Minnesota United has reached a multi-year agreement to partner with 1500 ESPN to broadcast the team’s matches. This builds on the relationship that began last year with simulcast matches, but adds dedicated radio play-by-play and other elements.
“We believe soccer has a chance to become America's third-favorite spectator sport in the coming years,” said 1500 ESPN Program Director Brad Lane. “Based on the amazingly strong base of passionate fans the game already has here in the Twin Cities, we are excited to continue being a part of the movement! 1500 ESPN is proud to once again partner with Minnesota United in painting the audio pictures of each match on the radio and in creating unique, compelling specialty programming around the team and sport that make the personalities and players more accessible."
The agreement includes a greater emphasis on MNUFC-centric programming on the station, including two 30-minute specials hosted by play-by-play commentator Callum Williams, color analyst Kyndra de St. Aubin and sideline reporter Jamie Watson. The broadcast plan involves other assets across multiple platforms, including the potential for weekly shows, podcasts and other content.
“We’re excited not only to renew but expand our relationship with 1500 ESPN,” said MNUFC CEO Chris Wright. “There are a lot of stories to tell when it comes to this team. We’re confident that from match broadcasts to podcasts to shows, 1500 ESPN will be an ideal partner when it comes to keeping our fans informed and entertained.”
The halftime, pre- and post-match shows for each broadcast will be hosted by Bryan Piatt. Hailing from Fargo, North Dakota, Piatt has been engrained in the Twin Cities for the past six years as an anchor and reporter at KARE 11 News. Piatt also brings experience calling live sports for both television and radio, including St. Cloud State hockey and high school sports in the Twin Cities.
The radio play-by-play will be handled by veteran sports broadcaster Dan Terhaar. Terhaar grew up in New Hope, Minnesota, and studied broadcasting at Brown College. His professional career has included radio and TV play-by-play, including for the University of North Dakota, the University of Minnesota, St. Cloud State University and the NHL’s Minnesota Wild.
Minnesota United’s first match of 2018 is this Saturday, March 3 in San Jose against the Earthquakes. Catch it on 1500 ESPN and Fox Sports North with coverage beginning at 9:00 p.m. CT. Minnesota United opens its home campaign against the Chicago Fire on Saturday, March 17 at 1:00 p.m. at TCF Bank Stadium. Tickets now available at MNUFC.COM.
