SVG will hold the sixth-annual Sports Graphics Forum on Feb. 26 at the SVA Theatre in New York City. After record attendance and a star-studded program in 2019, the Sports Graphics Forum returns with a full day of sessions addressing the latest technological advances and creative design trends in broadcast graphics.
This year’s program is once again being spearheaded by the SVG Sports Graphics Advisory Committee and its Chair JP LoMonaco, CBS Sports, VP, On-Air Graphics and Design.
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
8:45 a.m.: Registration Opens
9:25 – 9:35 a.m.: Welcoming Remarks
9:35 – 10:20 a.m.: State of the Arts 2020: Creative-Design Trends That Are Transforming the Industry
10:20 – 10:25 a.m.: Technology Showcase Spotlight
10:25 – 10:45 a.m.: Morning Keynote: Inside the Launch of Turner Sports’ Virtual Shot Clock
10:45 – 11:30 a.m.: Networking Break
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.: Augmenting Your Reality: How AR and Virtual-Analysis Tools Have Come of Age
12:15 – 12:30 p.m.: Brainstorm Case Study: From Prototype to Production – Rapid Development in the Broadcast World
12:30 – 1:15 p.m.: Lunch
1:15 – 2:00 p.m.: The Over/Under: Graphics and Data Integration for Sports Betting
2:00 – 2:20 p.m.: Afternoon Keynote Conversation: Inside Fox Sports’ Super Bowl LIV Effort
2:20 – 2:45 p.m.: Networking Break
2:45 – 3:15 p.m.: Broadcast and Digital Collide: What the Rise of OTT Means for Graphics Design
3:15 – 4:00 p.m.: Vendor Perspectives 2020: Where Is Broadcast Graphics Technology Headed?
4:00 – 4:20 p.m.: Closing Keynote: How ESPN Reimagined its Monday Night Football Graphics Package
4:20 – 5:15 p.m.: Networking Reception
Event Location
SVA Theatre
333 W 23rd St.
New York, NY 10011
(212) 592-2980
Featured Speakers
Full Program
8:45 a.m.: Registration Opens
9:25 – 9:35 a.m.: Welcoming Remarks
Presented by:
Jason Dachman, SVG, Chief Editor and Sports Graphics Program Director (click here for audio)
JP LoMonaco, CBS Sports, VP, On-Air Graphics and Design; 2020 Graphics Committee Chair (click here for audio)
Kevin Bovet, Vizrt, VP, Head of Sports (click here for audio)
9:35 – 10:20 a.m.: State of the Arts 2020: Creative-Design Trends That Are Transforming the Industry
Top creative directors and graphics-production executives take the stage for this annual look at the most significant design trends shaping the sports-graphics market today. From inserts to animations to the scorebug and bottom line to AR and virtual elements, learn how production workflows and design strategies are evolving to create a better graphics experience for fans.
Moderator: JP LoMonaco, CBS Sports, VP, On-Air Graphics and Design; 2020 Graphics Committee Chair
Panelists:
Nick DiNapoli, |drive|, Co-Founder and Creative Director
Chad Hudson, NBC Sports, Art Director
Joss Meinert, Big Studios, Owner/Director
Tim O’Shaughnessy, ESPN, Creative Director
Jordan Shorthouse, Turner Sports, Creative Director
10:20 – 10:25 a.m.: Technology Showcase Spotlight
Sports Graphics Forum exhibitors provide a brief overview of what they have rolled out at the show.
10:25 – 10:45 a.m.: Morning Keynote: Inside the Launch of Turner Sports’ Virtual Shot Clock
Click here for audio
After more than a year of development, Turner Sports introduced an on-court virtual shot clock to tip off its 2019-2020 NBA on TNT season. Turner Sports sees the new system as a potential “1st & Ten Line for basketball” and believes putting the shot-clock graphic directly on the court will allow viewers to focus on the ball and the action on the floor, instead of constantly shifting their gaze to the scorebug in the corner of the screen. Hear how Turner Sports worked with Vizrt to develop this groundbreaking new virtual graphic and why the broadcaster believes it’s a genuine game-changer for NBA coverage.
Featuring: Craig Barry, Turner Sports, Executive Vice President, Chief Content Officer
Interviewer: Jason Dachman, SVG, Chief Editor and Sports Graphics Program Director
10:45 – 11:30 a.m.: Networking Break
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.: Augmenting Your Reality: How AR and Virtual-Analysis Tools Have Come of Age
Click here for audio
As augmented reality becomes a mainstay on live sports broadcasts, producers are looking to elevate these on-screen elements beyond just eye-candy and utilize them to better inform the viewer and tell the story on the field. Get an in-depth look at how augmented reality and virtual-analysis tools are being deployed for game coverage and in the studio by top sports-content creators and technology providers.
Moderator: Kristian Hernandez, SVG, Associate Editor
Panelists:
Patrick Armstrong, MLB Network/NHL Network, Supervising Producer, Production Technologies
Charlie Collin, ESPN Creative Services, Senior Manager, Motion Graphics and Production Enhancements
Andrew Isaacson, The Famous Group, Executive Vice President
John Murphy, BBC Sport, Creative Director, Motion
Alexis Salinas, Univision Deportes, Senior Director, Technical Creative Services
12:15 – 12:30 p.m.: Brainstorm Case Study: From Prototype to Production – Rapid Development in the Broadcast World
Our industry moves incredibly fast, so the need to create and deploy new graphics solutions on short timelines is increasingly valuable. After receiving requests from multiple golf broadcasters to create an AR graphics solution for their regular weekly tournament coverage, SMT turned to Brainstorm to quickly move from proof of concept to production-ready on-air graphics. Leveraging Brainstorm’s real-time content creation tool and decades of experience in data collection and visualization, SMT was able to create a solution that exceeded the client’s expectations in a matter of days – not months or weeks.
Presenters:
John Howell, SMT, Director of Creative Strategy
Ryan McDonald, SMT, Director of Business Development
Brad Rumler, Brainstorm, VP of Sales
12:30 – 1:15 p.m.: Lunch
1:15 – 2:00 p.m.: The Over/Under: Graphics and Data Integration for Sports Betting
Click here for audio
As the wave of legalized sports-betting begins to accelerate to more states, many broadcasters are looking to integrate betting into their live game coverage and launch betting-focused studio shows. Graphics and data integration are sure to play a vital role in the proliferation of in-game wagering and predictive-gaming telecasts in the near future. Hear from broadcasters, betting platforms, graphics vendors, and data providers on how this new frontier could impact your production workflows.
Moderator: Jason Dachman, SVG, Chief Editor and Sports Graphics Program Director
Panelists:
Alon Cohen, UFC, SVP R&D, 3027 Lead
Nick DiNapoli, |drive|, Co-Founder and Creative Director
Shawn Oleksiak, NBC Sports Philadelphia, VP and EP of Live Events
Kieren Portley, CBS Sports Digital, VP, Programming and Production
LJ Rader, Sportradar, Product Owner, Advanced Insights
2:00 – 2:20 p.m.: Afternoon Keynote Conversation: Inside Fox Sports’ Super Bowl LIV Effort
Click here for audio
Go inside Fox Sports’ massive, complex efforts to revamp its graphics package and create a one-of-kind telecast for Super LIV earlier this month.
Featuring:
Nick DiNapoli, |drive|, Co-Founder and Creative Director
Zac Fields, Fox Sports, SVP, Graphics Technology and Integration
Gary Hartley, Fox Sports Creative Services, EVP/Creative Director
Interviewed by: Ken Kerschbaumer, SVG, Co-Executive Director, Editorial Services
2:20 – 2:45 p.m.: Networking Break
2:45 – 3:15 p.m.: Broadcast and Digital Collide: What the Rise of OTT Means for Graphics Design
Click here for audio
With more eyeballs shifting from linear TV to streaming outlets, fans expect an equally high-quality viewing experience regardless of the screen on which they are watching. This tectonic shift is having a major impact on the design and integration of graphics for live sports coverage. Hear from digital leaders how they are managing this transition and the challenges that go along with creating graphics that can serve big and small screen alike.
Moderator: Brandon Costa, SVG, Director of Digital
Panelists:
Belca Bedoya-Pedyna, ESPN, Lead Designer, Motion Graphics
Sebastien Lehmann, CBS Interactive, Producer, On-Air Graphics and Branding
Deb McGuffey, Disney Streaming Services, Marketing Design Director
3:15 – 4:00 p.m.: Vendor Perspectives 2020: Where Is Broadcast Graphics Technology Headed?
