SIGNIFICANT work still remains in the days leading up to round two to add virtual crowd and fan engagement aspects to broadcasters' in-game coverage.
The AFL is particularly keen to involve fans in the broadcast while they can't physically attend games.
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As AFL.com.au revealed last week, one option is a Gogglebox-style set-up, where select club members video their reactions to key moments during a match as they watch from home.
How that would work is still being discussed but it's believed fans' videos would be presented in a grid view, similar to Channel Seven's 'Megawall' concept.
They could also be displayed on the stadium scoreboard and on the LED signage around the ground.
The AFL also contacted clubs this week about the prospect of them helping organise for fans to pre-record themselves singing their theme song for use on the coverage after wins.
It's believed Channel Seven's biggest focus is on establishing virtual crowds, which is proving challenging to develop and would be world-first technology.
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The problem is the technology can't be generic and must be tailored to fit each AFL stadium, as well as being appropriate for day and night games and various other intangibles.
Channel Seven is in a race against time to have the concept ready for Thursday night's season opener between reigning premier Richmond and flag fancy Collingwood.
Clubs have access to an area behind the goals to use, including Collingwood, Essendon and the Western Bulldogs having cardboard cutouts with fans' digital faces on them.
They are the only clubs looking to use cutouts at this stage, with others set to adorn seats with jumpers, have crepe banners across the section or recognise corporate partners.
AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said matches would be crowd-less through at least round five but he was hopeful a limited number of fans might be able to attend shortly afterwards.
