Elite Skills Arena (ESA) has created cutting edge technology that is revolutionising injury rehabilitation and player development in football.

ESA is a company that designs and provides advanced football training technology used by top clubs and academies around the world. 

Founded by Eddie Mitchell in 2014, ESA creates innovative tools that help coaches track performance and develop players more effectively.

By combining smart tech with insights from leading coaches, ESA delivers data-driven solutions that improve training and sharpen key skills on the pitch.

When the company first settled on the idea of a circular wall with moving targets, the plan was to create an indoor space where players could work on their technical skills.

What started as a simple concept quickly took shape—so much so that the very first prototype was built in a backyard just to see if it would work.

That early test led to the launch of the first product and the creation of the now-iconic arena that remains a core part of what ESA offers today.

Currently, ESA offers three main product lines: the ICON range, the Wall range, and the Wireless range.

Each one has seen great success with professional clubs, academies, major organisations for marketing and events, and advanced training centres around the world.

Today, ESA products are used on six continents, and they're getting close to a major milestone—1 million games played with their equipment.

But there's one product in particular, the Wireless Circuit, that's revolutionising injury rehab and player development in football.

Now ESA first tested the Circuit concept at Ipswich Town and Southampton Football Clubs in the UK.

But it was FC Barcelona who asked for a wireless version, eliminating the need for connecting cables.

The Wireless Circuit is made up of lightweight, cable-free modules — the Rebound, Pass-Through, and Gate — each featuring LED lights and vibration technology to give instant performance feedback.

Using motion sensors, the modules track passing, movement, and dribbling, while built-in modes recreate tactical game scenarios, making it a powerful tool for both training and recovery.

Since its introduction, the Wireless Circuit has been used extensively by Barcelona's medical team during pre-season and injury rehabilitation.

Stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Agüero and Ronald Araújo have benefitted from its data-driven approach, which benchmarks fitness levels and reduces the risk of re-injury.

The club has used the Wireless Circuit for the later stages of rehabilitation which has allowed players to build up match sharpness without being exposed to the danger of full-contact training.

Following the success at FC Barcelona, the Wireless Circuit has been making waves in the global sports world, having been nominated for Best Technology for Injury Prevention or Rehabilitation at the prestigious Sports Technology Awards.

With more than 50 installations across the globe, it's quickly becoming a go-to choice for clubs and academies looking for reliable, cutting-edge solutions.

With injuries on the rise in elite football and top players spending more time on the sidelines, Premier League clubs are paying closer attention.

Leicester City FC, who’ve been interested in ESA technology for a while, recently added the Wireless Circuit to their sports science program to help monitor player fitness and support injury recovery.

After a successful demo in September 2023, they’ve started using the Rebound, Pass-Through, and Gate modules to help keep first-team players healthy and make rehab smoother and more effective.

Now the Wireless Circuit could offer substantial benefits to soccer clubs and organisations in Australia due to its unique combination of technology, portability, and proven performance outcomes.

Clubs from grassroots to A-League level can often face challenges in managing injuries, especially with limited access to advanced rehab facilities.

The Wireless Circuit enables low-risk, high-impact recovery by allowing players to rebuild match fitness through targeted, non-contact drills. This is particularly valuable in a sport where muscle and ligament injuries are common.

Also, with clubs becoming increasingly data-focused, the Wireless Circuit’s built-in motion sensors and instant feedback allow coaches to track a players movement, passing and dribbling

This gives coaches a more scientific, structured approach to player development, something especially useful in youth programs and academies.

So, as football continues to evolve, ESA’s Wireless Circuit stands at the forefront, offering a smarter, safer, and more effective way to train, recover, and develop the next generation of players.

The post ESA’s Game-Changing Technology for Injury Recovery and Player Growth appeared first on Soccerscene.

Football Australia (FA) has today inked a landmark deal with telecommunications heavyweight Superloop (ASX: SLC) in a massive boost for the prestigious Hahn Australia Cup competition.

The telco challenger has secured naming rights as the official category partner for the Cup and also committed to revolutionising the sports broadcast capabilities through cutting-edge AI technology.

Superloop founded in 2014, is an Australian telecommunications company and internet service provider (ISP) that offers high speed connectivity to consumers with NBN deals and new AI connectivity.

The Hahn Australia Cup will benefit enormously from Superloop's involvement as the telco giant looks to bolster its brand presence among the football market.

The multi-faceted deal will see Superloop deliver bespoke connectivity solutions, including business-grade NBN internet and mobile data services and AI technology cameras distributed to fields around the country.

This will support not just live broadcasts but also real-time collection of match and player statistics.

Football Australia CEO James Johnson described the collaboration as a pivotal moment in FA’s digital transformation.

"In today's connected world, high-speed, reliable internet infrastructure is paramount. Superloop's expertise and technology will allow us to deliver a more dynamic and engaging live streaming experience to fans nationwide, while unlocking cost efficiencies and new revenue streams for the sport," Johnson said via FA official press release.

Already, Darwin Football Stadium has been kitted out with Superloop's dedicated high-speed NBN connectivity, powering 4K resolution streams of all Men's and Women's Premier League fixtures.

The agreement blends well for Football Australia's recent centralisation of live production and distribution for over 3,500 matches annually, spanning state leagues to flagship national competitions.

Superloop Group Executive for Business & Wholesale, Daisy Stampfer, highlighted the company's commitment to Australian sport.

"We recognise the transformative power of connectivity in sports broadcasting and are committed to delivering the high-performance network solutions that will power FA's vision for the future of football streaming."

"Our exclusive sponsorship of the Hahn Australia Cup and our connectivity partnership with Football Australia underscores our dedication to supporting the growth and innovation of Australian grassroots sport," Stampfer said via official FA press release.

This is a huge new step for Australian Football at all levels giving all clubs in the country and competitions support with the streamlined viewership nationally to enhance the game at little cost for the clubs.

For businesses such as Superloop, the football community is an untapped industry for them to help develop, market and stand out.

The footballing environment creates great publicity for the company and enduring respect in the community for future endeavours.

The strategic relationship promises a new era of digital engagement with the beautiful game, from suburban pitches to national showcases.

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Rezzil is a leading sports technology business paving the way for Virtual Reality integration into real-life professional football training.

Originally based in Manchester, England - Rezzil has since grown exponentially, partnering with multiple elite level football clubs, and expanding into new domains such as, American football, basketball and Formula 1.

The organisation has achieved such success through its innovative, unique and effective VR training programs and games, designed for businesses, clubs and everyday people.

Programs for Clubs

Rezzil offers a wealth of resources for clubs aiming to track and enhance player performance, chief among these is Rezzil Index.

Index is a VR program which tests players across a range of situations and drills to analyse their quick thinking, awareness, technical skill, and more. Through Index, clubs can use the information gained through tests to rapidly benchmark and track how their players improve or regress across time.

To make the technology truly applicable to clubs, Rezzil prides itself on how quickly Index can analyse a player. An Index run can be completed in 20 minutes, and the information is instantly sent to a secure database where it can be accessed in real time.

Data can be extracted raw, or it can be viewed as Rezzil's very own Index player report cards - displaying information across a series of simple metrics.

In addition to Index, Rezzil also operates exar.live - a post-match analysis tool which compiles data from optical tracking hardware such as Hawkeye, Second Spectrum and Tracab to create 3D or VR recreations of games. Since its creation, exar.live has found success through being adopted by EPL clubs like Manchester City and broadcasters such as Sky Sports.

Programs for Everyone 

Alongside its elite level programs, Rezzil has also entered the consumer market with a variety of unique VR programs.

Chief among Rezzil's offerings is Rezzil Player. Previously a club only program, Rezzil Player is an advanced training system with over 160 different repeatable training drills and situations designed to test reaction speed and player skills.

Through Rezzil Player, users can assess their performance via data sheets and track how they are improving as they play and repeat the drills.

However, Rezzil Player is not Rezzil's only consumer game. Launched late last year, Premier League Player is the EPL's first officially licensed VR game and transports users onto the pitches of their favourite teams.