Click here for audio
This year’s Sports Graphics Forum is bookended by a pair of sessions addressing the state of the industry in 2020. This closing panel features execs from top graphics-technology vendors. Learn how, as the needs of live-sports broadcasters and streaming outlets evolve, these industry leaders are adapting and finding innovative new ways to serve both the client and the fan.
Moderator: Ken Kerschbaumer, SVG, Co-Executive Director, Editorial Services
Panelists:
Paul Babb, Maxon, Head of Worldwide Marketing
Andy Blondin, Epic Games, Senior Technical Product Designer – Broadcast
Kevin Bovet, Vizrt, VP, Head of Sports
Olivier Cohen, ChyronHego, VP, Sales Enablement and Business Incubation
Kevin Dresser, Ross Video, Global Business Development Manager, XPression and Ross Virtual Solutions
4:00 – 4:20 p.m.: Closing Keynote: How ESPN Reimagined its Monday Night Football Graphics Package
Join the ESPN Creative team as they share their strategy used to create an NFL graphics package that changed the design landscape and highlights the intensity and passion found only in pro football. Get an inside look at the library of design elements that uniquely showcases NFL players and teams and learn about their innovative build strategy.
Presenter: Michael “Spike” Szykowny, ESPN Creative Services, Senior Director, Motion Graphics and Production Planning
4:20 – 5:15 p.m.: Networking Reception
Featured Speakers
Speakers
Craig Barry, Turner Sports, Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer
Craig Barry is executive vice president and chief content officer for Turner Sports. In this role, Barry oversees Turner Sports’ remote and studio productions, operations, technology, and talent services for sports content airing on TNT, TBS, and truTV including all productions in conjunction with the NBA, NCAA, MLB, and UEFA, along with all digital extensions. A 29-year Turner Sports veteran, Barry leads the creative direction of Turner Sports’ portfolio of sports properties, ensuring collaboration and integration of content and promotion across all platforms. He oversees social media content generation and distribution, along with partnerships, across all Turner Sports properties.
Barry is also the executive responsible for the oversight of Turner Sports’ business interests surrounding ELEAGUE, Turner Sports’ premium esports content and live tournament brand. In this capacity, he leads every aspect of the linear and digital productions for ELEAGUE including working closely with Turner Studios in Atlanta to set the overall vision for the live competitive gaming and premium esports content experiences. He also oversees brand image, multi-platform marketing initiatives, long-term business opportunities, and the integration of ad sales and sponsorship efforts on behalf of the endeavor.
Throughout his career, Barry has been associated with nearly every sports property in various roles. He has received numerous accolades including more than 30 Sports Emmy Awards and over 60 PromaxDBA awards. Barry is also credited with developing the Creative Services Sports Unit (CSSU) at Turner Sports, an internal creative agency that services the entire division and league partners.
CSSU develops all creative broadcast packaging, graphic design, music, post-production, web design, multimedia content, promotion, creating marketing and sponsorships, and ad sales support for sports content across TBS, TNT, truTV, NBA Digital, and NCAA.com.
Barry, a native of Southern California, played collegiate tennis while attending Menlo College in Silicon Valley. He graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in communications.
Nick DiNapoli, |drive|, Co-Founder and Creative Director
Nick DiNapoli is the creative director and co-founder of |drive| studio. A five-time Emmy Award winner, DiNapoli’s early creative career established a unique emphasis in designing and directing brands for international audiences. During the early 90s, he designed and directed network branding campaigns that spanned the globe from Scandinavia to Asia. Since founding |drive| 20 years ago, DiNapoli now oversees the design, direction, and on-air branding of some the world’s most watched sporting events for clients including Fox Sports, NBC Sports, CBS Sports, Turner Sports, Showtime Sports, the YES Network, Big Ten Network, Formula 1, and Sinclair Broadcasting, among many others. His creative direction and leadership has helped |drive| to become recognized as an international leader in design and animation for sports and network branding.
Most recently, DiNapoli lead creative teams in branding and information systems for Super Bowl LIV, the launch of the Chicago Cubs on the Marquee Sports Network, and the world broadcast of Formula 1’s 70th season.
DiNapoli attended design school at Arizona State University and is a graduate of Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Science in business management.
Zac Fields, Fox Sports, SVP, Graphics Technology and Integration
Zac Fields oversees Fox Sports’ real-time graphic development and integration, software development, and new technology. This team provides design, implementation, and support for all of the Fox Sports Media Group. Along with the daily workflows across all FSMG networks, this group provides high-end graphic design with new ways to display information for large events such as the Super Bowl, Daytona 500, MLB World Series, the U.S. Open, and the FIFA World Cup.
Gary Hartley, Fox Sports Creative Services, EVP/Creative Director
Since 1995, Gary Hartley has been responsible for conveying Fox Sports’ signature irreverent attitude through its on-screen innovation. Currently, as executive vice president of graphics and creative director, Hartley oversees the make, model, and feel for nearly every on-screen graphic, across Fox, FS1, and FS2.
A seven-time Emmy Award-winner, Hartley has been behind some of the greatest innovations for Fox Sports including its design approach for presenting real-time race information for its inaugural season of NASCAR coverage in 2001 – a style and feel that informed hardcore race fans while simultaneously enlightening casual viewers.
Hartley and his team have constructed some of the most recognizable on screen graphics including updates to its original “FOX Box,” an on screen graphic that shows the score and clock, which has become the industry standard for televising sporting events. As technology improved throughout the years, Hartley has had to balance the urge of cramming too much information into the “FOX Box” with a sleek yet informative look.
One of Hartley’s best-known creations is Cleatus, the football-playing robot, which has become an unofficial mascot and symbol of Fox Sports’ NFL coverage since its debut during the 2005-06 season.
A Michigan native, Hartley graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design from Central Michigan University in 1983.
Michael “Spike” Szykowny, ESPN Creative Services, Senior Director, Motion Graphics and Production Planning
Michael Szykowny (better known as “Spike”) has been at ESPN for 22 years and is an eight-time Emmy Award-winning senior director of motion graphics and production planning. He leads a group of over 160 designers, animators, and Vizrt Artists that create and play out graphics for the family of ESPN networks.
Patrick Armstrong, MLB Network/NHL Network, Supervising Producer, Production Technologies
Patrick Armstrong joined MLB Network full-time in 2010, wearing a number of different hats over the years before settling into his current role. He is a highly skilled story-teller within the sports industry, versed in a variety of graphics systems for both studio and remote sports production. Armstrong leads the MLB Network remote production team in their Statcast producer role; impacting their drive towards the illustration and annotation of analytic awareness. A 9-time Sports Emmy Award Winner, data visualization has become Armstrong’s forte. Utilizing Piero Sports Graphics Analysis in most recent years, he has been producing the highest of quality breakdowns and dynamic analysis for MLB, the NHL, the NFL, and the NCAA.
Prior to MLB Network, Armstrong began his career in 2004 with the Boston Red Sox in their Control Room Operations. From there he took a leap of faith driving out to California, and eventually landing with Fox Sports in Los Angeles in their Field Productions department as a coordinator. In 2007, Armstrong was hired by Reality Check Systems, working as an associate producer on NASCAR HotPass with DirecTV.
Paul Babb, Maxon, Head of Worldwide Marketing
Paul Babb is currently the head of worldwide marketing for Maxon and well known as the face of Cinema 4D, globally recognized as a 3D motion graphics, visual effects, and rendering software application. Babb spearheads efforts to bolster Maxon brand recognition and promote the company’s flagship product, Cinema 4D.
Responsible for introducing Cinema 4D to the Americas, Babb was selected to form a U.S.-based entity for Maxon to serve North and South America in January 1998. He orchestrated product bundles with Adobe After Effects and Apple Final Cut Pro. He also forged partnerships with the industry’s top production studios and design firms.
His strategic planning and expertise is widely credited for Maxon’s unprecedented growth. Today, Cinema 4D is heralded as one of the fastest growing and most widely used 3D products for digital content creation and the 3D motion graphics software tool of choice for production facilities. Babb and his team at Maxon, the Americas are credited with facilitating the emergence of 3D in the motion graphics industry.
In 2016, Babb received the Studio Daily 50 award (http://www.studiodaily.com/studio-50/) honoring a cross section of influential creatives and technologists whose leadership exemplifies innovative and creative thinking.
Belca Bedoya-Pedyna, ESPN, Lead Designer, Motion Graphics
Isabel “Belca” Bedoya-Pedyna is the lead designer within motion graphics and production planning at ESPN. She is responsible for creating the look for social media-based shows and for translating the design from the linear shows to its social platform. Bedoya-Pedyna has established the workflow for social media content production and created automation for graphics.
