Technology has profoundly affected practically every industry in the world, and the world of sports is no exception. It has influenced how athletes train and compete, how fans engage and consume content and how world-class venues are constructed.

Here are some ways in which technology has changed the world of sports:

Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation

Any athlete risks the possibility of being injured when they step on the pitch or court. They risk their lives not only for entertainment purposes but for winning. While playing at the highest level, athletes push to the limit and some suffer the consequences of their over-commitment and suffer knocks.

Technology has played a role in judging the seriousness of injuries and even how to prevent injuries with the use use of technology such as the use of sensors. They detect the magnitude of an injury, the likelihood of aggravation of an injury for coaches to make a well-informed decision that impacts the well-being of their athletes.

Technology advancements have also made it possible to find the source of injuries to body parts so that the medical team can offer precise treatment.

NBA star Lebron James uses over $1.5 million annually on his body to maintain his fitness levels and prevent injuries that may alter his performance.

ALSO READ: LeBron James: Net worth, Family and Lifestyle

Instant Replay Technology (IRT)

Sporting activities are rather quick and some details may pass our sights. The use of IRT in sports leagues ensure that referees and match officials can make accurate decisions from watching the replays in slow motion. It enables the match officials to make fair judgements and ensure fair play.

The massive use of this technology in soccer. With the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR), referees can make decisions on whether to award a goal, penalty or set pieces after watching a replay from the VAR screen.

How technology is reshaping the ecosystem in the sports industry. PHOTO: The Independent

Fantasy Sports Leagues

Fan engagement is a pivotal point in sports. Sometimes fans want a more engaging role than just watching their clubs play. Fantasy sports league enhance fan experience as they assume the role of a manager and they select their players and build their squads.

Fantasy football is a good example that betters the fan experience. They build their teams and garner points based on the performance of players they have selected.

Stats and Analytics

Various companies offer an extensive volume of data and information. Users can access data of players, clubs and leagues that have been recorded, thanks to technology. The use of data has influenced club’s philosophy, tactics and style of play. Not only can fans access the ocean of data for further information in the respective sports or players but also teams can now make adjustments based on the big data available.

A perfect example is deduced from the movie Moneyball, about how the Oakland A’s GM, Billy Beane, used data-driven tactics to form and operate the baseball team.

Live Streaming

Live streaming of matches is not a new technology as an alternative to watching live matches on television. Fans can now watch live fixtures from their smartphones. Sports fans are hungry for real-time content and this opportunity could  improve fan experience and engagement.

Sky-Scout Group offered live updates of the football matches during the Young Leaders Tournament in Uganda that took place in March 2021.