The sports industry is changing at a rapid pace and technology is playing a big part in this evolution. Technology has revolutionized the way sport is consumed, enhancing spectator experience to newer heights. In addition, it has also created a level playing field with technology used as a deciding factor in game winning decisions supported by data and analytics that would otherwise be invisible to the human eye.
In an exclusive interview with SPOGO, Mr. Sandy Zinn, an award winning sports industry executive having worked in Major League Baseball and ESPN speaks about the evolution of technology in sports, it’s future trajectory, the importance of data analytics, AR/VR and MR and more!
Q 1) How has the use of technology in sports evolved over the years and where is it gearing towards in the future?
Ans: Technology has come a long way but is still misunderstood and misused. Our technology developments have long been broadcast-focused, but as tech advances are made, we see an evolution in the sports landscape. Player-tracking, health and wellness, injury prevention, augmented reality, OTT, gaming, and more are part of the present and future.
Q 2) How important is the use of data analytics in sports? How much of a competitive advantage does it give?
Ans: It's vital. There certainly is subjectivity in the use and value of such data, but it's a critical accessory to sports, the games and the athletes. Entities that know best how to use data have distinct advantages, especially in player development.
Q 3) Do you envision the use of augmented reality, virtual reality and mixed reality as the future of sports? How will it revolutionize fan experience?
Ans: Augmented Reality will be an effective fan engagement tool for clubs and leagues to keep their fans interested and add additional revenue streams. People often use their phones while watching sports, and the second-screen experience is a profitable avenue.
Q 4) How does Optical Tracking provide greater insights about performance of athletes in sports?
Ans: Optical tracking done properly tracks all objects on the field or pitch at all times. As long as we have the data, we can do anything with it. We soon will be able to break down biomechanics for performance and injury prevention and we continue to use such technology to enhance game play and inspect athlete effectiveness relative to their peers.
Q 5) Do you think sports needs to maintain a balance between the use of technology and retaining the spirit of the game?
Ans: It's important the technology is used as an accessory to help improve the game and athletes. There is a fine line between effective use of the tech and abusing the tech.
Q 6) The use of technology in sports has received mixed responses from fans. Do you think it will widen the gap between those who can implement technology to get a competitive edge and those who cannot?
Ans: I think the fans that complain about technology are the ones that don't use or understand technology. You cannot deny the role tech plays in society, and sports are no different. It's about using the best tools we have to engage fans – new and old – and improve the athlete.
Q 7) What would be your message to sporting organizations and individuals who have still not understood the advantages/disadvantages of using technology in sports?
Ans: I think it’s about gaining an education and understanding what’s out there. Technology in sports has evolved so much and so quickly that it requires focus. We need to have people who are well versed with technology, understand how to research them, people with connections in those fields. It’s about enhancing the game, the athlete and the fan experience and the organizations should focus on educating themselves.
