Powering Up the Stadium: Columbus Crew Video Board Animation
Live sports thrive on energy. Both on the field and in the stands. Video board animations help amplify those moments, transforming crowd excitement into a shared visual experience inside the stadium.
This animation we delivered for the Columbus Crew plays as a “Power Up” moment during key points in the match. The visual also acknowledges the team’s partnership with American Electric Power, using electricity and infrastructure as the central theme of the animation.
Design Concept
At the center of the piece is an industrial noise meter that builds as the stadium crowd gets louder. The environment surrounding it is inspired by electrical infrastructure such as transformers, insulators, and power equipment.
“The goal was to create the feeling that the stadium itself is generating electricity”, - Sam Collins
Bright electric arcs surge across the composition, feeding energy into the meter and visually representing the growing momentum of the match. Soccer balls fly through the scene as the meter fills, tying the animation back to the sport while reinforcing the idea that the crowd’s energy is powering the moment.
To construct the hero assets quickly while maintaining detail, I used kitbashing techniques to assemble the central electrical structures and supporting environment. The industrial aesthetic works both as a visual metaphor for crowd energy and as a nod to the partnership with American Electric Power.
Designed for large stadium displays, the animation emphasizes bold lighting, high contrast, and strong motion so it reads clearly on a massive video board.
Why Stadium Graphics Matter
Great stadium graphics do more than fill time between plays, they enhance the overall fan experience.
They amplify crowd energy
Animations encourage fan participation and help create memorable in-game moments.
They celebrate partnerships
Visual themes can highlight sponsors in ways that feel natural and integrated with the team’s identity.
They strengthen team branding
Custom visuals reinforce the look and personality of the club throughout the match.
They elevate the live experience
In modern sports venues, strong visuals are a key part of making the event feel larger than life.
Bringing Moments to Life
At Tin Fish, we create motion design and 3D visuals built specifically for live environments. From stadium video boards to broadcast graphics and digital content Tin Fish delivers premium creative to premium brands.
When design, storytelling, and motion come together, even a short animation can help turn a moment in the match into something the entire stadium feels.
And sometimes, all it takes is a little electricity. ⚡⚽