Bedoya-Pedyna joined ESPN in 2014. During these six years, she has worked on a vast number of shows, including: The XY with Kirk Goldsberry, SportsCenter Now, SportsCenter on Snapchat, The MMA Show, The Peoples MMA Show, College Game Day on Snapchat, First Take 2018 Rebrand, CBB, Euro 2016, Get Up 2018, ESPN eSports, Top Rank, and Monday Night Football.
Andy Blondin, Epic Games, Senior Technical Product Designer
Andy Blondin is a seasoned veteran of the broadcast industry, specializing in real-time computer graphics and augmented reality. During his tenure at Fox Sports in Los Angeles, he lead a team of real-time graphic designers that helped Fox to earn six Emmy nominations and one Emmy Award for Outstanding Studio Design/Art Direction for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015.
Blondin has a strong background in augmented reality and in blending traditional media with live computer graphics. He joined Epic Games to build the tools necessary for pioneering the next generation of television and gaming. Blondin is passionate about combining both gaming and live production to bring new and exciting technology to the broadcast space.
Kevin Bovet, Vizrt, VP, Head of Sports
As vice president, head of sports, Kevin Bovet leads the sports unit in the Americas region at Vizrt, a global company that has pioneered visual storytelling technology for over two decades. Notably, Bovet engages with rights holders to foster business development, while advising the evolution of current value propositions to meet future industry trends.
Prior to joining Vizrt, Bovet led sales and business operations for the New York Knicks’ affiliate NBA G League team, the Westchester Knicks. He executed on sales, marketing, event presentation, and game-day fan experience, while partnering with MSG Networks to optimize visibility.
Bovet has also spearheaded business development for North American Sports Group (NASG), launching the company’s agency division by commissioning clients including Nike, the Big East Conference, and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). FIBA is also where Bovet laid the groundwork for 3×3 basketball to evolve from a concept to a turn-key operation. 3×3 has now gained Olympic status and will be debuted at the 2020 Games in Tokyo this Summer.
Bovet, a Swiss native, received his undergraduate degree in economics and law, and his master’s degree in sports management and marketing from the University of Lausanne.
Alon Cohen, UFC, SVP R&D, 3027 Lead
Alon Cohen co-heads 3027, the innovation and research hub for UFC. He co-founded FightMetric in 2009 and created the original tools underpinning the statistics in mixed-martial arts. The company went on to create live stats, motion tracking, and virtual graphics as the official statistics provider to UFC, as well as a CasparCG-based portable graphics solution. It expanded these scoring and graphics capabilities to other sports and competitions including Apple, Battlebots, Arena Football, Miss Universe, and World Surf League. UFC acquired FightMetric in 2017.
Olivier Cohen, ChyronHego, VP, Sales Enablement and Business Incubation
Olivier Cohen is an experienced owner with a demonstrated history of working in the broadcast media industry. For more than a decade, he has led broadcast technology companies in all aspects of product development, marketing, sales, finance, growth, and M&A . From 2004 to 2016, Cohen developed the brand Hybrid, providing virtual set and augmented solutions to the broadcast market, as well as high performance robotics systems. In 2016, he sold Hybrid to Chyronhego. In turn, Cohen went from senior product manager for virtual solutions to senior product manager of live production to his current position as global VP of sales enablement and business incubation.
Charlie Collin, ESPN Creative Services, Senior Manager, Motion Graphics and Production Enhancements
Charlie Collin is the senior manager of the Production Enhancements team within ESPN Motion Graphics and Production Planning. His responsibilities include product development, implementing new graphics technologies within the live production environment, and providing sustainable solutions that enhance the storytelling experience. In other words, he finds ways to leverage the skills and expertise of the many outstanding designers, animators, and engineers at ESPN who are involved with real-time graphics systems.
From the early days of virtual studio production in New York to being at ESPN for the past 10 years working on AR, virtual, mixed reality, and interactive graphics projects, Collin is passionate about and grateful to be involved in the ever-changing landscape of opportunities that persist for real-time graphics executions. With a BFA from SCAD in computer animation, he combines a design background with technical expertise from the school of hard knocks.
Brandon Costa, SVG, Director of Digital
Brandon Costa covers the sports video production industry with a focus on live streaming, over-the-top (OTT), social media, and other digital distribution technologies and platforms. He also directs SVG’s internal digital strategies launching the company’s video outfit, ‘SVG On Demand,’ designing and overseeing its mobile application, ‘SVG Mobile,’ and serving as executive producer and host of The SVG Podcast. Costa serves as program director of networking events serving the SVG College and SVG Digital communities. Prior to his time at SVG, Costa spent five years producing digital content for MLB Advanced Media.
Jason Dachman, SVG, Chief Editor and Sports Graphics Program Director
Jason Dachman oversees all aspects of SVG’s North American editorial operations, including the thrice-weekly SVG Insider newsletter and SVG’s annual print publications. A member of the SVG team since 2009, Dachman also serves as program director for SVG’s RSN Summit, Sports Content Management Forum, Sports Graphics Forum, and TranSPORT event. Prior to joining SVG, he spent three years covering local sports for The Patriot Ledger in Quincy, MA and two years on the production staff of SiriusXM Satellite Radio’s The Ron & Fez Show. Dachman began his career in the Sports Information Department at Northeastern University in Boston, where he also earned a B.A. in media communications and cinema studies.
Kevin Dresser, Ross Video, Global Business Development Manager, XPression & Ross Virtual Solutions
Kevin Dresser joined Ross Video in 2015 to manage business development for XPression and Ross Virtual Solutions in the U.S. and Canada. Ross Video is committed to providing graphics solutions for sports broadcasters that fulfill many applications with high production value. Recently, Ross Video acquired Piero Sports Graphics Analysis, an award-winning sports analysis tool which uses image recognition or encoded camera heads to overlay tactical graphics on sports content. Piero brings new angles to every game, on the screen and in the studio, with visually engaging and informative effects. Last year, he was promoted to a global manager role to oversee worldwide business development for graphics solutions at Ross Video.
Prior to Ross, Dresser began his career as an associate producer at Fox Sports in Los Angeles, covering MLB, NFL, NASCAR, and College Football. During his time at Fox, he garnered four Sports Emmy awards working on remote production teams broadcasting the World Series, the MLB All-Star game, Daytona 500, and the Cotton Bowl.
In 2006, Dresser was hired by Reality Check Systems as a producer and project manager to oversee various projects with major sports networks. While at Reality Check, he led development and design teams on implementation of custom software and graphics packages for clients that included MLB Network, NHL Network, Spike Sports, DirecTV, Mid-Atlantic Sports Network, and Univision Deportes.
Kristian Hernandez, SVG, Associate Editor and Social Media Manager
Kristian Hernandez handles the day-to-day construction of the SVG Insider newsletter, oversees all social media content distribution, and covers various sports technology topics for Sports Video Group. Before joining SVG, Hernandez served as co-founder of CHC-TV, the first student-run television studio at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. While at CHC, he produced a daily sports show named On the Hill with Hernandez — covering all men’s and women’s athletics for the college. Also, Hernandez spearheaded the college’s newspaper, The Griffin, as its sports editor. He graduated with a B.A. in communications.
John Howell, SMT, Director of Creative Strategy
John Howell is a digital designer specializing in developing innovative content for live sports and entertainment. Personally and professionally, he has resided in London, Boston, Paris, Tallahassee, Amsterdam, New York City, Barcelona, and Jacksonville. Howell serves as the director of creative strategy for SMT’s Creative Studio and has to answer frequent questions about things like the rules of soccer, RFID chips, camera lenses, and how close that ball actually is to the hole.
At SMT, Howell has developed virtual set and augmented graphics solutions for The Golf Channel, UFC, Revolt TV, Inside Edition, and The Tennis Channel. He led the creation of realtime broadcast graphics for The Masters, Wimbledon, the Crossfit Games, and UFC PPV broadcasts. Focusing more on the live event guest experience, Howell has worked to blend sports data, entertainment, and social media content on large and small screens at The US Open, British Open, Players Championship, Presidents Cup, Ryder Cup, Nike US Open of Surfing, the NHL Draft, and the CrossFit Games.
Howell’s work has been featured in Step Into Design Magazine, Post Magazine, and has been recognized by the LIAA, Addys, Tellys, and an organization that gives out golden awards that are shaped like pencils. He has served as a featured speaker at the aTVfest and Apple Computer’s Worldwide Developer’s Conference.
