Sports Tech Converge: Drones, AI, and Fan Engagement Take Center Stage at Exclusive Event
Sports Tech Converge, a highly anticipated event held in New York, showcased the intersection of technology and sports, exploring the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The event drew in industry stakeholders who were treated to insightful discussions on topics such as drones, artificial intelligence (AI), the future of sports broadcasting, and fan engagement. Prominent figures from the sports world shared their perspectives, shedding light on the evolving landscape of the industry.
Drone Racing League (DRL) president Rachel Jacobson kickstarted the event with a fireside chat, providing valuable insights into starting a new league amidst rapidly evolving technology. Jacobson emphasized her prioritization of attracting a large audience over immediate financial gains, a strategy that has proven successful. Beginning with races conducted in empty warehouses, DRL has now amassed over five million followers on TikTok and even developed a racing video game that doubles as a training simulator for DRL pilots.
One of the key discussions revolved around the utilization of athlete data to enhance performance. The panel, titled Future Tech and the Athletes of Tomorrow, featured experts from Mustard and Whoop. They discussed how leveraging biometric data, including heart rate monitoring and tracking menstrual cycles, can optimize athletes’ well-being and ultimately improve their performance. This holistic approach to athlete care and recovery is an innovative step towards unlocking their full potential.
Unsurprisingly, the future of broadcasting and streaming sports took center stage, with executives from the NBA, NHL, and MLB engaging in insightful discussions. The panelists expressed optimism about building streaming platforms while navigating existing contracts with Regional Sports Networks (RSN). They acknowledged that although the RSN model is under pressure, the value of local sports rights has never been higher. The discussion also highlighted the enduring appeal of live sports as the advertising landscape undergoes significant changes.
Technology’s influence on fan experience was a crucial topic in the session titled Smart Stadiums and the Digital Arena Revolution. Panelists delved into the potential of using technology, sustainability measures, and customer data to elevate the fan experience and create new revenue streams. With representatives from UBS Arena, MVP Index, and Barclays Center, the conversation showcased how technology can enhance not only the sporting events themselves but also the overall atmosphere for spectators.
As millennials and Gen Z continue to shape the sports consumption landscape, the New Digital Playbook: What’s Next in Social Media session emphasized the need for a tailored approach. Millennials follow teams based on location, while Gen Z gravitates towards individual athletes. The panelists stressed the importance of working directly with athletes and creators to provide a comprehensive perspective on their lives both on and off the field. By adapting to the preferences of these younger demographics, organizations can effectively engage with a broader range of fans.
The Genius Sports: Broadcast Innovation panel further explored the future of sports broadcasting, highlighting the diverse opinions surrounding technology and innovation. Panelists from Second Spectrum, CBS Sports, the NFL, and Everpass Media expressed different viewpoints on how sports broadcasts should evolve. The emphasis was on embracing a range of perspectives to ensure that all stakeholders have a voice in shaping the future of sports media.
Sportico plans to reconvene next month with Invest in Sports, a highly anticipated event that brings together team owners and financiers to discuss growth opportunities within the fast-growing global sports sector. The event promises to provide valuable insights into the financial aspects of the industry and potential avenues for expansion.
Overall, Sports Tech Converge provided a platform for experts and industry leaders to exchange ideas and chart the course for the future of sports technology. By recognizing and capitalizing on the potential of drones, AI, fan engagement, and more, stakeholders can shape an innovative and successful path forward in the ever-evolving sports landscape.
