The Rattler Sports Network will shift to an online platform this fall, as FAMU football contest will be ditching long-time terrestrial (over-the-air) radio partner WHBX-FM (96.1 Jamz) and switching to its "own" in-house digital media platform.
The new online audio network will not only broadcast football games, but coaches' shows, and other athletic content.
"We are excited to have an in-house platform that will allow us to broadcast Florida A&M University athletic content to Rattler fans, alumni, prospective students, and student-athletes around the globe," said Athletic Director Kortne Gosha. "Peak Sports, who FAMU signed with in December 2020, has developed a turnkey solution that will also allow us to further maximize our multimedia rights."
“The (new) Rattler Sports Network will bring FAMU Athletics content to more consumers," said Dep. AD Keith McCluney. Peak Sports will manage and sell all sponsorship inventory for the network.
It is believed, that FAMU will become the first HBCU to manage and operate its "own" in-house audio network.
The first broadcast on the Rattler Sports Network will be the Football Coach's Show with head coach Willie Simmons on Monday, August 30 at 7 PM EST, followed by a live broadcast of the Orange Blossom Classic football game on September 5, featuring FAMU v. Jackson State.
New voice of Rattler football
In addition to a shift to the digital platform, Mike Thomas will take over the play-by-play calling duties for Rattler football games this year, according to the release issued by FAMU athletics last night.
Thomas will also join Coach Simmons on the RSN Football Coach’s Show as they discuss Rattler football. Different student-athletes and assistant coaches will also join them.