Ascent Sports Group has announced the acquisition of LiveBarn, marking its first investment as it looks to build a more connected digital ecosystem across youth and amateur sports.
Based in Montreal, LiveBarn provides automated livestreaming, video-on-demand, and analytics services across more than 4,000 sports venues in the United States and Canada. The platform is widely used in youth ice hockey and enables athletes, families, coaches, and fans to watch games and share highlights remotely. Ascent plans to expand LiveBarn’s capabilities further within hockey while selectively growing into additional sports.
Ascent Sports Group was established in January 2026 through a Leaders Strategy partnership between GTCR and CEO Gary Swidler. The LiveBarn acquisition represents a foundational step in Ascent’s strategy to enhance participation, engagement, and connectivity across the youth sports ecosystem.
Following the transaction, Ray Giroux, previously Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of LiveBarn. Founder Farrel Miller will transition to the Board of Directors of Ascent Sports Group.
Ascent intends to invest in improving LiveBarn’s product quality, reliability, and accessibility while maintaining strong partnerships with venues and leagues. The company aims to streamline what it sees as a fragmented digital experience for families participating in youth sports.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Funds affiliated with Ares Management will remain investors in LiveBarn.
KEY QUOTES:
“LiveBarn is an outstanding business and a strong initial investment for Ascent. Families juggle too many disconnected tools to participate in sports, we want to fix that. LiveBarn has built a powerful platform within youth hockey, and we are excited to leverage its capabilities to deliver a more seamless digital experience.”
Gary Swidler, Chief Executive Officer, Ascent Sports Group
“Over the past decade, LiveBarn has created a unique platform that helps athletes and their families see and share their games whether they’re across town or across the country. I’m proud of what we’ve built and look forward to continuing to support the business and its mission in the years ahead.”
Farrel Miller, Founder, LiveBarn
“I’m honored to lead LiveBarn during this exciting next chapter. As a hockey parent, former player and a longtime member of the LiveBarn team, I know how important the platform is to players, families and our venue and league partners. With the support of Ascent and Gary, we plan to accelerate investment in our technology and continue improving the experience, building an even stronger platform for the youth sports community.”
Ray Giroux, Chief Executive Officer, LiveBarn
