Game On Live Studio (GOLS) used eight Blackmagic Design ATEM live production switchers and the Blackmagic Replay solution to stream every match of the 2026 Tropical 7s youth rugby tournament in Tampa, FL. Capturing over 750 matches across four days and 15 fields, GOLS ensures high-quality live streams for thousands of viewers, including parents, college recruiters, and athletes.
The live streaming of youth sports has become a critical component of modern sports broadcasting, with fans increasingly demanding high-quality, professional-level streams. Game On Live Studio (GOLS), one of the fastest-growing youth sports production companies in the U.S., recently streamed every match of the 2026 Tropical 7s youth rugby tournament using eight Blackmagic Design ATEM live production switchers and the Blackmagic Replay solution. Over four days and 15 fields, GOLS captured more than 750 matches, showcasing the versatility and reliability of Blackmagic Design products in handling diverse sports and large-scale events. GOLS prides itself on providing professional-level streaming for a wide range of youth sports, from water polo to bass fishing, making it a top choice for many American youth sports associations and major tournaments. Shawn Stringham, CEO of GOLS, emphasizes the importance of high-quality live streams, stating, "Fans love live streams, and sports organizations, schools, and facilities will be left behind if they don't provide professional-level live streams." This event highlights the growing trend of using professional-grade equipment to enhance the viewer experience, ensuring that even amateur sports receive the attention and coverage they deserve.
Technical and Operational Implications of GOLS Deployment
Game On Live Studio (GOLS) leveraged eight ATEM live production switchers and the Blackmagic Replay solution to stream every match of the 2026 Tropical 7s youth rugby tournament. The tournament featured 15 fields and over 750 matches, making it a significant undertaking. GOLS relied on a reliable workflow that included 26 Peli cases of gear and multiple cameras on each field. The switchers used were primarily ATEM Mini Pro ISOs and ATEM Mini Extreme ISOs, with an ATEM Streaming Bridge converter for signal transport. The DaVinci Resolve Replay Editor system played a crucial role in enhancing the viewing experience.
The ATEM switchers were the backbone of GOLS's setup, allowing for a wide range of camera angles and rapid switching. Stringham highlighted, "We probably would have had to use almost 20 switchers from other companies, but each ATEM is incredibly powerful." The DaVinci Resolve Replay Editor system was essential for handling replays and providing up-to-date scores and graphics. GOLS's on-site event studio show, powered by Blackmagic Design products, offered a professional broadcast level of coverage, rivaling any linear broadcast team. The flexibility and scalability of Blackmagic Design products were key in enabling GOLS to handle the large volume of matches efficiently.
The deployment of Blackmagic Design's ATEM live production switchers and the Blackmagic Replay solution by Game On Live Studio (GOLS) for the 2026 Tropical 7s youth rugby tournament signals a significant shift towards more professional-grade live streaming in the sports and post-production industry. GOLS, known for its high-quality productions and wide range of sports coverage, leverages these tools to deliver professional-level broadcasts, indicating a growing trend towards investing in reliable production equipment for live events.
The next likely step is a broader adoption of similar setups by other youth sports organizations and amateur tournaments. As viewers continue to demand high-quality, multi-angle, and immersive viewing experiences, the industry is likely to see a push for more advanced streaming solutions that can handle complex events with ease. The use of ATEM switchers and Blackmagic Replay by GOLS suggests that these tools are becoming essential for providing professional-grade streams, paving the way for more widespread use in the future.
As the next quarter approaches, viewers should watch for GOLS to expand its live streaming offerings to more youth sports events. The success of the 2026 Tropical 7s tournament, where Blackmagic Design products played a pivotal role, has demonstrated the potential for high-quality, professional broadcasts in amateur sports. With plans to continue growing its client base, GOLS is poised to deliver even more dynamic and engaging streams, ensuring that youth sports remain accessible and exciting for fans everywhere.
GOLS's workflow during the 2026 Tropical 7s tournament was meticulously planned to ensure coverage of every match. Each field had multiple cameras, allowing for diverse angles and quick switching. The ATEM Mini Pro ISO and ATEM Mini Extreme ISO models were chosen for their ability to handle various camera inputs and produce high-quality streams. The ATEM Streaming Bridge converter was used to transport the signal from the switchers to the production studio, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted streaming. Shawn Stringham noted, "The ATEM switchers are incredibly versatile and reliable. They allowed us to capture all the action without needing to bring in additional equipment, which is a huge advantage for us."
The DaVinci Resolve Replay Editor system played a crucial role in enhancing the viewing experience. It provided up-to-date scores, graphics, and replays, making the live streams more engaging for viewers. Stringham emphasized, "The DaVinci Resolve Replay Editor system was essential for handling replays and providing real-time statistics. It ensured that the audience had all the information they needed to follow the games closely." The combination of Blackmagic Design products and GOLS's expertise in live streaming created a integrated and professional broadcast experience, setting a new standard for amateur sports coverage.
News submitted by: Grace McInnis
