LOVB Builds Professional Volleyball Ecosystem Through Youth Pipeline

Key Quotes

"You know, people just want to have a good time and I think it's really fun to get to curate kind of a shared experience and to celebrate athletes and these guys, these athletes we have are some of the best in the world and so it's really fun to get to share their stories, how they got here and just talk about what they're doing in the moment."

Courtney Thompson explains that her broadcasting approach focuses on creating an enjoyable, shared experience for viewers by highlighting the athletes' journeys and in-game performances. Thompson emphasizes the fun of celebrating world-class athletes and sharing their stories with the audience.

"And so one of the things we looked at is all right, where are these hotbeds of where there's this built-in ecosystem and fanbase where we can have this kind of a pipeline from youth to pro, not only just for the athletes but for the youth athletes that love volleyball then go to school and don't necessarily play but want to have a professional experience around the sport or be fans or whatever that might be."

Thompson details the strategic city selection for the League One Volleyball (LOVB) franchises, highlighting the importance of existing youth volleyball ecosystems and fanbases. Thompson explains that this approach aims to create a pipeline from youth participation to professional play, fostering a broader connection to the sport.

"And the other equally important side to us is community and can we create this connection of youth to pro and a place where it's just really fun to get to watch these athletes kind of work to become the best they can be and the ownership groups we've partnered with embody the same thing, we want to be great and we want to do it in a meaningful way."

Thompson discusses the dual mission of LOVB, emphasizing both athletic excellence and community building. Thompson states that the league aims to be the best in the world for athletes and fans while simultaneously fostering a connection from youth to professional levels, a value shared by its ownership groups.

"I think that the two points for me is like the the stories of these athletes that are competing and we, I think in season one felt like we were a top three league in the world and so again like you said over 20 of our athletes represented their countries in the world championships this past summer and so it's the highest level in the world and not only that they're just like incredible humans."

Thompson believes that the compelling stories of the athletes and the high level of competition are key drivers for volleyball's growth. Thompson points to the league's representation in international championships as evidence of its world-class status and the exceptional character of its players.

"I'm all in on the live action. I, yeah, I much prefer just really being present. It's one of my favorite things is that it kind of is those moments where it's like playing everything kind of melts away and you're just reacting to what's right in front of you and and getting to celebrate these athletes which is of course always fun."

Thompson expresses a strong preference for live, in-the-moment broadcasting, finding it to be a favorite aspect of her role. Thompson explains that this approach allows her to be fully present, reacting authentically to the game and celebrating the athletes' performances.

"And so for them to get to like live their lives in the U.S. and of course the international athletes as well, but to be a part of the U.S. market and the media and the social media backing that our that love has is big time for them and so a ton of credit goes to the athletes for being willing."

Thompson highlights the significant benefit for athletes to play professionally within the U.S. market, supported by LOVB's media and social media presence. Thompson credits the athletes for their willingness to engage and share their stories, which is a departure from previous career paths that often involved playing overseas.