ESPN Rise Spotlights High School Sports

By Julieanne Smolinski

ESPN is launching ESPN Rise, a new content brand aimed at high school athletes and fans across television, print, mobile and Web media.

The content initiative is set to roll out in August and will include a social networking site, digital coverage, Web video of student athletes and games, live television events and dedicated Rise segments across its “SportsCenter,” “ESPNews” and “College Football Live” shows.

Starting this summer, ESPN magazine properties also will feature high-school-themed RISE items.

“This is a very exciting time for ESPN,” said James Brown, a 13-year veteran of the network tapped to lead the initiative. “ESPN Rise will provide the high school athlete and fan base with content and an environment that celebrates high school sports in a unique way.”