Available on Meta Quest, users can create their own avatars, or step into the shoes of beloved premier league stars and replay through highlights of the 2023/24 season.

Furthermore, Rezzil has also developed the VR game Hexball for Meta Quest. Hexball is a fast-paced three player arena football game inspired by successful market leaders such as Rocket League. In Hexball, players compete against each other to score the most goals possible within tight environments.

Conclusion 

Rezzil has consistently demonstrated its tenacity and commitment to the cutting edge across all of its products, earning it a plethora of high-value partnerships across the world.

In the football world, Rezzil has fostered collaborations with globally renowned clubs such as Manchester City, Liverpool and Juventus, and with the English Premier League itself.

However, Rezzil has also made an impact across a range of other sports, garnering partnerships with the National Basketball Association, Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, Red Bull Racing and more.

Additionally, the organisation has expanded into the United States, establishing a new headquarters in the country.

In conclusion, Rezzil is a world leader in the application of VR in sport and has consistently shown its capacity to supply and support the most demanding of clients, highlighting the organisation's professionalism and aptitude.

The post Rezzil VR: Integrating Virtual Reality in Sports appeared first on Soccerscene.

Football Path X recently hit the app store internationally, building on the connectivity of potential players from amateur to professional with clubs around the world.

Azur Omerovic has been one of key members of the Football Path X (FPX) team through its recent growth.

As head of partnerships, Azur sat down with Soccerscene to talk about the exciting journey of the company and the plans they hold for Football Path X’s future.

How did Football Path X come about?

Azur Omerovic: It all started with our CEO Rajan Zejnuni, he travelled with his wife Naava Garreth, to her home country of Uganda. For most of Africans, football is way out of poverty. Same can be seen in South America such as Brazil, though the scale and communication logistics for players with footballing ambitions is a big obstacle. Especially in the largest and most competitive footballing continent, Europe.

Rajan had talked with players and coaches who shared how difficult is to find a club locally and how much they struggle when it comes to international showcasing. Their players were left behind unless they were rich and very well connected. The players used Instagram, TikTok and YouTube to try and showcase their skills but there was little evidence of success by using these general forms of social media. FPX centralises all activities and game opportunity to individuals so it can tell complete stories about themselves and achieve, not just local, but international reach.

How did you personally get involved?

Azur Omerovic: I have played and coached at a good level before and know a lot about football. I have also had a lot of experience in business development and partnerships. I got in contact with Rajan after he published his first promo video on Facebook and announced MPV to go live. Since we both share similar values and passion, we decided to continue building FPX together.

Also in our team is my sister Amila Omerovic who is head of Player Development at FPX and has played professionally in the US and represented Croatia. Eldan Alomerovic, a brilliant designer whose creativity makes our ideas come to life, ensuring a seamless and visually stunning user experience. Assem Ragab, our Product Manager, is an IT professional and has worked in some of the biggest IT Companies such as Oracle, IBM, SAP, Meta and Tesla, at these companies he developed several products and in FPX Assem oversees product commercialisation and gamification.

So what is Football Path X and what gives it the advantage in this competitive market?

Azur Omerovic: The market is flooded with apps for individuals who can afford spending around $17 AUD a month (€10), and even then, there is little value since the major problems are not solved on a large scale. FPX is not just a mobile app - The mobile app is our first product and next year we will be publishing other digital products. This will create a set of services and products that make us a platform where all football life circles for each individual and entity (club, league) is covered.

A central part is the social part, or how people interact. FPX is huge step towards providing digital football solutions for all players and staff of clubs, equipping them with cutting-edge technology to enhance their skills, increase their visibility, and connect with the global football community and our rapidly growing platform.

[caption id="attachment_29394" align="alignnone" width="300"] Football Path X logo. (Image supplied by Azur Omerovic)[/caption]

What is the premium package of club management?

Azur Omerovic: For this upgrade it will be built around a club dynamic. We digitalise all football activities: Staff management, event tracking e.g. Match scheduling and tracking, training scheduling and coach-player feedback including statistical aspect of players, coaches, team and club performance. Clubs will gain complete overview of all activities and eliminate unstructured communication which consumes so much time, and this communication can be held directly, via WhatsApp and even recorded with pen and paper.

We can help digitalise clubs, which will include expert insights into training techniques and club issues from field professionals both at FPX and through over users in the App. The platform will be a football marketplace where experts and rising football stars meet, exchange knowledge and professionals can offer their services. Coaches, Scouts, Agents and other professionals like Psychologists will have their place and role on our platform.

Part of the Club Management option is a marketing package which enables clubs to interact with fans via sharing material generated in the app. Fans will get real time results and stay up to date with the club’s news like live scores or announcements. Club Management is an important brick in building this bridge, the bridge that connects demand and needs.

[caption id="attachment_29395" align="alignnone" width="300"] Features of Football Path X. (Image supplied by Azur Omerovic)[/caption]

What is going to be the process to get clubs onto the premium package of club management?

Azur Omerovic: We have strong football network that includes around 1500 coaches around the world who have personal and professional relationships with our team and our partners. Product will be presented to them, and we believe that their leagues will get involved with our concept as well, since no one wants to stay behind. Of course, we will reach out to clubs if we notice high number of players who use the platform for personal purposes.

We are also invited to The World Football Summit which will take place in Madrid this Autumn. From this we will get direct connection with the biggest football organisations like FIFA and UEFA. This event will be the showcase for our official Club Management announcement.

Who can join Football Path X and Is there a targeted consumer?

Azur Omerovic: Though professionals are welcome to the app, 99% of footballers are amateur, semi-professional and veteran players. We believe that these players are the key. A lot of lower level clubs have the funds or ability of professional structures. So, we can offer them a system with low price and good quality. Academies are also the perfect centre for FPX to connect upcoming players in these programs to explore opportunities.

As FPX is solely football focused, parents can help manage their kids careers and represent them until they are mature enough to take over their accounts. FPX also allows their kids to get the app to communicate in a footballing environment and not get overwhelmed by the other aspects of the mainstream social media apps out there.

Only 6% of all players right now are women, we match this in our own statistics as well, with Amila Omerovic as head of Football Development it’s a central focus of FPX to increase this number.

Has Football Path X been interested in the Australian market? 

Azur Omerovic: Football is developing in Australia and 10 football clubs from Australia use the current free version already. It’s a sport that is expanding professionally but has an extensive semi-pro and amateur presence. Australia is also a digitalised country, so people don’t have an issue with using apps for communication and it integrates well into the Australian way of life.

For us it’s a huge market to get into and can be a huge advantage for most of the Australian footballing community. Since the publicity of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup the Women’s football market has exploded in Australia and is an exciting development for us.

How have you been engaged in the Australian Market?

Azur Omerovic: Football Path X is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Australasian Soccer Academy from Sydney. At the heart of this collaboration is Tony Basha, the Chairman of Australasian Soccer Academy. His passion for football, his club and the community has deeply resonated with us. Regardless of gender or age, it is a great opportunity for all.

Tony and his academy are a respected and known academy in Europe and internationally. A true visionary, Tony recognises the power of technology in elevating football talent and has been instrumental in fostering this partnership. We are delighted to work alongside him and look forward to a long-lasting relationship that will transform football in Australia.

We encourage all players and clubs in Australia to get the app and contribute to the growing community.

[caption id="attachment_29392" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Tony Basha CEO of The Australasian Football Academy. (Image provided by Azur Omerovic).[/caption]

How is Football Path X currently tracking?

Azur Omerovic: More than 2500 players and coaches from 120 clubs use our app even though we are just around 5 months on the market. Based on the last few weeks of the growth rate, we expect to hit the 100 000 user mark by the end of the year.

Late last year FPX team had the annual Web summit in Lisbon, where we connected to similar organisations in the digital and footballing industry. We were even approached by some famous football clubs including Atletico Madrid and Benfica.

The FPX team are keen to develop these relationships and adapt them into the app experience.

What does the future hold for Football Path X?