Andrew Isaacson, The Famous Group, Executive Vice President
Andrew Isaacson is the executive vice president for The Famous Group (TFG): an award-winning fan experience company. Isaacson oversees TFG’s business development, both live action and post production divisions, as well as operations and technology for sports, brands, and live entertainment.
Isaacson has produced countless projects including content for 15 Super Bowls and seven NHL All-Star games. Clients include AT&T, Audi, Nike, Mercedes-Benz, CBS Sports, Fox, Madison Square Garden, NCAA, Wise Ventures Esports, 80+ professional teams such as the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees, and major events such as the Ryder Cup, Kentucky Derby, Houston Rodeo, Lollapalooza, and the NFL Draft.
In 2011, Isaacson played a key role to help oversee the development of Stats-In-A-Box, for the NFL, which became a turn-key software solution to publish fantasy football statistics for all 32 clubs in-stadium. Stats-In-A-Box led to the development of Vixi, the first fully 3D social media, and now patented, broadcast aggregator to display Twitter and Instagram photos on the video boards, in real-time. His most recent projects include pioneering mixed reality technology with the Baltimore Ravens and Super Bowl LIV’s “NFL 100 All-Time Team” ceremony.
A native of Wisconsin, Isaacson attended Knox College in Galesburg, IL. He graduated with degrees in education and theater before moving to Los Angeles in 2001. After landing a job as an editor, he cut together his first hype video for the Los Angeles Clippers and has never looked back.
Ken Kerschbaumer, SVG, Co-Executive Director, Editorial Services
Ken Kerschbaumer is co-executive director of editorial services for the Sports Video Group and SVG Europe. He was a co-founder of SVG along with Paul Gallo and Marty Porter in 2005 and has been writing about how sports networks and leagues use video and audio technology to deliver a quality TV experience since 1991. Kerschbaumer began his career in 1991 at Television Broadcast magazine before joining Cahners where he was founding editor of Digital Broadcasting magazine. In 2000, he joined Broadcasting & Cable magazine as senior editor of technology where he covered all aspects of broadcasting, cable, and internet content creation and distribution.
Sebastien Lehmann, CBS Interactive, Producer, On-Air Graphics and Branding
Sebastien Lehmann is a TV/digital production executive with an extensive experience leading the on-air look and feel of redesign projects. He currently oversees all of the design and execution of graphics for CBS Sports HQ.
Lehmann began his career in Paris, France in 2004, coordinating TV graphics for Eurosport, on major sporting events such as the US Open, Soccer Champions League, Athletics World Championships, and Tour de France.
He then moved on to France’s number one broadcaster, TF1, where he created and completed a complete new graphics department for teleshopping (the French equivalent of QVC).
In 2014, Lehmann moved to Miami, FL, joining BeIn Sports to produce content for the daily sports news show Xpress Xtra.
In 2017, he became part of the founding team for CBS Interactive’s Sports HQ, producing on-air graphics and spearheading branding efforts for the newly created online platform.
Lehmann is of French origin, grew up in Holland, and presently lives in Miami, FL. He is an avid sports fan, with a particular passion for soccer and triathlons, having successfully completed three Ironmans.
Joss Meinert, Big Studios, Owner/Director
An eight-time Emmy Award winner and 21-time nominee, Jocelyne Meinert has been pioneering CG animation and design since the industry’s inception in 1982, receiving several national and international awards in the first five years of her career. Bigstudios was launched in 1991, completing large scale design and animation projects for clients such as HBO, MTV, CTV, CBC, ESPN, CBS, MLB Network, NHL, NBC, etc.
Bigstudios is now one of the most established design and animation studios in North America for mograph, 2D or 3D animation, brand development, VFX, live action, and all stops in between.
Meinert continues to direct and manage large-scale projects, championing all esports endeavors; emerging technologies; the Unreal Studio; innovative, bold venue/event graphics; and original content and long form production with sister studio, Little Blackstone.
JP LoMonaco, CBS Sports, VP, On-Air Graphics and Design; 2020 Graphics Committee Chair
As VP of on-air graphics and design, JP LoMonaco oversees all of the design, production, and execution of graphics for the largest sporting events on CBS Sports Broadcast and CBS Sports Network – including the NFL, College Football, the Masters, the PGA Championship, and the March Madness Tournament.
With over 25 years of motion graphics leadership and graphics production under his belt, the Parsons School of Design graduate has accumulated a skill set that puts him at ease either animating or designing at a workstation or delivering concepts, pitching, and planning his team’s next big project in a board room. An Emmy Award winning art director, LoMonaco has lead creative teams for the likes of UPN, Fox, and CBS over the past two decades. He has also directed and mentored many great designers in that time.
As an ever-curious student of the industry, LoMonaco brings passion and excitement to every project, big or small. He always tries to stay on the forefront of what is possible while pushing himself and his team forward.
Ryan McDonald, SMT, Director of Business Development
Ryan McDonald is director of business development for SportsMedia Technology (SMT).
He has led the Golf Business Development team at SMT for the last ten (10) years. McDonald is tasked with developing concepts for broadcast, event production, and operations. He manages the SMT relationship with all four (4) of golf’s major championships, THE PLAYERS, Presidents Cup, and Ryder Cup. Prior to coming to SMT, McDonald worked with the PGA TOUR for eight years.
Deb McGuffey, Disney Streaming Services, Marketing Design Director
Deb McGuffey is an Emmy Award-winning, New York City-based creative director with over 15 years of experience in solving visual communication problems across many platforms. Her passion for sports, entertainment, and visual aesthetics has led to an exciting and well-rounded career in design.
McGuffey has lead the design, advertising, and branding for Ticketmaster; art-directed numerous studio and event broadcast packages while at ESPN; and is now at the forefront of the streaming industry as the marketing design director for Disney Streaming Services.
John Murphy, BBC Sport, Creative Director, Motion
As a creative director for BBC Sport, John Murphy leads on the branding, visual graphics, and graphical innovation for the department. His role crosses all areas of BBC Sport including: football, the Olympics, the World Cup, Wimbledon, and much more. Murphy has placed a large importance in VR and AR being used to innovate and help create a unique viewing experience which helps narrate the editorial focus of the program.
Shawn Oleksiak, NBC Sports Philadelphia, VP and EP of Live Events
Shawn Oleksiak currently oversees all aspects of live event production for NBC Sports Philadelphia and NBC Sports Philadelphia Plus. This includes games and pre/post studio coverage of Flyers hockey, 76ers basketball, Phillies baseball, and Wings lacrosse, plus college and high school sports. Among his special projects, Oleksiak most cherishes the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Parade and the Phillies 2008 World Series Championship Parade. He was promoted to VP in 2014 after serving as executive producer since 2008.
From 1999 to 2007, Oleksiak served as executive producer and senior director of broadcasting for the Philadelphia 76ers, overseeing all aspects of the team’s radio and television production. He also served on the NBA’s Broadcast Advisory Committee. Oleksiak’s career began in 1986, interning for Prism Television in Philadelphia. Upon graduating cum laude from Temple University in 1987, Oleksiak worked simultaneously for Prism, Philadelphia Park, and WCAU-TV (CBS), covering the Phillies, Flyers, and 76ers, as well as horse racing, college football, college basketball, and boxing. He produced the Sunday Night Sport’s Final and Eagles Warm-up/Wrap-up shows. In 1994, Oleksiak became producer of 76ers basketball at Prism. In 1997, he was part of Comcast SportsNet’s launch, producing 76ers telecasts and Daily News Live.
Oleksiak’s 33-year career spans the medium: intern, editor, cameraman, writer, studio producer, event producer, director, reporter, and executive producer. He has received over 40 Mid-Atlantic Emmy Nominations and captured ten Emmy Awards. Oleksiak was honored with a Philadelphia Addy Award and is a member of Temple University’s School of Communications and Theater Hall of Fame.
Tim O'Shaughnessy, ESPN, Creative Director
Timothy O’Shaughnessy is the creative director of college sports at ESPN and has crafted the creative behind many ESPN properties. He is primarily responsible for guiding teams of creatives through large-scale animation and insert design projects. His primary interests rest in finding ways to reinvent the traditional permutations of sports television.
In his 14 years at ESPN, O’Shaughnessy has garnered numerous Emmy nominations and several Promax BDA awards. Noteworthy projects include college football on ESPN/ABC, college basketball on ESPN, NBA on ESPN/ABC, World Cup 2010 and 2014, Euro 2012 and 2016, Outside the Lines, Olbermann, and Mike & Mike 2016. Upcoming projects include rebranding/repackaging the SEC network and starting up the aesthetic of the ACC network.
