Iconic SportsCafe returns in podcast form

AUCKLAND, Today: New Zealand sports TV icon, SportsCafe, is back with a fresh podcast called Sportscafe-ish on NZME’s iHeartRadio network.

Hosted by the original crew—journalist Ric Salizzo, ex-All Black Marc Ellis, and comedian Leigh Hart—the podcast brings the same humour and sports commentary that made the TV show famous.

After running a rugby team in New York, Salizzo returns to team up with Ellis and Hart. They’ll discuss current sports issues, feature surprise guests, and reminisce about SportsCafe moments.

Salizzo loves the new digital format. “I’ve always been fascinated by the changing habits of how audiences consume content. When we started SportsCafe, Sky Sport only had 70,000 subscribers so it was a risk trying to start a show there.

“I love how in 2024 creators can go directly to their audience through podcasts, social media, and YouTube. It’s an exciting time to make content, so I thought, why not get back into it? And I knew a couple of people…”

“We’re pumped to team up with broadcasting legends Ric, Marc, and Leigh to deliver this podcast that I know fans have been waiting for.” – Sarah Catran

NZME’s digital transformation impressed Salizzo. “I’ve been really impressed with the way NZME has embraced the changing digital space. I did my work experience at the NZ Herald in 1981, and it’s come a long way from sending stories and multiple carbon copies to the subs by pneumatic tubes.

Salizzo adds, “With the work NZME has done developing great podcasts like Between Two Beers, I thought they would be great to partner with to make sure we had a chance to build a strong audience with Sportscafe-ish.”

Sarah Catran, NZME Head of Digital Audio, says, “NZME is dedicated to creating content that Kiwis love. I couldn’t think of more quintessential Kiwi content than SportsCafe, which we’re thrilled to bring into the digital age through our podcast network as Sportscafe-ish.

“We’re pumped to team up with broadcasting legends Ric, Marc, and Leigh to deliver this podcast that I know fans have been waiting for.”