Azur Omerovic: The Management premium package first phase of the app is out now. We will go live early in July with a Beta version and finalise it until 1st of September. We are based primarily in Europe, with our central office in Vienna, Austria. So, Europe will continue to be a base of operations and our app’s primary focus for opportunities.

For the app to grow however, we are keen to keep pushing the app in the Australian market and expand to get more partners in South America, The US and to all countries. We already have users from 146 countries in the world.

We are driven to have FPX be the app that can connect the footballing world from the most amateur to the highest professional players, academies and clubs.

The post Exclusive Interview With Football Path X’s Azur Omerovic: “Football Path X Will Digitally Revolutionise The Footballing World” appeared first on Soccerscene.

Football Victoria (FV) has rolled out an innovative bodycam pilot for referees in grassroots football, making it the first state or territory in Australia to participate in this initiative.

This trial is part of a global initiative approved by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) to see if body-worn cameras can help reduce abuse, encourage better behaviour, and make referees feel safer.

Supported by Football Australia and in partnership with Reveal Media, the pilot builds on a successful 2023 trial.

In that earlier run, 66.1% of referees said player behaviour improved, and 57.1% felt the cameras helped cut down on abuse.

Notably, there were no reports of physical abuse during the trial, even though more than half of the referees had experienced it in the past.

Many also found that simply warning players they were about to activate the camera helped calm things down.

This is a tightly controlled trial under IFAB’s guidelines, meaning strict rules are in place.

Referees will only wear cameras in approved grassroots competitions, and they'll only turn them on in serious situations such as if there’s a threat to safety or major misconduct.

All video is owned by the national football association, kept encrypted, and deleted within 60 days. Referees receive training on how to use the cameras and must let players know before activating them.

Only authorised people can review the footage, and only in cases involving serious incidents. Around 100 grassroots referees across Victoria will take part in this first phase.

They'll be supported with training and resources, and if the trial goes well, the program could roll out to more adult grassroots leagues in 2025.

FV CEO Dan Birrell shared some details regarding the bodycams before their launch.

“We invest significantly in Referee Development and truly value the incredible work of our referees every week," he said in a press release

"The launch will coincide perfectly with the start of our community competition season, so we’re looking forward to seeing the cameras in action right away."

FV Head of Referees, Tony Peart shared his delight with the new initiative.

“I’m absolutely delighted our referees are the first in the country to trial bodycams and support this important national project," he said in the same press release

"This trial could be key to enhancing protection for officials and improving the environment in which they officiate."

Football Victoria will keep tracking and assessing the trial’s impact to strengthen its dedication to creating a safer and more respectful football community.

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STATSports, a top player tracking company, has launched ‘Apex 2.0’—a new GPS tracker helping coaches at elite sports teams to boost player durability. Among its users are Premier League leaders Liverpool, known for their strong injury record this season.

Top athletes are now less likely to get injured thanks to a cutting-edge tracker using AI and military-grade GPS.

Custom, award-winning AI software offers advanced biomechanical analysis to improve running form and optimise movement—helping coaches spot injury risks early and uncover untapped athletic potential.

Apex 2.0 uses military-grade RTK and GNSS satellite systems to deliver highly accurate data. This precision helps coaches, players, and analysts better manage training loads, reducing error and lowering injury risk.

Furthermore, Apex 2.0 also compares players’ current stats with their past performance data. It provides real-time feedback during training and matches, aiding in injury prevention.

With its new AI-powered tech, STATSports has introduced ‘Sprint Split Analysis’ and ‘Force Velocity’—profiling tools that pinpoint speed weaknesses in players and offer quick improvement tips. These features eliminate the need for traditional timing gates, saving clubs money while helping unlock more athletic potential.

The data is delivered faster than ever—crucial for on-field coaching decisions. Thanks to Cloud technology, player tracker data uploads instantly to a central database, accessible and editable from any web browser—an industry first. This enables coaches and sports scientists to respond quickly to player load, enhancing both individual and team care.

Apex 2.0 has also been adopted by PSG, Arsenal, Manchester City, and the England national team, along with rugby’s All Blacks and Springboks, the NFL’s Washington Commanders, and MLB’s LA Dodgers highlighting its wide-ranging versatility.

STATSports Co-Founder, Sean O’Connor, highlights the importance of accurate training data and explains how its advanced AI and satellite technology revolutionising coaching and injury prevention.

“For too long now we have heard athletes’ stories of being over or undertrained – albeit unknowingly – at high speed and over long distances because the data a sports scientist is seeing live is simply not accurate. The cumulative effects of this incorrect loading over the course of a season, let alone a career, do not bear thinking about,” he said via press release.

“This is why we are proud to roll-out Apex 2.0 to some of the biggest and most recognisable names in world sport – including Liverpool, who have one of the best injury records of any team in the Premier League this season. The accuracy and reliability of the data produced by Apex 2.0 is unmatched anywhere.”

Apex 2.0 is widely recognised as a game-changer for player performance over the next decade. Its FIFA Quality award proves STATSports' position as one of the few providers with a 'gold standard' across all data areas, setting it apart from its closest competitors.

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Football Victoria (FV) is excited to announce its partnership with AquaMe, with cutting-edge hydration technology for the next generation of upcoming footballers.

AQUAME is a cutting-edge smart water bottle system designed to meet the demands of today’s athletes. By combining advanced sensor technology with a sleek, user-friendly design, AQUAME supports personalised hydration management tailored to individual needs.

FV’s Executive Manager of Commercial, Chris Speldewinde, welcomed the partnership with open arms.

‘We’re thrilled to be aligning with AQUAME, whose focus on innovation and athlete well-being aligns perfectly with our academy’s mission to prepare players for the highest level,” he said via press release.

As part of the onboarding process, each FV Academy player has received their own AQUAME 2.0 Smart Water Bottle, along with access to the AQUAME PRO App.

This innovative system empowers players to track and maintain their hydration—from pre-training preparation to post-match recovery—using the same elite tools trusted by professional clubs such as Valencia CF, Deportivo Alavés, and the Mexico National Team.

By analysing both real-time and historical hydration data, AQUAME helps address the risks of both over- and under-hydration, ensuring each athlete maintains optimal hydration levels.

This data-driven approach provides deeper insights into the causes of dehydration, enabling teams to take proactive steps and prevent issues before they occur.

The integration of AQUAME into the FV Academy program marks a proactive step in equipping young athletes for the demands of high-performance sport, while promoting lifelong healthy hydration habits.

AQUAME Executive Steve Xie also shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the shared commitment to athlete wellbeing and innovation.

“Partnering with Football Victoria allows us to support the next wave of football talent with technology proven to enhance performance and recovery,” he said via press release.

To mark the launch of this exciting collaboration, AQUAME is also offering all Football Victoria families an exclusive 10% discount on the AQUAME 2.0 Smart Water Bottle and App.

Use code FOOTBALLVIC at checkout via the link below to access a special offer and experience the latest innovative technology in hydration.

AquaMe x FV Special Offer

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Football NSW has confirmed a three-year partnership with the world's leading AI-powered sports camera company VEO, aiming to transform how football is viewed and shared across the state.

Football NSW has teamed up with Veo in a new partnership that will enhance its high-performance and talent development programs across the state.

Programs such as the State Teams, Talent Support Program (TSP), and Future Sapphires will now have access to Veo’s cutting-edge technology and tools, supporting player development through better performance analysis and insights.

As part of the deal, these programs will be equipped with the latest Veo Cam 3 5G cameras, along with access to a suite of Veo software, including Veo Analytics, Veo Live for live streaming, Veo Editor for video breakdown, and Player Spotlight to highlight individual performances.

The partnership also introduces the “Veo League Exchange” across competitions like the NPL NSW, Football NSW Leagues, Youth Leagues, and Futsal Premier Leagues.

This platform allows clubs to upload, share, and study match footage, giving coaches and players valuable tools to learn, improve, and raise the overall standard of competition.

Football NSW CEO John Tsatsimas expressed his delight and excitement with the newly formed partnership with Veo.

“Veo are an excellent resource for the game, and I am delighted to see this partnership help and assist our Football NSW clubs and the wider football and futsal community,” he said via press release.