Before coming to ESPN, O’Shaughnessy worked at Ghostmilk Studios in Toronto, where he designed show title sequences. He received a B.S. in psychology from Binghamton University and an M.F.A. in design from The Rochester Institute of Technology.
Kieren Portley, CBS Sports Digital, VP, Programming and Production
LJ Rader, Sportradar, Product Owner, Advanced Insights
LJ Rader is the product owner of advanced insights at Sportradar, responsible for building insights that leverage various data sets, including historic and live boxscore, betting, and player tracking data. He designs and develops feeds and products for both media companies (including broadcasters) and bookmakers. Previously, he was a product manager at DraftKings. Prior to DraftKings, Rader held a number of roles at NBC Sports and Olympics. He was an NFL writer for Rotoworld.com, digital producer for the London Olympics, and mobile product specialist for NBC Sports. Rader was recognized with an Emmy Award for his work on the Sochi Olympics.
Brad Rumler, Brainstorm, VP of Sales
Brad Rumler is VP of sales for Brainstorm, a global company creating real-time graphics services and solutions, including virtual studios and augmented reality graphics for broadcasters for over 25 years. Rumler’s team works with broadcasters and content providers in the U.S. and Canada to provide solutions to increase production value and provide new narrative possibilities for audience engagement while saving on production costs.
Before joining Brainstorm in 2013, Rumler held various positions in Australia and the U.S. for two decades both in television production and as a technical sales leader. He was a business developer, trainer, and strategic planner, specializing in innovative software, hardware, and broadcast solutions, from disruptive start ups to innovative corporations like Apple and AT&T.
Alexis Salinas, Univision Deportes, Senior Director, Technical Creative Services
Alexis Salinas serves as senior director of technical creative services for Univision, the leading media company serving Hispanic America.
Salinas is responsible for developing, producing, and deploying real-time graphics and graphic content for TUDN, Univision’s leading sports media brand. His additional responsibilities include overseeing all graphics functional groups and processes with the ultimate aim of bolstering the TUDN brand on-air and enhancing the production’s ability to tell compelling stories and engage with viewers. Salinas is also charged with creating the bridge between the production, production operations, and engineering teams for the sports graphics pipeline operation, as well as project manager for technology projects.
During his tenure at Univision, Salinas has served as manager of graphics management technology, technical manager, VizRT programmer, and senior 3D animator. Prior to joining Univision in 1996, he worked as a CGI director at EDEFX Group, where he was accountable for the operations, graphics systems, and network management and administration for the computer graphics department. He also worked as a 3D animator at Canal Uno Producciones in his native Venezuela.
Salinas earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Universidad Simón Bolívar in Venezuela. He has also been a certified project management professional since 2012.
Jordan Shorthouse, Turner Sports, Creative Director
Jordan Shorthouse is a three-time Emmy award-winning creative director for Turner Sports where he oversees the sports print marketing department and on-air broadcast graphics departments that support all sports telecasts. He is currently in his 22nd year with Turner Sports.
While at Turner, Shorthouse has overseen award-winning print and on-air campaigns for Turner’s tent-pole events including NBA on TNT (regular season, playoffs, and All-Star), MLB on TBS (regular season and postseason), the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, ELEAGUE, UEFA, and the PGA Championship. Some of his work includes on-air graphics packaging, print campaigns, and location takeovers for Turner Sports Roadshow Activations. Most recently, Shorthouse oversaw on-site and broadcast graphics for NBA All-Star Weekend in Chicago. This included onsite signage, desk and set design, and animation packaging to tie it all together.
Shorthouse was recently named one of CableFax’s Most Influential Minorities in cable. Shorthouse studied graphic design at Georgia State University.
Keynote Speakers
Craig Barry, Turner Sports, Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer
Craig Barry is executive vice president and chief content officer for Turner Sports. In this role, Barry oversees Turner Sports’ remote and studio productions, operations, technology, and talent services for sports content airing on TNT, TBS, and truTV including all productions in conjunction with the NBA, NCAA, MLB, and UEFA, along with all digital extensions. A 29-year Turner Sports veteran, Barry leads the creative direction of Turner Sports’ portfolio of sports properties, ensuring collaboration and integration of content and promotion across all platforms. He oversees social media content generation and distribution, along with partnerships, across all Turner Sports properties.
Barry is also the executive responsible for the oversight of Turner Sports’ business interests surrounding ELEAGUE, Turner Sports’ premium esports content and live tournament brand. In this capacity, he leads every aspect of the linear and digital productions for ELEAGUE including working closely with Turner Studios in Atlanta to set the overall vision for the live competitive gaming and premium esports content experiences. He also oversees brand image, multi-platform marketing initiatives, long-term business opportunities, and the integration of ad sales and sponsorship efforts on behalf of the endeavor.
Throughout his career, Barry has been associated with nearly every sports property in various roles. He has received numerous accolades including more than 30 Sports Emmy Awards and over 60 PromaxDBA awards. Barry is also credited with developing the Creative Services Sports Unit (CSSU) at Turner Sports, an internal creative agency that services the entire division and league partners.
CSSU develops all creative broadcast packaging, graphic design, music, post-production, web design, multimedia content, promotion, creating marketing and sponsorships, and ad sales support for sports content across TBS, TNT, truTV, NBA Digital, and NCAA.com.
Barry, a native of Southern California, played collegiate tennis while attending Menlo College in Silicon Valley. He graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in communications.
Nick DiNapoli, |drive|, Co-Founder and Creative Director
Nick DiNapoli is the creative director and co-founder of |drive| studio. A five-time Emmy Award winner, DiNapoli’s early creative career established a unique emphasis in designing and directing brands for international audiences. During the early 90s, he designed and directed network branding campaigns that spanned the globe from Scandinavia to Asia. Since founding |drive| 20 years ago, DiNapoli now oversees the design, direction, and on-air branding of some the world’s most watched sporting events for clients including Fox Sports, NBC Sports, CBS Sports, Turner Sports, Showtime Sports, the YES Network, Big Ten Network, Formula 1, and Sinclair Broadcasting, among many others. His creative direction and leadership has helped |drive| to become recognized as an international leader in design and animation for sports and network branding.
Most recently, DiNapoli lead creative teams in branding and information systems for Super Bowl LIV, the launch of the Chicago Cubs on the Marquee Sports Network, and the world broadcast of Formula 1’s 70th season.
DiNapoli attended design school at Arizona State University and is a graduate of Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Science in business management.
Zac Fields, Fox Sports, SVP, Graphics Technology and Integration
Zac Fields oversees Fox Sports’ real-time graphic development and integration, software development, and new technology. This team provides design, implementation, and support for all of the Fox Sports Media Group. Along with the daily workflows across all FSMG networks, this group provides high-end graphic design with new ways to display information for large events such as the Super Bowl, Daytona 500, MLB World Series, the U.S. Open, and the FIFA World Cup.
Gary Hartley, Fox Sports Creative Services, EVP/Creative Director
Since 1995, Gary Hartley has been responsible for conveying Fox Sports’ signature irreverent attitude through its on-screen innovation. Currently, as executive vice president of graphics and creative director, Hartley oversees the make, model, and feel for nearly every on-screen graphic, across Fox, FS1, and FS2.
A seven-time Emmy Award-winner, Hartley has been behind some of the greatest innovations for Fox Sports including its design approach for presenting real-time race information for its inaugural season of NASCAR coverage in 2001 – a style and feel that informed hardcore race fans while simultaneously enlightening casual viewers.
Hartley and his team have constructed some of the most recognizable on screen graphics including updates to its original “FOX Box,” an on screen graphic that shows the score and clock, which has become the industry standard for televising sporting events. As technology improved throughout the years, Hartley has had to balance the urge of cramming too much information into the “FOX Box” with a sleek yet informative look.
One of Hartley’s best-known creations is Cleatus, the football-playing robot, which has become an unofficial mascot and symbol of Fox Sports’ NFL coverage since its debut during the 2005-06 season.
A Michigan native, Hartley graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design from Central Michigan University in 1983.
Michael “Spike” Szykowny, ESPN Creative Services, Senior Director, Motion Graphics and Production Planning
Michael Szykowny (better known as “Spike”) has been at ESPN for 22 years and is an eight-time Emmy Award-winning senior director of motion graphics and production planning. He leads a group of over 160 designers, animators, and Vizrt Artists that create and play out graphics for the family of ESPN networks.
