The Vancouver Warriors’ in-game entertainment has become one of the most recognizable experiences in the NLL and is receiving international recognition.
The team was honoured with a Golden Matrix Award for Best Overall Alternative Production, an award that celebrates creativity and innovation in live entertainment. The organization was recognized in a category of major productions such as Monster Jam and National Rugby League, highlighting the impact the Warriors’ game entertainment team has made across sports.
Manager of Game Entertainment Steven van Vooght said the award is a reflection of a collaborative effort that starts with the fans.
“We are very proud of our work and are humbled to be mentioned alongside other great organizations like Monster Jam and the National Rugby League,” van Vooght said. “We have so much fun creating content for the best fans in the NLL. Our content would not be the same without the total buy-in from the fans.”
That connection has become the foundation of the Warriors’ game entertainment. Rather than simply following trends, the entertainment team looks to the energy inside Rogers Arena to create moments that feel unique at a Warriors game.
“We feed off the energy of Warriors fans,” van Vooght said. “We take inspiration from everywhere. We love putting our own unique twist on current pop culture and social media trends.”
That approach has produced some unforgettable moments throughout the season. From young fans stealing the spotlight during Wrestling Night dressed as Hulk Hogan to the fan-favourite super dogs, and countless shoeys on the jumbotron, guest participation became just as important as the action on the floor.
Among the game entertainment team’s favourite creations was a parody video of the Beastie Boys’ “Intergalatic” music video and the Warriors’ playoff opening video.
Game entertainment wasn’t afraid to push the boundaries of what fans might expect during an NLL game.
The Warriors Weiner Wars challenged contestants to eat as many hot dogs as possible in two minutes during halftime, complete with hot dog parachutes being released from the rafters for fans in the bowl. Another classic at a Warriors game is the shoey cam, inviting willing fans to pour their drinks into a shoe and finish them in front of the crowd.
“We walk a fine line of creating funny, edgy, and trendy content while keeping in mind it is a show for all ages,” van Vooght said. “Our crazy ideas are nothing without our crazy fans!”
While memorable moments on the videoboard may last only a few seconds, creating them is an ongoing process. The game entertainment staff is always challenging themselves and dreaming up the next idea that will surprise fans.
“This award is not won without the hard work of the incredibly talented Warriors Business Operations team, and the support from ownership to try new things and create memories for the fans,” van Vooght said.
The Golden Matrix Award recognizes the ingenuity that has become synonymous with a Warriors home game. The game entertainment team creates an atmosphere where every fan heads home with a special experience and great memories of the game.