CASE STUDY
Willow TV
About
Willow is the premier broadcaster of cricket in the United States and Canada. Willow produces and distributes Willow, 24x7 high-definition television and digital video channels dedicated to cricket. Willow is the official broadcaster of various cricket Boards, including The International Cricket Council (ICC), Cricket Australia, England Cricket Board, Cricket South Africa, Pakistan Cricket Board, Sri Lanka Cricket, Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and others.
The Services
Willow quickly attributed a mass following of 6 million subscribers without any marketing support or brand foundation in place as it appealed to expats living in the US, already familiar and a fan of the sport of cricket and unable to otherwise watch their favorite sporting game.
The Mission
To create engaging and informative content that will update current fans and subscribers of the platform, in addition to educating the American sports market interested but not yet converted to following cricket.
The Outcome
A strategic overhaul of the social media content strategy marked our success. We transitioned from trivial birthday announcements to delivering compelling match schedules, game highlights, and educational content about cricket, tailored to a burgeoning U.S. audience. Our email marketing campaigns were aligned with this new content strategy, ensuring a cohesive brand experience across multiple platforms.
We also led the cricket giant to a rebrand that would allow the TV channel to generate brand awareness benefits, remain versatile for multi-channel marketing outreach, and align with plans for optimized digital platforms. This new brand went live in mid-2023 under the internal team's direction.
The Impact
After the first year, Willow TV had a solid base of customer data and feedback, which provided insights into subscriber preferences and the adjustments needed for continuous improvement and market competitiveness. This led to a collaborative rebranding initiative with SOAR Media, which was successfully launched in mid-2023.
Chris Lawton, SOAR's web development expert, brings over 39 years of experience in information technology. Chris served as the architect and director of IT and Enterprise Architecture for a US company in the US and Europe, where he was responsible for business systems across the continent. He led the team in implementing innovative solutions that streamlined business processes and improved efficiency. Additionally, Chris worked at Coca-Cola in Atlanta, where he was the architect developing and implementing strategies that enhanced website performance and ensured optimal user experience for 650 global websites and their infrastructure.
SOAR got its start with its Aussie founder, Olivia Malifa. Olivia has over 18 years of experience in the marketing industry. She has worked in all capacities and from all angles, serving as a marketing manager in both corporate and private businesses for over a decade before starting her own successful consultancy firm. Through her work in agency, Olivia discovered her true passion for combining creativity and strategy to serve a diverse range of clients across multiple industries.
SOAR's co-founder and COO, Anthony 'Anton' Forbes-Roberts is an executive, advisor and investor with over twenty-five years of leadership in Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial ventures, and nonprofits. His marketing experience includes leadership positions at Ogilvy Worldwide and Carlson Companies, in a career where he has designed, built, and/or sold programs driving over $500M in annual revenue. Anton's expertise in strategy & operations helps SOAR Media build, support and optimize its unique 'one stop' marketing services model on behalf of its clients.
Andrew Armanasco is a key member of the SOAR team, specializing in new business development, account management, and relationship management. Andrew holds a degree in Business from Tulsa University and has been in the industry for several years. He has worked throughout the Americas and the European Union, helping businesses with community development, land acquisition, manufacturing, expansion, sales, and distribution.
Behind every successful brand is one fundamental element: engaging experiences. As an Atlanta-native, Brand Marketing Strategist (Senior Account Manager), Kate Kisner has 13+ years of developing world-class events, acquisitions, brand concepts, and launches. Adept at developing methods to enhance visibility and market share by turning followers into clients, out-earning competitors, and increasing profit margins with forward-thinking, holistic brand experiences.
Moriah Deal is SOAR’s account manager with an impressive background in all areas of Public Relations and Marketing. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Science from Kennesaw State University, with a minor in Marketing. Since then, she has brought her skills to many industries. Moriah has written Healthcare PR copy with WellStar and the Georgia Pharmacy Association, done digital marketing for a carpet manufacturer that targeted Commercial Event and Hospitality spaces, facilitated social media marketing for a non-profit, and worked in graphic design and event management for a plumbing marketing department.
Delfina Booth is an interdisciplinary professional who excels in writing, marketing, and social media. She received her Bachelor's in Literature, Media, and Communication and Master's in Global Media and Communications from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Delfina is always creating; her academic background includes building two fantasy computer games, directing three short films, and studying abroad in Mexico City twice.
Logan Wilson brings a wealth of marketing expertise to SOAR Media, where he excels in crafting impactful strategies and innovative campaigns. As the Marketing Coordinator for the Seattle Seawolves, Logan handles social media, advertising, promotional design, sponsorships, and data analysis to drive marketing success. Combining his marketing skills with a deep passion for sports, fueled by his sister’s rugby career, Logan thrives on the excitement of game days and engaging fans. His dedication to excellence in every project reflects his commitment to both the sport and his role.
Jamie is our senior account manager, with a master’s degree and over 15 years of experience across a number of industries. She excels at guiding clients to success, having overseen accounts for major brands like Nike, Adidas, Starbucks, and Tommy Hilfiger. Originally from Texas, Jamie has lived in California and D.C., and now resides in Washington. In her free time, she enjoys family activities, traveling, outdoor running, yoga, and kayaking.
Pago brings over two years of freelance experience in video and photo editing. In his role, he takes pride in bringing imagination to life by creating and refining compelling visuals to match our clients' needs. When not working, he enjoys quality time with his wife, their dog, and a good night's sleep.
Chance Wenglewski is a graphic designer and illustrator with five years of experience under his belt. He loves contributing to the creative process of using his art to take that project to the next level and leave an impact. In his free time, Chance stays active with regular visits to the gym, training for rugby season, and exploring his passion for tattooing.
Lain is a creative force at SOAR Media, with proven success in marketing teams. She has developed a flair for creating visually compelling narratives and building cohesive brand identities. With her expertise in graphic design, multimedia, and brand identity development, Lain creates unique, memorable brand experiences that capture audiences' hearts and catapult client success.
Amanda Lako is SOAR’s marketing intern with a passion for creativity and marketing. In December 2024, she graduates with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and a concentration in Data Analytics. Amanda merges her energy for marketing and her analytical skills to bring fresh perspectives to the team and new ideas to the table. In her free time, she loves to read, travel, and try new restaurants!
Our newest intern is a passionate, smart, hard working professional looking to start her career as an entry-level marketer for a high-performance organization with opportunity for growth. Zoe Franklin is currently pursuing a BBA in International Business and Marketing with a Minor in Japanese Language and Literature at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Set to graduate in Spring 2025, Zoe is excited to enter the world of business and showcase what she has to offer.