Patrick Armstrong, MLB Network/NHL Network, Supervising Producer, Production Technologies
Patrick Armstrong joined MLB Network full-time in 2010, wearing a number of different hats over the years before settling into his current role. He is a highly skilled story-teller within the sports industry, versed in a variety of graphics systems for both studio and remote sports production. Armstrong leads the MLB Network remote production team in their Statcast producer role; impacting their drive towards the illustration and annotation of analytic awareness. A 9-time Sports Emmy Award Winner, data visualization has become Armstrong’s forte. Utilizing Piero Sports Graphics Analysis in most recent years, he has been producing the highest of quality breakdowns and dynamic analysis for MLB, the NHL, the NFL, and the NCAA.
Prior to MLB Network, Armstrong began his career in 2004 with the Boston Red Sox in their Control Room Operations. From there he took a leap of faith driving out to California, and eventually landing with Fox Sports in Los Angeles in their Field Productions department as a coordinator. In 2007, Armstrong was hired by Reality Check Systems, working as an associate producer on NASCAR HotPass with DirecTV.
Paul Babb, Maxon, Head of Worldwide Marketing
Paul Babb is currently the head of worldwide marketing for Maxon and well known as the face of Cinema 4D, globally recognized as a 3D motion graphics, visual effects, and rendering software application. Babb spearheads efforts to bolster Maxon brand recognition and promote the company’s flagship product, Cinema 4D.
Responsible for introducing Cinema 4D to the Americas, Babb was selected to form a U.S.-based entity for Maxon to serve North and South America in January 1998. He orchestrated product bundles with Adobe After Effects and Apple Final Cut Pro. He also forged partnerships with the industry’s top production studios and design firms.
His strategic planning and expertise is widely credited for Maxon’s unprecedented growth. Today, Cinema 4D is heralded as one of the fastest growing and most widely used 3D products for digital content creation and the 3D motion graphics software tool of choice for production facilities. Babb and his team at Maxon, the Americas are credited with facilitating the emergence of 3D in the motion graphics industry.
In 2016, Babb received the Studio Daily 50 award (http://www.studiodaily.com/studio-50/) honoring a cross section of influential creatives and technologists whose leadership exemplifies innovative and creative thinking.
Belca Bedoya-Pedyna, ESPN, Lead Designer, Motion Graphics
Isabel “Belca” Bedoya-Pedyna is the lead designer within motion graphics and production planning at ESPN. She is responsible for creating the look for social media-based shows and for translating the design from the linear shows to its social platform. Bedoya-Pedyna has established the workflow for social media content production and created automation for graphics.
Bedoya-Pedyna joined ESPN in 2014. During these six years, she has worked on a vast number of shows, including: The XY with Kirk Goldsberry, SportsCenter Now, SportsCenter on Snapchat, The MMA Show, The Peoples MMA Show, College Game Day on Snapchat, First Take 2018 Rebrand, CBB, Euro 2016, Get Up 2018, ESPN eSports, Top Rank, and Monday Night Football.
Andy Blondin, Epic Games, Senior Technical Product Designer
Andy Blondin is a seasoned veteran of the broadcast industry, specializing in real-time computer graphics and augmented reality. During his tenure at Fox Sports in Los Angeles, he lead a team of real-time graphic designers that helped Fox to earn six Emmy nominations and one Emmy Award for Outstanding Studio Design/Art Direction for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015.
Blondin has a strong background in augmented reality and in blending traditional media with live computer graphics. He joined Epic Games to build the tools necessary for pioneering the next generation of television and gaming. Blondin is passionate about combining both gaming and live production to bring new and exciting technology to the broadcast space.
Kevin Bovet, Vizrt, VP, Head of Sports
As vice president, head of sports, Kevin Bovet leads the sports unit in the Americas region at Vizrt, a global company that has pioneered visual storytelling technology for over two decades. Notably, Bovet engages with rights holders to foster business development, while advising the evolution of current value propositions to meet future industry trends.
Prior to joining Vizrt, Bovet led sales and business operations for the New York Knicks’ affiliate NBA G League team, the Westchester Knicks. He executed on sales, marketing, event presentation, and game-day fan experience, while partnering with MSG Networks to optimize visibility.
Bovet has also spearheaded business development for North American Sports Group (NASG), launching the company’s agency division by commissioning clients including Nike, the Big East Conference, and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). FIBA is also where Bovet laid the groundwork for 3×3 basketball to evolve from a concept to a turn-key operation. 3×3 has now gained Olympic status and will be debuted at the 2020 Games in Tokyo this Summer.
Bovet, a Swiss native, received his undergraduate degree in economics and law, and his master’s degree in sports management and marketing from the University of Lausanne.
Alon Cohen, UFC, SVP R&D, 3027 Lead
Alon Cohen co-heads 3027, the innovation and research hub for UFC. He co-founded FightMetric in 2009 and created the original tools underpinning the statistics in mixed-martial arts. The company went on to create live stats, motion tracking, and virtual graphics as the official statistics provider to UFC, as well as a CasparCG-based portable graphics solution. It expanded these scoring and graphics capabilities to other sports and competitions including Apple, Battlebots, Arena Football, Miss Universe, and World Surf League. UFC acquired FightMetric in 2017.
Olivier Cohen, ChyronHego, VP, Sales Enablement and Business Incubation
Olivier Cohen is an experienced owner with a demonstrated history of working in the broadcast media industry. For more than a decade, he has led broadcast technology companies in all aspects of product development, marketing, sales, finance, growth, and M&A . From 2004 to 2016, Cohen developed the brand Hybrid, providing virtual set and augmented solutions to the broadcast market, as well as high performance robotics systems. In 2016, he sold Hybrid to Chyronhego. In turn, Cohen went from senior product manager for virtual solutions to senior product manager of live production to his current position as global VP of sales enablement and business incubation.
Charlie Collin, ESPN Creative Services, Senior Manager, Motion Graphics and Production Enhancements
Charlie Collin is the senior manager of the Production Enhancements team within ESPN Motion Graphics and Production Planning. His responsibilities include product development, implementing new graphics technologies within the live production environment, and providing sustainable solutions that enhance the storytelling experience. In other words, he finds ways to leverage the skills and expertise of the many outstanding designers, animators, and engineers at ESPN who are involved with real-time graphics systems.
From the early days of virtual studio production in New York to being at ESPN for the past 10 years working on AR, virtual, mixed reality, and interactive graphics projects, Collin is passionate about and grateful to be involved in the ever-changing landscape of opportunities that persist for real-time graphics executions. With a BFA from SCAD in computer animation, he combines a design background with technical expertise from the school of hard knocks.
Brandon Costa, SVG, Director of Digital
Brandon Costa covers the sports video production industry with a focus on live streaming, over-the-top (OTT), social media, and other digital distribution technologies and platforms. He also directs SVG’s internal digital strategies launching the company’s video outfit, ‘SVG On Demand,’ designing and overseeing its mobile application, ‘SVG Mobile,’ and serving as executive producer and host of The SVG Podcast. Costa serves as program director of networking events serving the SVG College and SVG Digital communities. Prior to his time at SVG, Costa spent five years producing digital content for MLB Advanced Media.
Jason Dachman, SVG, Chief Editor and Sports Graphics Program Director
Jason Dachman oversees all aspects of SVG’s North American editorial operations, including the thrice-weekly SVG Insider newsletter and SVG’s annual print publications. A member of the SVG team since 2009, Dachman also serves as program director for SVG’s RSN Summit, Sports Content Management Forum, Sports Graphics Forum, and TranSPORT event. Prior to joining SVG, he spent three years covering local sports for The Patriot Ledger in Quincy, MA and two years on the production staff of SiriusXM Satellite Radio’s The Ron & Fez Show. Dachman began his career in the Sports Information Department at Northeastern University in Boston, where he also earned a B.A. in media communications and cinema studies.
Kevin Dresser, Ross Video, Global Business Development Manager, XPression & Ross Virtual Solutions
Kevin Dresser joined Ross Video in 2015 to manage business development for XPression and Ross Virtual Solutions in the U.S. and Canada. Ross Video is committed to providing graphics solutions for sports broadcasters that fulfill many applications with high production value. Recently, Ross Video acquired Piero Sports Graphics Analysis, an award-winning sports analysis tool which uses image recognition or encoded camera heads to overlay tactical graphics on sports content. Piero brings new angles to every game, on the screen and in the studio, with visually engaging and informative effects. Last year, he was promoted to a global manager role to oversee worldwide business development for graphics solutions at Ross Video.