“With the game constantly evolving, Veo provides a unique opportunity for clubs to increase the analytical side with the aim to further improve training and match day tactics."

ANZ Market Manager at Veo Technologies Tenzing Tsewang was also looking forward to partnering with Football NSW.

“This partnership with Football NSW is a milestone in our mission to support the future of football in Australia,” he said via press release.

“We’re already working with an incredible lineup of clubs across NSW, and this collaboration allows us to expand that impact — giving more coaches, players, and families access to the tools they need to develop, improve, and tell their stories.”

As a part of the partnership, Football NSW and Veo will release a series of initiatives that include exclusive access to Veo products, hands-on workshops, special pricing for clubs, and tailored support for technical and performance staff.

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In the world of modern football, data is king. And while professional clubs have long used GPS wearables to analyse every sprint and tactical movement, young players have often been left behind until now. The Apex Athlete Series by STATSports is changing the game, bringing elite-level tracking technology into the hands of aspiring footballers across Australia and beyond.

Already FIFA-approved for match use, the Apex wearable has become the most advanced and reliable performance tracker available to grassroots athletes. Whether you’re aiming for a professional career or simply looking to take your game to the next level, this is the kind of tool that bridges the gap between weekend warrior and world-class competitor.

A Wearable Built for Serious Footballers

The Apex Athlete Series isn’t just another piece of fitness tech. It’s the same technology trusted by clubs in the English Premier League and national teams around the globe, tailored for accessibility. Designed to capture every training session and match in detail, it gives players an unmatched level of insight into their performance.

From total distance covered and max speed to high-speed running and intensity levels, Apex provides a clear picture of how hard you're working and where you can improve. It’s football data — but for real people.

Real-Time Stats

One of Apex’s standout features is its ability to deliver real-time insights across 16 core metrics. That includes everything from sprint counts and heat maps to strain levels and positional data. The platform also benchmarks individual performance against standards seen at academy and professional levels, helping players understand what’s required to rise through the ranks.

And it doesn’t stop at the numbers. With a beautifully designed mobile app, players can view post-session breakdowns instantly and track progression over time. It’s intuitive, detailed and made to empower development from the ground up.

Introducing Pro Score – A New Way to Measure Your Game

Forget fantasy football ratings — Pro Score is a revolutionary new feature that distils all your data into one easy-to-understand performance rating. Each STATSports ambassador, including the likes of Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane, has their own Pro Score, giving players real-world targets to chase.

As your fitness, workload and match intensity improve, so does your score. For younger athletes, it provides a motivational benchmark that tracks genuine, physical development — not opinion, not guesswork, just performance.

See the Bigger Picture with Performance Trends

The Apex app isn’t just about short-term wins. It’s built to help athletes and coaches see the bigger picture. With trend tracking over weeks, months and even seasons, players can monitor training loads, recovery, and intensity to ensure sustainable development.

Whether you're preparing for finals or managing your off-season, these insights help you train smarter and avoid the risk of overtraining or injury.

Compete Against the World

With global leaderboards built directly into the platform, Apex adds a competitive edge that few other wearables can offer. Players can compare their stats with others from around the world across categories like max speed, high-speed running and total distance.

And if your numbers are good enough, you might just find yourself ranked alongside some of the fittest players in the game. It’s a social, gamified layer of performance analysis — and it’s incredibly motivating.

Impressive study results

Recent studies have backed up Apex’s impact on performance. After just six weeks of using the device, players saw an average increase of 9.4% in max speed, 13.6% in high-speed running, and 12.3% in match intensity.

Those aren’t small gains. They’re game-changers for players looking to step up and stay ahead.

The Only Wearable with Flawless Live Data

Where most wearables lag or drop out during intense action, Apex delivers 100% identical live and post-session data quality. That level of precision allows coaches and players to make instant decisions with full confidence.

Multiple coaches can even monitor different players or full squads simultaneously, each with access to their own live dashboard. Whether you're coaching a junior academy or managing a senior side, the system scales to suit your needs.

Conclusion

The Apex Athlete Series by STATSports is more than just a wearable — it’s a complete performance ecosystem. By combining elite-grade data with real-world usability, it empowers the next generation of footballers to understand, monitor and improve their game like never before.

In an increasingly competitive sporting landscape, tools like Apex aren’t a luxury — they’re a necessity. For players, coaches and parents who are serious about long-term development, this is the future of football performance tracking.

The post STATSports Apex Athlete: Track like a Pro appeared first on Soccerscene.

Football Queensland has announced that it has extended it’s partnership with Social Protect, an online safeguarding software that aim’s to help protect referees from online abuse.

This expansion comes after the successful launch of Social Protect with NPL Queensland clubs last year, where it has already made a positive impact in reducing harmful online behaviour.

By extending the service to match officials, Football Queensland is taking another important step in creating a safer and more respectful environment for everyone involved in the game.

Robert Cavallucci emphasises Football Queensland's firm stance against abuse towards referees.

“Football Queensland has a zero-tolerance policy against abusive behaviour towards referees, and the introduction of Social Protect demonstrates the proactive measures we are taking to actively protect our match officials in line with the Protect Our Game initiative,” he said via press release.

“As our game continues to grow, it is more important than ever that we create a positive and safe environment for our match officials across the state, so we’re proud to offer this service to our Queensland referees free of charge to guard against harmful content and abuse across their social media accounts.”

Social Protect offers an easy-to-use mobile app that helps keep social media spaces safe by automatically removing harmful comments. It targets things like cyberbullying, hate speech, racial slurs, and scams, making online spaces more positive and respectful.

The app includes helpful features such as a quarantine zone where flagged comments can be reviewed before being permanently removed.

It also offers educational resources to help users understand online safety, along with multi-lingual support to better detect harmful content in different languages.

Designed for both individuals and organisations, Social Protect is a smart tool for creating safer, more inclusive online communities.

Shane Britten commends Football Queensland for expanding Social Protect to referees statewide, calling it a strong commitment to proactively tackling online abuse.

"Football Queensland’s decision to expand the Social Protect solution to referees across the state shows their commitment to providing proactive protection from online abuse,” he said via press release.

“We are proud to be working with a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises the wellbeing and mental health of their entire network.”

For more information on how to access the Social Protect software if you are a Queensland Referee, you can directly contact the Football Queensland’s referee team via referees@footballqueensland.com.au

To find out more about Social Protect, click here.

The post Football Queensland’s New Initiative for Referee Safety appeared first on Soccerscene.

Amid the sports revolution in the Middle East, sKora Tech is a Qatari AI technology startup developing platforms for footballers to launch their professional careers.

Founded in 2020 by Adel Saad, the former Chief Technology Officer of Kora Stars Sports Agency, (a player representation agency which incorporates AI into its work), he has assisted in propelling sKora Tech onto the global state.

Residing within the world-renowned Qatar Science and Technology Park in Al-Rayyan, sKora has engineered its own AI, known as sKora.AI, to guide the next generation of players.

Through its AI, sKora aims to democratise football by offering aspiring players a way to more consistently reach the top echelons of the sport without relying on expensive training advice and regimes from elite coaches and clubs. Via this goal, sKora hopes to even the playing field and reduce the barriers to entry, enabling players from countries with less representation on the global stage to break through.

sKora Player Platform

When players become a part of the sKora network they submit their athletic and performance data to be analysed by sKora's AI. Once the AI has computed through the data, sKora generates a player profile for each footballer known as a "Pro Player CV".

This profile transforms a player's data into a marketable suite of information for interested clubs and scouts, featuring a range of information such as a player's footballing history, their individual characteristics and skills.

Additionally, these profiles highlight key metrics players are proficient at, but also showcase what areas they have room for improvement in.

This latter part is especially relevant for sKora, as the organisation prides itself on providing a unique roadmap for each player to help them improve.

This roadmap is tailored by a range of factors and aims to guide players to improve their pitfalls and maximise their strengths, in order to increase their proficiency and marketability at a professional level.

All of these features can be accessed readily at any time on sKora Tech's very own app, known as the sKora App. In addition, players can share clips of their performances on the app, allowing them to further entice potential scouts.

