U Of Oregon Launches First Digital Media Hub In College Athletics

EUGENE, Ore. – The University of Oregon Athletic Department launched what it says is the first digital media hub in college athletics.

A seldom-used storage room near Autzen Stadium has become the QuackCave. The idea was inspired social media command centers used by the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League and corporations Dell and Gatorade, said UO Athletic Department spokesman Andy McNamara.

The QuackCave contains a wall of flat screen TVs and monitors that are controlled by iPads and wireless keyboards. It is staffed by UO students who will monitor and produce digital content across social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Google+ and Instagram (uoducks).

“We have an ever-growing, technically savvy fan base that’s deeply passionate about the Ducks, and the QuackCave will allow us to connect and respond to them in a personal and unique way,” said McNamara.

The room was designed by two UO graduate students who are working toward their master’s degrees in interior architecture.

“We want to be able to engage with our fans at an unparalleled level and monitor what is one of the top brands in college athletics,” said UO Senior Associate Athletic Director Craig Pintens. “But the most exciting part of the QuackCave is collaborating with University of Oregon students, where we can provide real-world experience with a top brand in a burgeoning area of public relations.”