Here is a personal story from one of our members highlighting the local sports exclusive issue in action at the expense of the sports fan:

Over two years ago, Comcast NW signed a contract with the Portland Trailblazers.

At that time, they promised to get the rest of the state’s cable companies and the dish providers signed up so all Oregon could enjoy our only pro sports team. 

Today, two and a half seasons later, most of Oregon still can’t see the Blazers on their local cable TV station or on a dish.

In my case, because I also live within the blackout area of the Rose Garden (150 milies even on away games), Blazers games are also blacked out on NBA LEague PASS, NBA TV and even NBA Broadband.

I would buy Comcast if I could. I would buy a local cable company that now shows Comcast, if I could. But I can’t and so I’m screwed.

-SFC Member

The issue is a serious one.  If a company promises to provide coverage to its fans, why shouldn’t it be held accountable?  It should. 

That’s why the Sports Fans Coalition was formed.  Accountability.

In related news, the Comcast/NBC Merger is currently being reviewed by the FCC.  We are advising the FCC to not only close the ‘terrestrial loophole’ that allows local sports exclusives (i.e. blackouts), but to incorporate into their guidelines strict rules on how the merged company can act in order to protect the sports fan. 

Join the Coalition and you’ll receive periodical updates on what we’re doing about these issues, and how you can make a difference today.