5 Reasons Why Every Stadium Needs a Press Box

Press boxes are a common addition to modern stadiums and for good reason. These elevated areas provide an unobstructed view for all gameday operations including media coverage, coaching, commentating, timing (for track and field), scoreboard controls, lighting, and much more. In addition to providing a convenient workspace for managing your team, press boxes also offer a variety of benefits for the schools and organizations that own them. 

If you’re planning an upcoming stadium build or renovation, don’t overlook the potential benefits of incorporating a press box into your design. Here are five key reasons why your stadium needs a press box.

Reason #1: Provides a bird's eye view of the game

Press boxes are undoubtedly one of the most coveted spots in any sporting arena or stadium. And for good reason — they provide an unbeatable view of the game. With their elevated position, press box occupants have a clear line of sight, which enables them to accurately judge the on-field action.

Consider, for instance, the perspective of a football coach from the press box. From there, they can observe the game's dynamics and make strategic decisions in real-time by using the unique vantage point. The press box gives coaches the opportunity to analyze the opposing team and make immediate adjustments, such as changing play calls based on what they see. 

From this outpost, coaches and other sports professionals gain an unrivaled understanding of the game, enabling them to make informed decisions that can profoundly impact the outcome. 

Reason #2: Provides shelter in poor weather conditions

For stadiums with press boxes, inclement weather poses no threat to the quality of gameday operations. By providing a sheltered environment, press boxes help ensure the day’s events are not compromised by external factors, such as rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures. In addition to the shelter provided, many modern-day press boxes include amenities like electrical outlets and HVAC systems, so that everyone can do their work efficiently and comfortably.  

For instance, within the confines of the press box, commentators can have access to an array of resources, including statistical sheets, player profiles, and historical data. Commentators who are shielded from the elements can readily retrieve this information without having to worry about the interference of poor weather conditions. Having access to this information empowers commentators to provide valuable context and analysis during their broadcast.

Not to mention, these elevated, enclosed press boxes also shield anyone inside from the noise of the crowd. This can be especially helpful to members of the media — keeping them away from opinionated fans, and any distractions that might interfere with their focus on the game.

Reason #3: Centralizes communication and coordination 

While press boxes are known for housing members of the media, they also double as a shared space for team executives, coaches, and support staff to gather and track the progress of the game or event. 

Baseball coaches and scouts, for example, may have representatives in the press box. They can communicate with their coaching staff on the field, discussing observations, strategies, and potential adjustments during the game.

This shared space fosters collaboration and helps to keep everyone on the same page. By providing key stakeholders with a common vantage point, press boxes facilitate quick decision making and efficient communication between sports professionals.

Reason #4: Improves the overall image and reputation of the stadium 

Press boxes play a big role in improving a stadium’s image and reputation by demonstrating professionalism, facilitating media coverage, and nurturing key stakeholder relationships. These factors help position the stadium as a premier venue for events in the future. 

• Professionalism: The presence of a well-designed and well-equipped press box signifies professionalism and demonstrates that the stadium takes its events seriously. It shows that the venue is committed to providing the necessary facilities and support to deliver high-quality coverage of events. 
• Stakeholder Relationships: Building positive relationships with stakeholders can lead to favorable coverage, increased publicity, and improved perception of the stadium. Team executives and coaches, for example, who have a positive experience in the press box are more likely to share that experience, further enhancing the stadium's reputation.
• Media Coverage: By offering the media an ideal vantage point and providing the necessary resources and amenities, press boxes enable media personnel to capture and report on key moments of the event accurately. This comprehensive coverage contributes to the stadium's reputation as a hub for important sporting events, attracting more media attention and increasing its visibility.

As sport executives and media share their positive experiences in the press box, the stadium's reputation is further enhanced, solidifying its position as a respected and sought-after destination for various sporting events and more.

Reason #5: Enhances the spectator experience

Press boxes primarily focus on improving gameday operations rather than the spectator experience directly. However, there are ways in which press boxes can indirectly contribute to improving the overall spectator experience at a stadium or venue. Here are a few ways in which this can happen:

• Enhanced Coverage: Press boxes enable media personnel to provide comprehensive coverage of the event. This coverage includes play-by-play commentary, analysis, interviews, and high-quality photographs. By delivering accurate and engaging coverage, press boxes help create a more immersive experience for spectators who may not have a clear view or understanding of certain aspects of the event.
• Atmosphere and Excitement: The presence of commentators in the press box adds to the overall atmosphere and excitement of the event. Their live commentary, updates, and reactions to significant moments can influence the energy in the stadium and engage spectators.
• Promoting the Venue: Press boxes can contribute to promoting the venue itself. Any media reporting from the press box may highlight unique aspects of the stadium, its facilities, or the overall event experience in their coverage. Positive coverage from media professionals can generate interest and attract more spectators to future events at the venue.

By providing spectators with a more immersive and informative experience, press boxes contribute to an overall positive and engaging event atmosphere.

Improve Your Stadium with a Press Box

Press boxes are an invaluable addition to modern sports stadiums. Incorporating press boxes into stadium designs is essential for creating a premier venue that caters to everyone, contributing to the success and positive reputation of the stadium. Whether you need a press box for a high school football stadium or college baseball field, we’ve got you covered.

Discover the benefits of incorporating a press box into your design and take your venue to the next level. Explore our range of press box solutions. Elevate your stadium's reputation and create a superior experience for all. Contact us to learn more!