Ruckus and The Cloud bring free WiFi to the Championship

5th August: Home and away fans alike are set to benefit from free WiFi across all corners of the Amex Community Stadium as Brighton & Hove Albion set out on the 2014/15 Championship campaign. The roll-out, which has been managed by The Cloud and utilizes access points provided by Ruckus Wireless, will span the stands, bars, concourses and press areas. This deployment is set to improve the match day experience, giving fans the ability to browse the web, Tweet, bet in-play and use the club’s new mobile App.

“Our fans want to get online– everything from catching up on scores to uploading videos from the stands. The ability to get online has become a big part of match day,” said Paul Barber, CEO at Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club. “For us, mobile is a great way of bringing the fans closer to the action and there’s an opportunity to expand on that in the future with competitions, games or other interactive tools. Having fast, free internet across the ground is key to engaging with fans.”

Vince Russell, MD at Sky’s public WiFi service, The Cloud added: “We know that football fans love to get online when they are in or near the stadium – to get the latest sports updates or share their own pictures and comment. Launching a public WiFi service is another great example of Sky’s ability to use the latest technology and innovation to give sports fans an even better experience.”

The WiFi project was managed by BSkyB-owned The Cloud, and uses a range of Ruckus Wireless access points and network management systems. The deployment once again highlights the importance of value added services and increased viewer engagement at stadia, not just in the UK but on a global scale.

Roger Hockaday, Director of Marketing, EMEA at Ruckus added: “With smartphone ownership at more than 50% of the UK adult population, stadia can capitalise on this statistic by enhancing their digital offering and increasing satisfaction through connected and engaged fans, both inside and outside the stadium.

“Working with Ruckus, The Cloud has delivered Brighton and Hove Albion with a top quality Wi-Fi network that befits the stadium, the ambition of the club and the passion of its fans. We wish the ‘Seagulls’ the best of luck as they pursue promotion to The Premiership next season, and all their fans that will no doubt be using the WiFi network to get behind the team during match days,” he concluded.