Technology shapes every area of our lives and experiences. In athletics, spectatorship can make all the difference in the success of an organisation or sport.
Increasing engagement from spectators can lead to increased funding, a higher profile in the community and greater uptake of athletics, both locally and in the wider community. Technology has revolutionised how we engage with athletics – fans no longer have to be physically present to watch their favourite athletes. The spectator experience can be so much more immersive with technology, whether fans are watching from the comfort of their homes or enjoying in person.
Improving Access Through On-Demand and Live Streaming
Improved live streaming technology has made high-quality, immersive, at-home spectating easier than ever before. With high-definition live athletics available at the touch of a button, fans can enjoy an unparalleled experience from the comfort of their own homes. Now, no matter where an event is being held, fans can enjoy the athletics they love from anywhere in the world. This, in turn, grows the sport’s profile and popularity. Increased access can also provide personalisation to the spectator experience – fans can choose from multiple camera angles or turn on stats overlays to help them get really immersed in the action.
Elevating Live Spectatorship with In-Stadium Innovations
For most athletics fans, there’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of live events. The roar of the crowd and the palpable tension create an experience like no other. Emerging technologies have taken the unique in-stadium experience to new heights, creating a truly interactive experience for spectators. Augmented displays allow spectators real-time insights into the athletes’ performances. Innovators like Feldspar will be able to allow spectators to see athletes’ stats using their cutting-edge smart performance running track. This can allow spectators to analyse athletes’ performances in real-time, even without the aid of commentary.
Prioritising Sustainability in Athletics
Sustainability is a hot topic in most industries – we’re all looking at ways we can reduce our environmental footprint. Spectators want to be able to enjoy their favourite sports without worrying about the impact this enjoyment is having on the environment. The use of technology in areas like ticketing has reduced the amount of paper and plastic waste from physical tickets. App ordering food and drinks also helps mitigate food waste – as well as being incredibly convenient for customers. The ability to watch high-quality athletics from your home, via live streaming services, eases the strain on in-person attendance, with the beneficial side effect of lowering emissions from spectators travelling to stadiums in person.
The Future of Technology and Spectator Engagement
As technology moves us forward, we can expect to see more positive implications for the athletics spectator experience. From easier viewing to more immersive experiences, no athletics organisation, large or small, can afford to miss out on the opportunities presented by technology. Increasing the engagement of fans only increases funding and interest in the sports themselves, which will ensure long-term success. The more we invest in our athletics programmes and the fans themselves, the more we will see returns across the board.