Global Impact

As a Qatar based organisation, sKora was on display in in the lead up to and during the Qatar World Cup 2022, showcasing the country's and the wider region's rapid ascension in the sport's technology sphere as a competitive force.

Across this period, sKora's was repeatedly recognised for its work and technological innovation, winning the Hamad Bin Khalifa University Industrial Innovation Fund in 2021, and featuring as a finalist in the 2022 KPMG Private Enterprise Tech Innovator in Qatar and the 2021 Startup of the Year Award and Founder of the Year Award by Global Startup Awards.

Since then, sKora has continued to excel, accruing major partners as it seeks to support football's major 300 million plus community of players.

Notably, sKora Tech achieved a partnership with enterprise AI organisation, GPTBots.Ai in late September last year. GTPBots.Ai is a significant player within the AI business market, providing organisations with assistance in implementing and integrating AI models and AI agents across a range of departments such as human resources, data analysis, customer service and more.

Conclusion

Recognised by a range of global institutions and boosted by new major global partnerships, sKora Tech has quickly become a significant presence within the football technology industry.  Furthermore, the organisation features the ability to continue to grow via its Pro Player CV service and unique player roadmaps, all supported by the company's very own sKora.AI.

For more information on sKora Tech, check out their website.

The post sKora Tech: AI Innovations for Future Athletes appeared first on Soccerscene.

Atlético de Madrid has extended is partnership with Google Cloud until 2027, renewing its collaboration for an additional two seasons.

The alliance primarily focuses on cybersecurity services, delivering essential digital infrastructure support for Atlético’s men’s and women’s teams while enhancing the club’s technological strategy amid the growing digital demands of professional football.

Cybersecurity: A Key Priority for Modern Football Clubs

Amid evolving cyber threats and the increasing reliance on data-driven operations in elite football, Atlético de Madrid has made cybersecurity a cornerstone of its digital transformation. Its extended partnership with Google Cloud ensures continued access to:

• Backup and Disaster Recovery (DR) services
• Operational system protection
• Data integrity assurance
• Infrastructure for ticketing, digital access control, and in-stadium digital signage

This robust infrastructure underpins both daily operations and essential fan-facing systems, safeguarding business continuity and security, particularly during high-traffic matchdays.

Cybersecurity in Football: Safeguarding Data, Fans, and Performance

Atlético de Madrid’s use of Google Cloud technology is vital in protecting:

• Fan data, especially during e-commerce and ticketing transactions
• Team performance and tactical analysis, which are increasingly proprietary and commercially sensitive
• In-stadium systems, including electronic access control and digital screens

By strengthening its digital defences, Atlético not only reduces the risk of disruption but also fosters trust among fans, partners, and stakeholders in an increasingly connected matchday environment.

Women’s Team Pioneering Cybersecurity Adoption

Last season, Atlético de Madrid’s women’s team became the first to implement Google Cloud’s full cybersecurity services, serving as a pilot before expanding to the men’s teams in the coming seasons. This phased rollout ensures a structured integration, providing all departments with the same high-level cybersecurity infrastructure.

Since the partnership began, Atlético de Madrid and Google Cloud have crafted tailored cybersecurity solutions designed to address the unique challenges of modern sports organisations, including real-time response capabilities for system failures or external attacks.

As Atlético de Madrid continues to shape the way in digital transformation, its extended partnership with Google Cloud allows the club to remain at the forefront of cyber security, protecting both its players and fans while setting a new standard for the future of football.

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Mingle Sport is designed to take the hassle out of team management, providing grassroots clubs with the tools they need to operate seamlessly and efficiently.

With three features: Team Management, Performance Tracking, and Scorekeeping. Mingle Sport brings a professional-level experience to local teams. Here's a closer look at how each feature can enhance your club's operations.

1. Team Management:

Keeping a team well-organised requires more than just setting a match schedule. Mingle Sport helps coaches and managers save time, improve communication, and keep everything in one place.

Key Features:

Match & Training Scheduling – Plan all upcoming fixtures, training sessions, and team events in one place. Add locations, arrival times, and additional notes for complete clarity.

RSVP System – Know exactly who’s attending each session or match. No more last-minute confusion—ensure your squad is always prepared.

Transport Coordination – Arrange carpooling and ridesharing within the app, making sure no player is left without a lift.

Attendance Insights – Track attendance trends and understand why players miss sessions, helping coaches improve participation.

Team Chat & DMs – Keep all team communication within Mingle Sport. Share updates in the official team chat, send direct messages, or comment on specific training sessions.

Minutes Played Tracking – Keep a record of each player’s game time to ensure fair rotations and better performance assessment.

Automated Reminders – Reduce no-shows by sending automated RSVP reminders. If a player can't attend, they can provide a reason within the app.

Formation Builder – Create your ideal team lineup with a drag-and-drop formation builder, whether for an 11-a-side match or a five-a-side tournament.

For those who like a desktop-friendly experience, Mingle Sport Homebase acts as an advanced planning hub. It allows coaches to analyse trends in training attendance, track minutes played and manage lineups more efficiently.

2. Performance Tracking:

Statistics aren’t just for professionals—Mingle Sport brings the power of data-driven performance analysis to grassroots teams. By tracking key player and team stats, coaches and players alike can measure progress, compare results, and compete for top rankings.

Key Features:

Team & Player Stats – Keep track of match scores, goal differences, win ratios, and overall team performance.

Leaderboards – Rank players and teams based on their stats, fostering healthy competition.

Player Voting – After each match, vote for three key players:

MVP (Most Valuable Player) – The standout performer of the game.

Playmaker – The most creative and influential player.

Workhorse – The hardest-working player who put in the most effort.

Personalised Player Profiles – Each player gets a dedicated profile tracking goals, assists, match highlights, and past performances. Compare stats with previous seasons to track improvements over time.

Performance Metrics (Coming Soon) – Mingle Sport is working on exciting new features to measure shot quality, top speed, stamina, and other key performance indicators.

Attendance Tracking – Monitor individual player attendance across matches and training sessions, helping coaches manage commitment levels.

Goal Trends – Get insights into your team’s scoring patterns over the season.

Win Ratio Analysis – Identify trends in match results—does your team perform better at home or away? Against specific opponents? Use these insights to fine-tune strategies.

With all these features available in one platform, Mingle Sport makes it easier than ever to track, analyse, and improve player and team performance.

3. Scorekeeping:

Keeping track of match statistics shouldn’t be complicated. Mingle Sport’s scorekeeping tools allow teams to record match events in real time, track player contributions, and share updates with fans and followers.

Key Features:

Goals & Assists Tracking – Keep an accurate record of every goal and assist, with the data automatically updating leaderboards and season stats.

Cards & Substitutions – Log yellow cards, red cards, and player substitutions for a complete match report.

Minutes Played – Use the in-app match timer to track each player’s time on the pitch.

Live Scoring & Match Reports – Share real-time match updates within the app or online, allowing followers to keep up with the action.

Match Ratings & MVP Voting – After each game, players can rate the match from 1 to 5 stars and vote for standout performers.

Season Trends & Team Awards – Identify long-term trends in goal ratios, win percentages, and other crucial team statistics. Recognise top performers with awards like Top Scorer of the Month.

For deeper match analysis, Mingle Sport Homebase on desktop allows coaches to take a detailed look at season statistics, match ratings, and player performance trends.

Conclusion

Mingle Sport isn’t just another team management app—it’s a game-changer for grassroots football. With a focus on efficiency, engagement, and performance tracking, it provides local teams with the tools they need to operate like the pros.

From scheduling and communication to live scorekeeping and performance stats, Mingle Sport brings everything together in one powerful and easy-to-use platform. Whether you’re a coach, manager, or player, this app ensures your team runs smoothly—both on and off the pitch.

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Spanish sports product company Yoomedoo is a successful startup that has achieved widespread acclaim across the country for its work with professional clubs and the grassroots football scene.

