SECTION 11 – TELEVISION

If the event can attract TV this is often seen as the true indicator of attractiveness of the event. When TV crew are present their needs should be met, but it is important to ensure that spectators and players are still respected, too. Another issue when TV is present is the control of other moving images to make sure no TV rights are violated.

1. The host broadcaster

The first task is to appoint a host broadcaster and agree on the coverage that shall be provided. The information on exact coverage shall be given to the Referee.

The logistical requirements for the host broadcaster must be planned and agreed with involved parties. These requirements can include:

-spaces for equipment and vehicles in- and outside the venue
-meeting and office rooms
-interview area
-power supplies
-accreditations
-commentary spaces with relevant facilities 

A contract must be signed with the host broadcaster on the expected delivery of an international standard signal. The contract should also detail who owns the rights to the signal in which markets and consider the rights to produce and market videos from the signal.

2. Live television 

The first consideration is whether there will be live coverage. If so, the starting time and gaps between matches must be controlled to precision which requires close liaison between the Referee, the Organisers and the TV representative.

3. Scheduling

Another important issue is whether TV or the right holders would like to influence the scheduling of the TV court. This is normally the case and therefore the Referee should be advised well in advance of preparing and publishing the relevant playing schedules.

4. Placement of the cameras

The minimum requirements for cameras are normally:

-Main Camera (behind the court)
-Floor Camera (by the net covering one half of the court)
-Floor Camera (by the net covering the other half of the court)
-EVS machine for replays (from one of the corners)
-ENG Camera to cover crowd shots, players, coaches, etc.

The exact placement of the floor cameras must be planned in consultation with the Referee so that no technical officials are obstructed.

There should normally not be play from other courts within the camera shot. Should the venue not be full, it is important to rearrange the spectator seating so that as many people as possible are sitting within the camera shot.

5. Microphones for umpires

If microphones for umpires are to be used for TV it is important that the Referee is aware of this so that the Umpires can be briefed accordingly.

6. Amateur videoing and teams taping of games

Normally spectator videoing is not allowed.

It is important to create a system of camera accreditation that will allow players and team officials to record own matches and matches of opponents. The TV contract must be set up in a way that allows this activity.

Cameras on tripods should be placed in a way that they do not interfere with the view of spectators.

7. The TV director

The TV director is the key person in ensuring a high-quality production. Therefore, experience with producing badminton is a huge advantage. If the TV director has no experience with badminton it can be beneficial to rehearse on one or more matches.

8. TV commentators

In order for the TV coverage to be good it is vital that the commentator is well prepared and knows the sport. Seating must be prepared to give a good view of the match. The seating should be elevated behind the TV court and will require space for tables, monitors, etc. There should be a separation between the commentators and spectators.

9. Liaison with TV company

It is recommendable that one person is in charge of the communication with the TV company on all matters such as scheduling, player profiles information, match start times and cues, etc. Hereby it is ensured that there is no duplication of requests. The person in charge should also liaise closely with the person in charge of media and the person in charge of protocol should for instance the medal ceremonies be televised.

10. Collection of data 

It is very important to arrange with the distributor of the international TV rights, that they provide feedback on the channel that broadcasted from the event including information on:

-type of coverage (live or delayed)
-time of coverage
-household reach