One of the regular Friday highlights now ingrained in the noon ET SportsCenter is a segment called “Feel Good Friday.” It’s self-explanatory.
This past season, ESPN crowd-sourced social media to identify 140 of the biggest college football fans – including top engagers on social, College GameDay virtual fans, and fans that went about and beyond – and sent each of them a premium gift box to thank them for their support. Hundreds of mentions generated more than 100K impressions with 100 percent positive net sentiment for the brand.
Here are some examples of ESPN college football commentators’ thoughts on the season and promotion:
We have been through a unique college football season, but we have gotten through it together and I want to thank the fans for reminding me why this sport is so special! A big s/o to @girlgopher @cloemichaud @SMcMahonSHP for going above and beyond this season! ????????
— Maria Taylor (@MariaTaylor) January 8, 2021
These fans have been there for College football & @CollegeGameDay no matter where they are… some even from their hospital beds! Sincere thank you to @JoeMogus, @staceywin, and @leslieAnnPSU for what they brought this season. Nothing takes away the passion! Thank you!
— Rece Davis (@ReceDavis) January 8, 2021
How cool is it that throughout all the chaos of the season, the fans were relentless in their passion for the sport? Want to send a special shout out and thank you to what you all brought this season, especially @Danielw2222, @StaffordWRLD, @RandyBigDawg!
— David Pollack (@davidpollack47) January 8, 2021
I have always said it, but mean it even more this season…college football fans are the best ones out there! They give their all to this sport and I can't thank you all for what your brought this season. Special shout out to @blogan2010, @taylordiveley, and @TheRealTCG3!
— Desmond Howard (@DesmondHoward) January 8, 2021
College football fans are the best & boy did they prove it this season. Thanks for hanging in there & showing fandom is bigger than any stadium walls can contain! I loved seeing what these special fans brought to CFB this season: @janetcouch222, @dustinadams7909, @patodonnell22_!
— Laura Rutledge (@LauraRutledge) January 8, 2021
I missed seeing you on the road this season, but could still feel your fandom & passion from afar. Thanks to all the fans out there that make this sport so special and unique, and shout out @caroline_bland4, @TyScottJensen, and @allentr09 for what they brought this season!
— Chris Fowler (@cbfowler) January 11, 2021
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd09FKJDq_M
In the video below, ESPN’s NFL Live and SEC Nation host Laura Rutledge explains what it meant to her to give back to college football fans in a year unlike any other.