Utilising technology, Yoomedoo is charged with ambition to democratise sport by providing player across all levels with the tools and information they need to become better, more proficient athletes. Additionally, Yoomeedoo works to supply clubs across the amateur, junior, academy and professional elite level with what they need to perform better than ever.

Powering Yoomeedoo to support clubs and players is their FIFA certified GPS tracker - the Yoomedoo Sports Tracker v3.

The v3 Tracker 

Situated in a skintight vest that fits under a team kit, the v3 is a lightweight and unobtrusive device, weighing only 36 grams. Through this, players can still compete at their best while the device is fully operational, allowing for premium data without compromising performance.

To provide players and clubs with a wide range of playing statistics, the v3 features the following:

• 10hz geolocation
• Accelerometer
• Gyroscope
• Pedometer
• Heartrate detection
• ECG reading

Through these features, the v3 is able to note down how players are efficiently and effectively players are moving around a pitch, as well as their biological readouts - casting a light on their physical fitness and areas where training can improve their future performances.

To receive the data, clubs and coaches can use a simple USB-C cord to download the v3's information or they can use non-wired methods such as Bluetooth or Zigbee. The v3 features 4.0 and 5.0 Bluetooth low energy compatibility, allowing users to download stored data from a large variety of their own personal devices. Additionally, Bluetooth allows users to set up the tracker's features without a wired connection.

Catering for a vast number of users, the v3's Zigbee compatibility allows for users to provide live information to the tracker from up to 200 metres away.

After the data is downloaded, it can be accessed in easy-to-read data boards available on mobile phones and desktop. The boards can then be customised to a coach's personal liking, streamlining the process of analysis. Furthermore, analysts can manipulate different metrics to suit their needs, increasing the capacity for greater interrogation of results to strengthen future game and training plans.

Fantasy Football 

In a unique move, Yoomedoo not only provides trackers to clubs and players but has also moved into the real-life fantasy football market.

Through the company's app, players can upload a profile of themselves that details key information about their footballing career. This profile is then uploaded to massive digital network where other players can see and learn about other athletes on the platform.

Profiles are rated and continually adjusted depending on player performance within games, allowing observers to see who the best players in the league are and who upcoming opposition clubs rely upon.

To inspire players to keep performing at their absolute peak, the Yoomedoo app features time-based challenges for players to complete in a race against their peers. Winning challenges can results in players earning impressive digital rewards.

Conclusion 

It is no easy feat to grow and flourish within a competitive sphere, but Yoomedoo have found a way to differentiate themselves while still providing a reliable and consistent product.

Through their work, the Spanish organsiation has been rewarded with a plethora of high-profile partnerships and collaborations, including more than 50 professional clubs. In particular, Yoomedoo has been a hit with Spanish clubs such as Celta Vigo and Mallorca, as well other European names like BSC Young Boys. Additionally, Yoomedoo has found work across Africa and the Middle East through a number of national federations, supproting countries such as Egypt, Qatar, Tunisia, Senegel and more.

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Founded in 2016 in Paris by Emmanuelle Roger (CEO) and Stéphane Guerin (CTO), Immersiv.io has become a global leader in Augmented Reality (AR) sports technology.

With a vision to revolutionise fan engagement, the company combines computer vision, machine learning, and AR to create immersive, interactive experiences for sports audiences worldwide.

Now operating on an international scale, the company collaborates with major leagues and sports brands like the Bundesliga, redefining the way audiences interact with the game.

Immersiv.io Revolutionises Live Sports Viewing with AR Technology

A New Era of Sports entertainment

Immersiv.io is transforming how fans experience live sports, bringing a new level of interactivity through Spatial Computing and augmented reality (AR).

By integrating ultra-live data and immersive visuals, their AR-powered solution, Arise, enhances engagement and offers personalised experiences like never before.

Immersiv.io’s award-winning platform, Arise, is one of many new-age sports technologies that are destined to completely transform the viewing experience and shift away from the traditional TV viewing experience.

With a 75% engagement rate, Immersiv.io’s technology is redefining fan participation, letting audiences take control of the live action in ways that were previously unimaginable.

Interactive Sports Viewing with AR

The Arise system provides real-time insights and contextual overlays, ensuring fans are more connected to the game than ever before. Key features include:

• On-Top Video Insights – Interactive statistics and insights displayed directly on the live video feed.
• 3D Companion Experience – In-depth game analysis through a dynamic 3D representation of key plays.
• In-Arena Overlays – Real-time game data overlaid onto the actual pitch for an enhanced live stadium experience.

This innovative approach allows fans to access and interact with crucial match data in real-time, providing a more immersive and engaging experience whether watching at home, in a stadium, or on the go.

Proven Success Across Multiple Sports

Immersiv.io’s AR technology has already been deployed across various sporting leagues and competitions, enhancing the way fans consume live sports. Partnering with major AR tech providers, the system is compatible with leading devices, including Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest, Magic Leap, and Snapchat AR.

Industry Leaders Praise ARISE

Sports executives have recognised the impact of Immersiv.io’s technology:

“We want to give fans the possibility to gain knowledge and better experience the football game.”
— Andreas Heyden, ex-CEO DFL Digital Sports GmbH

“Our customers were impressed with the app—it gave them a new dimension and more engaging way to watch football. This data-driven viewing approach allows them to better understand the game than ever before.”
— Andy Kwong, VP Sports Content Dev, PCCW Media Limited

Maximising Digital ROI for Clubs & Broadcasters

Beyond fan engagement, Arise offers significant commercial benefits for teams, leagues, and broadcasters:

Strengthening Audience Growth – Boost sign-ups and subscriptions with personalised content and data-driven analytics.
Expanding Revenue Streams – Unlock new sponsorship and advertising opportunities with interactive brand placements.
White-Label Integration – Fully customisable to fit a brand’s identity, with seamless SDK-based integration into existing platforms or as a standalone app.

How this would transform Australian football viewing experiences

Immersiv.io’s AR technology could transform Australian football’s viewing experience, making matches more engaging and interactive.

At the moment on Paramount+, viewers are subject to a broadcast with very limited graphics, statistics and technology which can potentially lure in a more engaged audience.

This innovation could attract younger audiences, boost broadcast value, and create new revenue streams through sponsorships and premium fan experiences.

By modernising how football is consumed, AR technology could help grow the sport’s popularity and increase its commercial appeal in Australia.

Conclusion

As AR technology continues to evolve, Immersiv.io is at the forefront of revolutionising the way sports are watched, experienced, and monetised. By merging live data with immersive technology, they are paving the way for the next generation of sports entertainment.

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Sevilla FC has made history as the first sports club invited to join the AI Alliance, a global community dedicated to the responsible and ethical advancement of artificial intelligence. Among over 150 member organisations, Sevilla FC stands out as the only sports club, highlighting its commitment to technological innovation in sports.

Co-founded by IBM and Meta, the AI Alliance brings together leading technology companies like Intel, AMD, Oracle, Red Hat, and Sony. It also includes renowned academic institutions such as CERN, EPFL, ETH Zurich, Yale, Cornell, the University of Tokyo, Imperial College London, and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay.

Nationally, Sevilla FC is the fourth Spanish institution to join the AI Alliance, alongside the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, MLOps Community, and Esade, representing a significant milestone for sports and technology in Spain.

Sevilla FC has long been a leader in adopting cutting-edge technologies across both sports and business operations. The club has utilised AI to develop advanced solutions in various areas, including player identification and profiling based on scout evaluations in natural language. On the commercial side, AI has been integrated into ticketing, sponsorship, and Fan 360 tools, with a strong focus on attendance prediction, greatly enhancing the management of the secondary ticket market.

Club president, José María del Nido Carrasco, expressed great enthusiasm about the club joining this organisation.

"For Sevilla FC, it is a great honour to be the first sports clubs to join the AI Alliance. We feel fully committed to its principles for the safe, ethical, and collaborative development of artificial intelligence. For the club, this represents significant recognition from the technology industry and various academic institutions for our strong commitment to applying technological innovation to sports, as well as to our different business areas, in order to provide our professionals with the best tools to pursue success both on and off the field," he said via Sevilla FC statement.

