Football Australia has partnered with Ogilvy to unveil the Dream Team, an AI and children’s book inspired podcast series which will tell the story of the Matildas’ Paris 2024 campaign.
The Matildas start the Paris 2024 Olympic Games campaign in Marseille against world ranked number four Germany at 3.00am Thursday Sydney time.
All of Australia’s three group stage matches during the Games kick-off at 3.00am AEST, making it a challenge to cheer on the Matildas.
Through the Dream Team Storytime series though, fans of all ages will be able to listen via the magic of AI, Matildas’ captain Steph Catley tell the story of the match which occurred while they were in bed.
Following every Australian match, Football Australia will release on Spotify and Apple Podcasts a new story – narrated by Catley’s – with short, animated clips.
“The Dream Team series is a groundbreaking initiative that underscores our commitment to connecting with the next generation of football fans. By blending the excitement of the Matildas’ Olympic journey with the magic of storytelling, we hope to inspire young Australians to dream big and engage with the beautiful game," Football Australia CEO James Johnson said.
“We understand the challenge posed by the early kick-off times, but with the Dream Team series, younger fans can relive the thrill of the Matildas’ matches in a way that fits their schedules. This approach allows us to bring the joy and excitement of the Olympic Games into homes across Australia, ensuring that no one misses out on the action.
"Partnering with Ogilvy on this project has been an incredible experience. Their creative expertise, combined with our shared passion for football, has resulted in a series that is not only entertaining but also educational. We believe this collaboration will leave a lasting impact on the sport and help cultivate a lifelong love for football among young Australians."
Each Dream Team story will be written in real time during and immediately after the match, with each episode being released later that day.
Football Australia is delighted to be working with Hillary Badger on the Dream Team project, a published author of more than 20 books for young readers and the executive creative director at Ogilvy Melbourne.
Badger said Football Australia and Ogilvy captured The Matilda's never-say-die attitude with the ‘Til It’s Done’ campaign, which the whole nation adopted.
"The Matildas really symbolise a celebration of women’s sporting achievements that was long overdue. Maintaining that spotlight during one of the biggest sporting events is important to get the next generation into sport. With the Matildas games in France kicking off 3am Australian eastern standard time, it’s a bit past the bedtime of the kids the team is looking to inspire," Badger said.
“The Dream Team series answers that creative challenge. Matildas games will be written up in the form of children’s stories, ready to be downloaded and listened to only hours after each match concludes. Kids don’t need to miss out on the inspiration that the Matildas will provide during their Paris campaign.”
As part of the Dream Team project, Ogilvy is responsible for the creative idea, illustration, writing, AI build, and asset rollout.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.