Though sports can be quite simple – one side versus the other in the quest to score more goals/points/runs – it has progressed exponentially throughout the years. Looking back on games of old, it feels like another world.
As technological advancements continue, there are a few that will no doubt have a major impact on the way we watch and enjoy sports going forward. Here are some of the biggest developments.
Improved Communication
We have seen microphones used in sports like football for years. In the years since, they have improved to make communication between players on the field and coaches in the booth a lot smoother. Even communicating with customer service at an online casino like Jackpot City Casino is smoother.
We are even to the point now that video capabilities are being implemented to help athletes of all kinds improve their game. There is nothing like seeing things through the eyes of a quarterback, pitcher, goalie, etc. Film can be reviewed and studied, changes made, and improvements implemented by both players and coaches alike. Being able to communicate in real time also means being able to make changes on the fly in key situations.
GPS Tracking
Global Positioning System (GPS) technology has been around for a while. For the most part, consumers use GPS technology as a way to find their way around cities that they aren’t familiar with or to find shortcuts to a particular destination. As it turns out, there are greater applications to that technology that can have an impact on sports.
Sports like cycling and running already make use of GPS to track things like speed, location, and movement-based metrics. There has been talk of using GPS to track footballs on the field so that imprecise measurements that can hinder ball placement are eliminated. If for no other reason, GPS is a great way to gain tracker data to note movement patterns.
Virtual Reality
Preparation is key in most major sports. Athletes and coaching staffs try to put together as much information as possible to ensure the utmost preparation for game time. Video has traditionally been a great way to find out more about an opponent and film study has become commonplace across most major sports.
Now, augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality systems are helping put players in real game scenarios. Players can be put into specific situations to work on timing, reading plays, and more. Golfers, for instance, can work on their swing. Goalies can use it to improve reaction speed and develop quick decision-making skills.
Video Assistant Referee
One of the most consistent complaints in any sport has to do with officiating. Big calls blown in an important spot can wind up having an impact on the outcome of the game. Referees are naturally imperfect even if they are at the top of their profession. For that reason, video assistant referee technology is being considered for major sports. The technology debuted at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and could find its way into baseball soon.
VAR uses high-quality camera technology, allowing for more precise and accurate decisions. Human error could be eliminated by using this exact technology – as well as video replay systems – to create the most efficient review system. A team of referees can work in an on-site control room to carefully review each play and potentially correct any calls that have been missed.
Technology continues to develop and have an impact on sports. How those developments will impact popular sports like football, baseball, basketball, and hockey, among others, remains to be seen.
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