Through its membership in the AI Alliance, the club adopts and aligns with the core principles of this community, including:

• Global collaboration to advance AI development.
• The definition and development of AI use cases in the sports industry.
• The promotion of open source technology that encourages equitable access to AI.
• The development of and adherence to standards that ensure trust and security in AI applications.

This achievement not only reinforces the club's dedication to digital transformation but also establishes it as a leader in creating a more innovative, ethical, and sustainable sports ecosystem, setting a precedent for other sports clubs to follow.

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Beyond Sports is a Dutch sports AI data analysis and visualisation organisation challenging and transforming the way sport is viewed and engaged with.

Founded in 2014 in the midst of the Brazil World Cup, Beyond Sports founders Sander Schouten and Nicolaas Westerhof felt there was a significant gap in the market for data driven visualisations that catered for both businesses and consumers.

Since then, Beyond Sports has bloomed in popularity and value, culminating in it being acquired by Sony in 2022.

Beyond Sports' Solutions 

Driving Beyond Sports' success is its wealth of solutions for a variety of markets and consumers, operating a number of unique progammes designed for B2B and B2C.

Many sport addicts may have unknowingly witnessed Beyond Sports' work across its numerous contracts with high profile broadcasters and leagues like ESPN, Fox Sports, KPN, Sky Sports and more.

Virtual Reality 

Beyond Sports' initial projects revolved around creating real life football matches within a virtual reality environment. A partnership with ChyronHego, Feyenoord and PSV assisted the organisation in creating the first ever live computer-generated VR football match, which was broadcast on Twitch to 37,000 viewers in 2017, demonstrating Beyond Sports' ability to broker the cutting edge of technology.

The revolutionary project soon blossomed into a longstanding partnership with Fox Sports Eredivisie alongside KPN to create a fully interactive VR environment of each week's best goals, allowing fans to pick and choose their favourite player's perspectives of the action for free.

From such an innovative project, Beyond Sports then provided broadcasters like Fox Sports and Sky Sports with VR tools to more effectively analyse games.

Additionally, the organisation's use of AI VR to capture on the ground perspectives of real matches has garnered the interest of many elite level clubs. By being able to review moments through a direct one-to-one perspective, coaches are able to more effectively scrutinise mistakes and convey instructions to players more clearly. Through this, Beyond Sports has gained partnerships with clubs such as Arsenal, AFC Ajax and AZ Alkmaar.

AI Animated Visualisations 

Capitalising on the organisation's impressive momentum, Beyond Sports pivoted to alternative animated visualisations of live sporting events using the company's world class AI across world class broadcasters and interactive gaming environments like Roblox.

Beyond Sports' live visualisations most notably broke through into the consumer market via a partnership with Nickelodeon, CBS and Next Gen Stats. Through the collaboration, Beyond Sports used live positional data of the 2021 NFL Wildcard Game to create an alternative animated broadcast of the event in Beyond Sports' signature "blockie style". While the real game aired on CBS, the animated version was shown on Nickelodeon to major success, drawing millions of viewers and earning a 2021 Sports Emmy award. The collaboration was then repeated in 2022, with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles theme.

To further drive and alter the way sport is typically viewed, Beyond Sports entered into a new collaboration with ESPN and the NFL to create a Disney Toy Story themed live animated broadcast of the Jaguars-Falcons London game in 2023. Like the prior Nickelodeon broadcasts, the live version of the game occurred simultaneously with the animated "Toy Story Funday Football" version. Displaying the game within Andy's Room, the animated broadcast boomed in popularity. Beyond Sports' work resulted in the animated game becoming the most viewed event on both ESPN+ and Disney+ ever and earning both Beyond Sports and ESPN three Sports Emmy awards.

In addition to the work Beyond Sports has done with the NFL, the organisation also has a long running partnership with the NHL. In 2023 and 2024 Beyond Sports created the Big City Greens Classic, an animated version of a live NHL game featuring characters from the Big City Greens Disney Channel show. Furthermore, Beyond Sports has also aided in the launch of the NHL's "Hockeyverse", a weekly condensed 30-minute animated version of a game that uses player tracking to feature stylized avatars battling it out on the ice.

Late last year, Beyond Sports also worked with the NBA to create the Dunk the Halls, an animated version of a live game featuring Disney characters.

Conclusion

While many people will still prefer to watch sports in a traditional format, Beyond Sports has found incredible success in creating new alternative methods of watching live events through its proficiency with AI to create VR and animated experiences.

For more information on Beyond Sports, check their website.

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Melbourne Victory confirmed a partnership with the globally renowned analytics firm Jamestown Analytics.

Jamestown Analytics is a globally recognised leader in football data innovation, providing elite clubs across the UK and Europe with unique insights. Its partners include Brighton & Hove Albion (Premier League), Como 1907 (Serie A), Hearts of Midlothian (Scottish Premiership), and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgian Pro League).

The collaboration designates Melbourne Victory as Jamestown Analytics' sole football partner in Australia and New Zealand.

Jamestown Analytics will collaborate closely with Melbourne Victory to enhance data-driven decision-making across the A-League Men’s and Senior Academy programs.

Melbourne Victory's Director of Football, John Didulica, stated that player recruitment in professional football is undergoing significant changes.

“This partnership will place Victory alongside some of the world’s most progressive clubs,” he said via press release.

“Jamestown Analytics’ world-class innovations in the use of data has served a range of clubs incredibly well and we are excited that it will now play an instrumental role in shaping Melbourne Victory’s decisions across areas such as squad management and opposition analysis, all of which will be deeply integrated into our existing structures.”

Melbourne Victory's Managing Director, Caroline Carnegie, expressed excitement about partnering with a global leader in football innovation.

“Jamestown Analytics’ reputation speaks for itself, with a history of helping clubs achieve extraordinary results,” she said via press release.

“Being their exclusive partner in Australia and New Zealand highlights Melbourne Victory’s commitment to fostering a forward-thinking organisation that is laser focussed on delivering consistent sporting success.”

Managing Director of Jamestown Analytics, Justin Said, believes Melbourne Victory is the perfect club for a partnership in the Australia and New Zealand markets.

“We are very selective about who we choose to work with. The Club’s size and structure closely mirror those we work with across the UK and Europe, and we are confident that our insights can assist in delivering significant success, both in the short and long term at Melbourne Victory," he said via press release.

In addition to the advancements in data-driven decision-making, the alliance between Melbourne Victory and Jamestown Analytics opens up exciting opportunities for talent identification and player development. By integrating cutting-edge analytics, the club can refine its scouting processes, uncovering emerging talents from both Australia and New Zealand, and strengthening its pipeline for future stars.

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Founder and CEO of INTIX, Alex Grant was the key guest in episode two of Soccerscene's Off the Pitch podcast to discuss INTIX's rise from a young Australian startup to one of the nation's premier ticketing solutions.

Grant founded INTIX in 2017 to address the problems he saw that event operators, leagues and clubs had with their outdated ticketing methods, or their reliance on ticketing organisations which held a stranglehold over their finances and customer data. To combat these rampant issues, INTIX utilised modern technology to revitalise and simplify how ticketing is done for event operators, whilst offering instant access to revenue and data from their ticket sales.

It has proven a successful strategy for the company, with INTIX achieving highly desirable partnerships with key names such as the Tasmania JackJumpers in the NBL and Melbourne Victory in the A-League. Most notably, INTIX kicked off an important collaboration with Football Victoria in the middle of last year.

Grant explained how INTIX was approaching the unique challenges of ticketing across Victoria's state leagues as the organisation prepared for one of the biggest years in NPL history.

"It was a lot of learning on our side," he said on the podcast.

"We spend a lot of time learning about a person's event; how they were doing things previously, maybe without technology. For us, it's very much a process of not just coming in and saying this is what you should be doing, this is the best way. It's year one, let's use our technology and provide a very similar experience to the customer, to what you what you were offering previously."

"I think particularly at most levels there's still this want to just turn up on the day and access the event. So, it's having our system set up to facilitate that and give the customer the same experience, so that next year, you can sort of bring them on this journey.

