responsible for overseeing all locally broadcasted games across the team’s OTA and OTT partners, also serving as the primary producer for KHN. Prior to joining the team’s front office, Schaber served as the lead producer of the Seattle Kraken on ROOT SPORTS.
* DAVID SCHAFER, MSG Networks, SVP Product, Technology & Operations
Schafer is responsible for leading product, technology, production operations, and engineering for MSG, MSGN, and the Gotham Sports App including the delivery of 350+ live games per year for the NY Knicks, NY Rangers, NY Islanders, NJ Devils, and Buffalo Sabres.
MICHAEL SCHNEIDER, FanDuel Sports Network, COO/GM, DTC
Schneider is responsible for building and managing Main Street Sports’ Direct-to-Consumer business inclusive of its corporate Marketing and Product teams. His team is responsible for Main Street’s recent, significant DTC growth.
* JON SLOBOTKIN, NBC Sports Regional Networks, SVP, Content and Live Programming
Slobotkin has served in his current role since 2017. He is responsible for all content and live production, which includes approximately 1000 games annually, and leads content and production strategy and execution across platforms.
BILL STAFFORD, Raycom Sports, VP of Engineering and Technology Operations
Stafford is an award-winning executive operations leader specializing in strategic business development and innovative technology to drive efficiency, creativity, and profitability. He is well-known for his innovative approach to broadcast facility projects, live event production, and more.
NICK STEGER, Marquee Sports Network, Executive Producer
Steger is responsible for all live game production of Cubs baseball and oversees third-party productions of various live events, including the Sky (WNBA), Stars FC (NWSL), minor league baseball, and college and high school games.
JOSH STONER, Canon, Senior Specialist, Pro Rep Team, Broadcast and Cinema Lenses
For a majority of his career at Canon, Stoner has served as a repair engineer and field support for customers on the front line of productions, and often the sidelines of major sporting events. He has served as the face of Canon for most broadcast customers.
GARRETT SULLIVAN, Game Creek Video, SVP, Production & Finance
Sullivan is responsible for the daily oversight of all company activities, new business development, client management and financial performance. He has sourced over $600 million in financing during his time at Game Creek, helping position the company as a leader in technology.
FORREST SUSSMAN, Lawo, Senior Sales Director
Joining Lawo in 2014, Sussman helped lead Lawo’s expansion into North America and, in his 10 years there, has made significant contributions to the company’s growth. Before joining Lawo he was on the Major Accounts team for Harmonic, providing OTT and Storage Solutions.
ANGIE SWINT, Texas Rangers, SVP, Broadcasting and Rangers Sports Network, Executive Producer
Swint was promoted to her current role in January 2025. She has led many of the efforts surrounding the creation and launch of Rangers Sports Network (RSN), which is responsible for production and distribution of the television broadcast of Rangers games.
PETER THORDARSON, Diversified, Principal Consultant, Advisory Services
Thordarson’s roles in engineering and operations at Microsoft, DIRECTV, FOX, and now Diversified reflect his expertise across broadcast and streaming technologies. Currently, as Diversified’s principal media consultant, Thordarson guides next-gen storytelling and technical innovations.
* MIKE WEBB, YES Network, VP, Broadcast Operations and Engineering
Webb oversees long-range planning, field and studio operations and engineering. He joined YES in 2001 as manager, broadcast operations, and was promoted to director, studio & production planning in 2005, to senior director, broadcast operations in 2011 and to his current title in 2013.
MEREDITH WOLCOTT, Tata Communications Media, Sales Director
Wolcott is a seasoned sales leader specializing in global broadcast, remote production, and media solutions. She leads strategic initiatives across sports, digital media, AR/VR, and enterprise sectors, delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions for live production and content distribution.
VISIT THE EXHIBITS!
Whether it’s a slate of games for a major sports league, a regional athletic meet, an international esports tournament, a concert festival, or a live or virtual enterprise event, The Switch has production and delivery services to suit every need.
Our Cloud Video Services platform, MIMiC, is an end-to-end offering that includes remote IP video Live Production, Clipping & Editing + Publishing and Transmission.
MIMiC – The Complete Package
JARED BOSHNACK
YES Network
Executive Producer and VP, Production
BROCK JESSEL
Space City Home Network, Broadcast Production Manager
ADAM MARTIYAN
MASN, Coordinating Producer / Live Events Producer
KENDALL BURGESS
MLB, VP of Operations, Local Media
DOUG JOHNSON
MLB, SVP and Executive Producer, Local Media
AJ PONSIGLIONE
Spectrum Networks, Senior Coordinating Producer
KEN STIVER MASN, SVP, Engineering & Network
MIKE CONNELLY Independent
JOSH JUN
NESN, VP of Content
MATT SANDULLI
SNY, VP, Game/ Long-Form Production
JASON WALSH
APMC/Victory+, Chief Content Officer, Sports
RON GRALNIK Independent
DAVID KOPPETT
Sportsnet Pittsburgh, Senior Director of Production & Operations
DAVID SCHAFER
MSG Networks, SVP, Product, Technology & Operations
MIKE WEBB
YES Network, VP, Broadcast Operations
ED HALL
Rogers Sports & Media, Executive Producer, NHL Productions
MATT KROL Altitude Sports and Entertainment, VP, General Manager, and Executive Producer
JON SLOBOTKIN
NBC Sports Regional Networks, SVP, Content and Live Programming
INNOVATIVE WORKFLOWS TO CAPTURE THE MOMENT
Transforming
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RETHINK YOUR INFRASTRUCTURE
HOME with a View.
Lawo’s HOME Apps processing platform empowers broadcasters to create efficient, dynamic media facilities with maximized infrastructure utilization. Paired with Lawo’s .edge SDI-to-IP gateway, the new HOME Intelligent Multiviewer minimizes bandwidth and CPU usage by intelligently selecting optimal downsized video proxies for layouts.
HOME Multiviewer
Agile and intelligent Multiviewer
Lawo HOME Apps Server-based Processing Platform
.edge
Hyper-density SDI/IP conversion and edge processing
Tech that Turns Moments into Memories
Power game day experiences on the world stage and your home turf—delivering innovation, speed, security and creativity to get the crowd roaring.
Broadcast Production
Secure Content Distribution
Media Supply Chain
Flexible Cloud Operations, powered by Atlas Orchestrate