Prior to Ross, Dresser began his career as an associate producer at Fox Sports in Los Angeles, covering MLB, NFL, NASCAR, and College Football. During his time at Fox, he garnered four Sports Emmy awards working on remote production teams broadcasting the World Series, the MLB All-Star game, Daytona 500, and the Cotton Bowl.
In 2006, Dresser was hired by Reality Check Systems as a producer and project manager to oversee various projects with major sports networks. While at Reality Check, he led development and design teams on implementation of custom software and graphics packages for clients that included MLB Network, NHL Network, Spike Sports, DirecTV, Mid-Atlantic Sports Network, and Univision Deportes.
Kristian Hernandez, SVG, Associate Editor and Social Media Manager
Kristian Hernandez handles the day-to-day construction of the SVG Insider newsletter, oversees all social media content distribution, and covers various sports technology topics for Sports Video Group. Before joining SVG, Hernandez served as co-founder of CHC-TV, the first student-run television studio at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. While at CHC, he produced a daily sports show named On the Hill with Hernandez — covering all men’s and women’s athletics for the college. Also, Hernandez spearheaded the college’s newspaper, The Griffin, as its sports editor. He graduated with a B.A. in communications.
John Howell, SMT, Director of Creative Strategy
John Howell is a digital designer specializing in developing innovative content for live sports and entertainment. Personally and professionally, he has resided in London, Boston, Paris, Tallahassee, Amsterdam, New York City, Barcelona, and Jacksonville. Howell serves as the director of creative strategy for SMT’s Creative Studio and has to answer frequent questions about things like the rules of soccer, RFID chips, camera lenses, and how close that ball actually is to the hole.
At SMT, Howell has developed virtual set and augmented graphics solutions for The Golf Channel, UFC, Revolt TV, Inside Edition, and The Tennis Channel. He led the creation of realtime broadcast graphics for The Masters, Wimbledon, the Crossfit Games, and UFC PPV broadcasts. Focusing more on the live event guest experience, Howell has worked to blend sports data, entertainment, and social media content on large and small screens at The US Open, British Open, Players Championship, Presidents Cup, Ryder Cup, Nike US Open of Surfing, the NHL Draft, and the CrossFit Games.
Howell’s work has been featured in Step Into Design Magazine, Post Magazine, and has been recognized by the LIAA, Addys, Tellys, and an organization that gives out golden awards that are shaped like pencils. He has served as a featured speaker at the aTVfest and Apple Computer’s Worldwide Developer’s Conference.
Andrew Isaacson, The Famous Group, Executive Vice President
Andrew Isaacson is the executive vice president for The Famous Group (TFG): an award-winning fan experience company. Isaacson oversees TFG’s business development, both live action and post production divisions, as well as operations and technology for sports, brands, and live entertainment.
Isaacson has produced countless projects including content for 15 Super Bowls and seven NHL All-Star games. Clients include AT&T, Audi, Nike, Mercedes-Benz, CBS Sports, Fox, Madison Square Garden, NCAA, Wise Ventures Esports, 80+ professional teams such as the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees, and major events such as the Ryder Cup, Kentucky Derby, Houston Rodeo, Lollapalooza, and the NFL Draft.
In 2011, Isaacson played a key role to help oversee the development of Stats-In-A-Box, for the NFL, which became a turn-key software solution to publish fantasy football statistics for all 32 clubs in-stadium. Stats-In-A-Box led to the development of Vixi, the first fully 3D social media, and now patented, broadcast aggregator to display Twitter and Instagram photos on the video boards, in real-time. His most recent projects include pioneering mixed reality technology with the Baltimore Ravens and Super Bowl LIV’s “NFL 100 All-Time Team” ceremony.
A native of Wisconsin, Isaacson attended Knox College in Galesburg, IL. He graduated with degrees in education and theater before moving to Los Angeles in 2001. After landing a job as an editor, he cut together his first hype video for the Los Angeles Clippers and has never looked back.
Ken Kerschbaumer, SVG, Co-Executive Director, Editorial Services
Ken Kerschbaumer is co-executive director of editorial services for the Sports Video Group and SVG Europe. He was a co-founder of SVG along with Paul Gallo and Marty Porter in 2005 and has been writing about how sports networks and leagues use video and audio technology to deliver a quality TV experience since 1991. Kerschbaumer began his career in 1991 at Television Broadcast magazine before joining Cahners where he was founding editor of Digital Broadcasting magazine. In 2000, he joined Broadcasting & Cable magazine as senior editor of technology where he covered all aspects of broadcasting, cable, and internet content creation and distribution.
Sebastien Lehmann, CBS Interactive, Producer, On-Air Graphics and Branding
Sebastien Lehmann is a TV/digital production executive with an extensive experience leading the on-air look and feel of redesign projects. He currently oversees all of the design and execution of graphics for CBS Sports HQ.
Lehmann began his career in Paris, France in 2004, coordinating TV graphics for Eurosport, on major sporting events such as the US Open, Soccer Champions League, Athletics World Championships, and Tour de France.
He then moved on to France’s number one broadcaster, TF1, where he created and completed a complete new graphics department for teleshopping (the French equivalent of QVC).
In 2014, Lehmann moved to Miami, FL, joining BeIn Sports to produce content for the daily sports news show Xpress Xtra.
In 2017, he became part of the founding team for CBS Interactive’s Sports HQ, producing on-air graphics and spearheading branding efforts for the newly created online platform.
Lehmann is of French origin, grew up in Holland, and presently lives in Miami, FL. He is an avid sports fan, with a particular passion for soccer and triathlons, having successfully completed three Ironmans.
Joss Meinert, Big Studios, Owner/Director
An eight-time Emmy Award winner and 21-time nominee, Jocelyne Meinert has been pioneering CG animation and design since the industry’s inception in 1982, receiving several national and international awards in the first five years of her career. Bigstudios was launched in 1991, completing large scale design and animation projects for clients such as HBO, MTV, CTV, CBC, ESPN, CBS, MLB Network, NHL, NBC, etc.
Bigstudios is now one of the most established design and animation studios in North America for mograph, 2D or 3D animation, brand development, VFX, live action, and all stops in between.
Meinert continues to direct and manage large-scale projects, championing all esports endeavors; emerging technologies; the Unreal Studio; innovative, bold venue/event graphics; and original content and long form production with sister studio, Little Blackstone.
JP LoMonaco, CBS Sports, VP, On-Air Graphics and Design; 2020 Graphics Committee Chair
As VP of on-air graphics and design, JP LoMonaco oversees all of the design, production, and execution of graphics for the largest sporting events on CBS Sports Broadcast and CBS Sports Network – including the NFL, College Football, the Masters, the PGA Championship, and the March Madness Tournament.
With over 25 years of motion graphics leadership and graphics production under his belt, the Parsons School of Design graduate has accumulated a skill set that puts him at ease either animating or designing at a workstation or delivering concepts, pitching, and planning his team’s next big project in a board room. An Emmy Award winning art director, LoMonaco has lead creative teams for the likes of UPN, Fox, and CBS over the past two decades. He has also directed and mentored many great designers in that time.
As an ever-curious student of the industry, LoMonaco brings passion and excitement to every project, big or small. He always tries to stay on the forefront of what is possible while pushing himself and his team forward.
Ryan McDonald, SMT, Director of Business Development
Ryan McDonald is director of business development for SportsMedia Technology (SMT).
He has led the Golf Business Development team at SMT for the last ten (10) years. McDonald is tasked with developing concepts for broadcast, event production, and operations. He manages the SMT relationship with all four (4) of golf’s major championships, THE PLAYERS, Presidents Cup, and Ryder Cup. Prior to coming to SMT, McDonald worked with the PGA TOUR for eight years.
Deb McGuffey, Disney Streaming Services, Marketing Design Director
Deb McGuffey is an Emmy Award-winning, New York City-based creative director with over 15 years of experience in solving visual communication problems across many platforms. Her passion for sports, entertainment, and visual aesthetics has led to an exciting and well-rounded career in design.
McGuffey has lead the design, advertising, and branding for Ticketmaster; art-directed numerous studio and event broadcast packages while at ESPN; and is now at the forefront of the streaming industry as the marketing design director for Disney Streaming Services.
John Murphy, BBC Sport, Creative Director, Motion
As a creative director for BBC Sport, John Murphy leads on the branding, visual graphics, and graphical innovation for the department. His role crosses all areas of BBC Sport including: football, the Olympics, the World Cup, Wimbledon, and much more. Murphy has placed a large importance in VR and AR being used to innovate and help create a unique viewing experience which helps narrate the editorial focus of the program.
