Digital technology has become an indispensable force in shaping the landscape of the sports industry.
This influence extends from transforming athletes’ strategies to elevating the overall fan experience.
The latest trends such as livestreaming technology, social media engagement, online betting, and cutting-edge tools for referees and athletes have redefined how sports are played, watched, and experienced.
One of the most significant advancements in sports technology is the introduction of live streaming.
Unlike in the past, when games were exclusively broadcast on television, fans now have the flexibility to watch live events anytime, anywhere.
Boxing promoter Brico Santig emphasizes the pivotal role of digital platforms.
“Even when we promote our boxing events, we do it through our social media pages if we cannot afford a TV broadcast,” said the Thailand-based Santig, awarded as one of Asia’s best boxing promoters many times by the World Boxing Council.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media has emerged as a powerhouse tool for promoting sporting events.
Fans can effortlessly share information about their favorite teams and athletes, fostering a sense of community and engagement.
The immediacy of social media enables fans to express their thoughts, participate in discussions, and even influence decisions made by sports organizations.
“Now, even powerful sports organizations are pressured to listen to their fans and heed their appeal,” said Marvin Purisima, an avid Gilas Pilipinas fan.
There is no doubt that the fans’ voices on social media have become so big.
After the FIBA World Cup last year, the fans were dissatisfied with the performance of Gilas mentor Chot Reyes. The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas was eventually forced to find a replacement and appointed Tim Cone as the new permanent coach.
SBP said it is leaning to become a sports association that will listen to the fans better.
ONLINE BETTING
Digital technology has also opened up new revenue streams for sports events through online betting.
Apps like ArenaPlus, licensed by the Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation, allow fans to place bets in real-time with a tap on their mobile phones. This not only adds excitement for fans but also contributes to the financial success of sports events.
ArenaPlus offers the latest scores and results from hundreds and thousands of games worldwide, including PBA, NBA, PVL, and more. The ArenaPlus App can be downloaded via Google Play and the App Store.
Some professional team sports have also now benefitted from the latest technology with the use of instant digital replay.
Leagues like the Philippine Basketball Association utilize this technology to review, confirm, or rectify doubtful calls via digital video replay.
In football, Hawk-Eye’s technology, employing three cameras at the goal line, aids referees in determining whether a ball has crossed the line, minimizing errors in crucial decisions.
Athletes themselves benefit significantly from the latest technological innovations.
Golfers now rely on observation instruments that combine precision optics and digital technology to measure distances, offering guidance in club selection.
In advanced countries like the United States, wearable technology monitors athletes’ heart rate, body temperature, lung capacity, and muscle movement during training. Coaches leverage this data to fit training regimens, optimize performance, and prevent injuries.
The deepening synergy between sports and technology promises an exciting future for athletes and fans alike.
