How to Get Readers to Pay for the Web? College Football!

by Colby Hall | 10:52 am, September 2nd, 2009

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It appears that the scarcity of information about the Alabama Crimson Tide is far more valuable than pedestrian local news, at least in the eyes of one local paper. Editor & Publisher reports that The Tuscaloosa News announced the creation of a new site devoted to University of Alabama athletics, TidesSportsExtra.com. The daily paper will charge $10 per month or $59.95 per year for access to the site, and will be separate from the paper’s main Web page, which remains free.

Writing for Editor & Publisher Joe Strupp reports:

“The site will offer in-depth coverage of University of Alabama athletics, including specialized blogs, forums, user profiles and video,” an announcement stated.

Added Chris Rattey, the News’ director of new media: “TideSportsExtra provides University of Alabama fans with content they cannot get anywhere else. With photos, blogs, video and extensive coverage, the site will offer an unparalleled fan experience.”

Among the paid-only items on the site will be columnist Cecil Hurt’s new blog, along with his columns and Internet talk show. “In addition to experiencing richer content, Web site users will be able to engage and participate more easily with comments, photos and videos, creating a deeper online community,” the announcement added.