The Arizona Cardinals and Cox Business announced a multi-year, multi-million-dollar partnership that makes Cox the exclusive technology solutions provider for both the team and University of Phoenix Stadium. The partnership is an extension and expansion of the existing relationship between the two organizations originally formed in 2006.
"Cox has a reputation as an industry-leading provider of technology products and solutions that is well-known and well-deserved," said Cardinals President Michael Bidwill. "Through this partnership, Cox will provide a broad range of services and products that will not only deliver the best possible stadium experience for Cardinals fans, but also enhance the organization's technological capabilities on a daily basis."
The partnership features Cox's technology product integration throughout University of Phoenix Stadium and the Cardinals training complex, as well as a number of promotional, marketing, fan activation and community relations initiatives. The services include telecommunications and Internet services, cable TV, video transmission services, WiFi and network infrastructure. Cox Business will also provide technical support to the team for all major events.
As part of the deal, Cox and the Cardinals will offer a virtual reality (VR) interactive experience similar to what the Cardinals players and coaches use as a training tool. As part of the virtual reality system, Cardinals fans can experience what it feels like to be on the field practicing with the team, standing on the field during pre-game player introductions, or participating in the coin toss before kickoff. The virtual reality experience is free for fans and will be located on the stadium's upper concourse (Fifth Quarter Deck) during Cardinals home games.
"We are thrilled to expand our partnership with the Arizona Cardinals and University of Phoenix Stadium," said Ed Aaronson, Vice President for Cox Business Arizona. "It has been a privilege to deliver technology services to the team and the stadium for more than a decade. This expansion of our relationship will further enhance our ability to partner with the Cardinals to deliver the premier fan experience."