Shawn Oleksiak, NBC Sports Philadelphia, VP and EP of Live Events
Shawn Oleksiak currently oversees all aspects of live event production for NBC Sports Philadelphia and NBC Sports Philadelphia Plus. This includes games and pre/post studio coverage of Flyers hockey, 76ers basketball, Phillies baseball, and Wings lacrosse, plus college and high school sports. Among his special projects, Oleksiak most cherishes the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Parade and the Phillies 2008 World Series Championship Parade. He was promoted to VP in 2014 after serving as executive producer since 2008.
From 1999 to 2007, Oleksiak served as executive producer and senior director of broadcasting for the Philadelphia 76ers, overseeing all aspects of the team’s radio and television production. He also served on the NBA’s Broadcast Advisory Committee. Oleksiak’s career began in 1986, interning for Prism Television in Philadelphia. Upon graduating cum laude from Temple University in 1987, Oleksiak worked simultaneously for Prism, Philadelphia Park, and WCAU-TV (CBS), covering the Phillies, Flyers, and 76ers, as well as horse racing, college football, college basketball, and boxing. He produced the Sunday Night Sport’s Final and Eagles Warm-up/Wrap-up shows. In 1994, Oleksiak became producer of 76ers basketball at Prism. In 1997, he was part of Comcast SportsNet’s launch, producing 76ers telecasts and Daily News Live.
Oleksiak’s 33-year career spans the medium: intern, editor, cameraman, writer, studio producer, event producer, director, reporter, and executive producer. He has received over 40 Mid-Atlantic Emmy Nominations and captured ten Emmy Awards. Oleksiak was honored with a Philadelphia Addy Award and is a member of Temple University’s School of Communications and Theater Hall of Fame.
Tim O'Shaughnessy, ESPN, Creative Director
Timothy O’Shaughnessy is the creative director of college sports at ESPN and has crafted the creative behind many ESPN properties. He is primarily responsible for guiding teams of creatives through large-scale animation and insert design projects. His primary interests rest in finding ways to reinvent the traditional permutations of sports television.
In his 14 years at ESPN, O’Shaughnessy has garnered numerous Emmy nominations and several Promax BDA awards. Noteworthy projects include college football on ESPN/ABC, college basketball on ESPN, NBA on ESPN/ABC, World Cup 2010 and 2014, Euro 2012 and 2016, Outside the Lines, Olbermann, and Mike & Mike 2016. Upcoming projects include rebranding/repackaging the SEC network and starting up the aesthetic of the ACC network.
Before coming to ESPN, O’Shaughnessy worked at Ghostmilk Studios in Toronto, where he designed show title sequences. He received a B.S. in psychology from Binghamton University and an M.F.A. in design from The Rochester Institute of Technology.
Kieren Portley, CBS Sports Digital, VP, Programming and Production
LJ Rader, Sportradar, Product Owner, Advanced Insights
LJ Rader is the product owner of advanced insights at Sportradar, responsible for building insights that leverage various data sets, including historic and live boxscore, betting, and player tracking data. He designs and develops feeds and products for both media companies (including broadcasters) and bookmakers. Previously, he was a product manager at DraftKings. Prior to DraftKings, Rader held a number of roles at NBC Sports and Olympics. He was an NFL writer for Rotoworld.com, digital producer for the London Olympics, and mobile product specialist for NBC Sports. Rader was recognized with an Emmy Award for his work on the Sochi Olympics.
Brad Rumler, Brainstorm, VP of Sales
Brad Rumler is VP of sales for Brainstorm, a global company creating real-time graphics services and solutions, including virtual studios and augmented reality graphics for broadcasters for over 25 years. Rumler’s team works with broadcasters and content providers in the U.S. and Canada to provide solutions to increase production value and provide new narrative possibilities for audience engagement while saving on production costs.
Before joining Brainstorm in 2013, Rumler held various positions in Australia and the U.S. for two decades both in television production and as a technical sales leader. He was a business developer, trainer, and strategic planner, specializing in innovative software, hardware, and broadcast solutions, from disruptive start ups to innovative corporations like Apple and AT&T.
Alexis Salinas, Univision Deportes, Senior Director, Technical Creative Services
Alexis Salinas serves as senior director of technical creative services for Univision, the leading media company serving Hispanic America.
Salinas is responsible for developing, producing, and deploying real-time graphics and graphic content for TUDN, Univision’s leading sports media brand. His additional responsibilities include overseeing all graphics functional groups and processes with the ultimate aim of bolstering the TUDN brand on-air and enhancing the production’s ability to tell compelling stories and engage with viewers. Salinas is also charged with creating the bridge between the production, production operations, and engineering teams for the sports graphics pipeline operation, as well as project manager for technology projects.
During his tenure at Univision, Salinas has served as manager of graphics management technology, technical manager, VizRT programmer, and senior 3D animator. Prior to joining Univision in 1996, he worked as a CGI director at EDEFX Group, where he was accountable for the operations, graphics systems, and network management and administration for the computer graphics department. He also worked as a 3D animator at Canal Uno Producciones in his native Venezuela.
Salinas earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Universidad Simón Bolívar in Venezuela. He has also been a certified project management professional since 2012.
Jordan Shorthouse, Turner Sports, Creative Director
Jordan Shorthouse is a three-time Emmy award-winning creative director for Turner Sports where he oversees the sports print marketing department and on-air broadcast graphics departments that support all sports telecasts. He is currently in his 22nd year with Turner Sports.
While at Turner, Shorthouse has overseen award-winning print and on-air campaigns for Turner’s tent-pole events including NBA on TNT (regular season, playoffs, and All-Star), MLB on TBS (regular season and postseason), the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, ELEAGUE, UEFA, and the PGA Championship. Some of his work includes on-air graphics packaging, print campaigns, and location takeovers for Turner Sports Roadshow Activations. Most recently, Shorthouse oversaw on-site and broadcast graphics for NBA All-Star Weekend in Chicago. This included onsite signage, desk and set design, and animation packaging to tie it all together.
Shorthouse was recently named one of CableFax’s Most Influential Minorities in cable. Shorthouse studied graphic design at Georgia State University.
Press
SVG On Demand: ESPN’s Tim O’Shaughnessy Dissects Current Trends in College Sports Graphics
Sports Graphics Forum: How Graphics Design Adapts in the Age of OTT
SVG On Demand: CBS Sports’ JP LoMonaco on a Wild Year of Innovation in Sports Graphics
2020 SVG Sports Graphics Forum Photo Gallery
SVG On Demand: Vizrt’s Pino Barile Previews New Graphics Lineup, Upcoming Plans for NAB 2020
2020 SVG Sports Graphics Forum Photo Gallery
Sports Graphics Forum: AR Enhances Virtually Every Aspect of a Production
SVG On Demand: Turner Sports’ Jordan Shorthouse on 2D-Graphics Execution During NBA All-Star Weekend
SVG On Demand: ESPN’s Belca Bedoya-Pedyna on Adapting Linear Programming to OTT Platforms
SVG On Demand: Mike ‘Spike’ Szykowny on How ESPN Reimagined Its NFL Graphics Package
SVG Sports Graphics Forum Celebrates On-Air Design, Execution Over the Past Year
Featured Speakers
Tabletop Exhibit Resources
Please note: The following resources are for current SVG sponsors of the Sports Graphics Forum. SVG sponsors interested in a tabletop exhibit at this event, please contact our sponsorship team for more information:
Rob Payne – [email protected]
Andrew Gabel – [email protected]
Tabletop Exhibit Resources
Important Deadlines
Feb. 18 – Online Registration Closes
Tabletop Logistics
Tabletop Logistics includes setup/breakdown and exhibit hours, power details, and inbound/ outbound shipping information.
Logistics PDF – Download PDF Here
Print Program Advertisement Specs
If unsure of AD size or inclusion, please contact Katie Champion at [email protected] to confirm.
Choose Size Below –
SPREAD – Download PDF Here
FULL PAGE – Download PDF Here
HALF PAGE – Download PDF Here
Event Graphics
Personalized sponsor graphics available upon request. Please contact Katie Champion at [email protected]
Event Logo
Event Graphic
Click to Download – Horizontal Graphic | Vertical Graphic
Questions or Concerns?
For questions regarding sponsorships, please contact Rob Payne ([email protected]) or Andrew Gabel ([email protected]).
Questions about logistics, print advertisements, or graphics, please contact Katie Champion ([email protected])