"We want to get to best practice, but we're not just going to ostracize everyone straight away, we're going to bring people on the journey."

To learn more about how INTIX is tackling the challenges of implementing its tech network across Victoria, listen to the full interview with CEO Alex Grant on episode two of the Off the Pitch podcast by Soccerscene; available on all major podcasting apps.

The post Off the Pitch Podcast: Alex Grant on INTIX’s ticketing solutions appeared first on Soccerscene.

Three Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) representatives have completed an educational training seminar in Saudi Arabia on Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) technology. The trip comes as the Confederation continues to implement VAR as part of its continental upgrades before the OFC Professional League kicks off in January 2026.

OFC VAR Project Manager, Mihaly Fabian was joined by instructors Jamie Cross and Nick Waldron as they sought to improve their knowledge on VAR to streamline the OFC's adoption of the technology.

Training on VAR began with the instructors watching how VAR was used across a number of Saudi League matches in Riyadh. The trio then attended seminars in Gassim for referees and VAR Officials designed for Saudi Arabia's top two divisions, the Roshn Saudi League and Yelo Saudi League.

As the week progressed the instructors first participated in a Yelo Saudi League seminar, discussing post-match analysis. Finally, the team attended a Roshn Saudi League seminar to understand how VAR is utilised at the highest levels of play. Both sessions covered critical topics such as handballs, penalties, offsides and general VAR procedures.

OFC Head of Refereeing, Kevin Stoltenkamp underlined the significance of the seminars for the Confederation as a whole.

“Providing our match officials with exposure to high-level VAR environments is crucial. This experience will accelerate their development and support OFC’s implementation of VAR across Oceania,” he said via press release.

Upon returning to the Confederation, Fabian expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.

“We were fortunate to learn from some of the best VAR instructors in the world. We would like to make a special thank you to Manuel Navarro, Farkhad Abdullaev, Hakan Anaz and Ali Altraifi," he said in a press release.

“SAFF’s (Saudi Arabian Football Federation) incredible hospitality and willingness to share knowledge made this an invaluable experience. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of a strong, long-term collaboration between OFC and SAFF."

The Oceania Football Confederation will continue to work to roll out VAR across the Confederation as it progresses through stage three of FIFA's Implementation Assistant and Approval Programme (IAAP).

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Hailing from Germany, Prematch is a groundbreaking all-in-one football platform for grassroots leagues expanding rapidly across Europe.

Prematch is a social data platform designed to connect grassroots football fans, players, clubs and leagues, providing each with an unprecedented level of professional information.

Launched in August 2022 to a purely German market, Prematch has demonstrated significant growth. The Prematch app has attracted users from 98% of all German teams across the football pyramid and has now expanded into the United Kingdom.

The Prematch App

As an app specifically designed for the grassroots and amateur level, Prematch offers a uniquely new experience with its world class features.

Market Value Profiling

Once a user has created an account they will be prompted to create a player profile, from here they can use this to evaluate their market value on Prematch's internal market evaluator. Mimicking real world transfer markets, Prematch will variably adjust a player's value depending on how they perform each match. The platform achieves this via a points system, with more points resulting in a higher market value. Players earn points depending on the stats they accrue from a game, incentivizing them to perform the best they can to boost their market value.

Additionally, Prematch users can browse through their league's or team's player profiles, allowing them to see which players are deemed the best or those that are on a hot streak.

News and Information Across the Football Pyramid

The driving principle of Prematch's work is to cater towards the grassroots footballing leagues which are often ignored by other footballing technology companies, thus the Prematch platform provides news and information across each level of the football pyramid.

Working across a number of different categories, Prematch not only delivers simple news about game results but also offers fast coverage of transfers and football events.

To ensure fans never miss out on what they need to know, Prematch has inbuilt customisable push notifications. Users can decide what players, teams or leagues they want to be notified about, and can even alter the style of notification for each preference.

However, where Prematch truly outshines its competitors is through its Prematch Facts. Here, teams receive power ratings measuring their qualities in star rankings across a number of different categories. Through Prematch Facts teams are also profiled on their style of play, granting coaches and players the ability to prepare for upcoming games in a far more extensive manner than ever before.

Conclusion 

It is an understatement to say that Prematch has been a success, with the company flourishing vibrantly in its short lifespan. The German organisation has not only amassed a widespread trusted audience within its home nation but has gained a number of high-profile supporters which will embolden it as it grows internationally.

Chief among these supporters is the beloved ex-Mainz, Dortmund and Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, famed for winning titles with his frenetic style at the latter two clubs. Together, Klopp and his family have supported Prematch's move into the UK with great effect, boosting the app to second place in the Apple App Store's sport category for apps.

Additionally, Prematch has cemented itself on the footballing market through key partnerships with renowned brands. A major partnership with German sportswear giant Adidas early last year signaled how significant Prematch had become, while another partnership with American sports drink company Gatorade for a brand-new sponsored Gatorade Team of the Month feature on the Prematch platform has boosted engagement, with up to 42,000 nominations within a month.

As Prematch continues to march on, the organisation remains committed to supporting grassroots football across Europe, with the hope of providing services to all of Europe's 190 million footballers.

For more information on Prematch, visit their website.

The post Prematch: Revolutionising grassroots European football appeared first on Soccerscene.

Soccerment is an Italian football technology startup founded in Milan in 2017.

The company's mission is to accelerate the adoption of data analytics in football. Soccerment develop innovative tools to better gather and analyse football performances.

Their main product, xvalue.ai was created in 2019 with the goal to 'make team sports more engaging, inclusive and meritocratic'.

Soccerment was also selected for the second edition of the MLS Innovation Lab where the league chooses cutting-edge startups to help with the league's continued growth.

So what is xavlue.ai and how does it work?

xvalue.ai is a technology product that is revolutionising Football with AI & Data Intelligence.

It does this by harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and data intelligence solutions to enhance football performance and decision-making in multiple areas.

Designed For:

Match Analysts & Coaching Staff

Performance & Data Analysts

Scouts & Sporting Directors

Player Agents

Why Choose xvalue.ai?

Advanced Metrics

Our platform offers the most comprehensive range of advanced metrics, delivering in-depth insights into player and team performance.

Unmatched Data Quality

We provide the most reliable and high-quality data, offering a complete view of performance strengths and weaknesses.

Intuitive Data Visualisation

Our user-friendly charts and maps transform complex data into intuitive visuals, making it easier to understand key performance metrics.

AI-Powered Insights

As one of the few analytics platforms with an integrated AI assistant, xvalue.ai saves valuable time by generating detailed, text-based analysis in seconds.

Match Analysis & Reporting

Match Analysis

Reduce analysis time with automated, insightful match and team reports.

Match Preview

A one-page report providing predictive insights into upcoming matches, focusing on technical and tactical elements.

Match Report

A concise one-page report delivering key takeaways from past matches, highlighting technical and tactical aspects.

Advanced Match Report

A comprehensive 25+ page automated report on a single match, offering deep tactical insights and player performance evaluations.

Player Analysis & Evaluation

Player Performance Insights

Automate player analysis with instant performance insights.

Player Clustering

Their clustering model provides advanced metrics to uncover underlying patterns and roles on the pitch.

Smart Rankings

Compare and rank players based on performance and playing style, enabling more precise evaluations.

Advanced Player Report

A detailed 15+ page automated report assessing a player's seasonal performance through advanced metrics, heatmaps, and role effectiveness across attack and defence.

Team Analysis & Tactical Insights

Performance Trends & Comparisons

Analyse team performance over time, identify key trends, and benchmark against opponents.

Team Advanced Metrics

Gain deeper insights into tactical execution through tailored metrics for different phases of play.

Advanced Team Report

A comprehensive 60+ page automated report analysing team and opponent performance, covering offensive, defensive, and set-piece strategies, alongside individual player evaluations.

How xvalue.ai and Soccerment can benefit Australian football

Australia’s football landscape is rapidly moving towards playing youth and the A-League in particular is one of the top leagues in the world for under 21 minutes played.

Talent identification plays a crucial role in shaping the sport’s future in this country and xvalue.ai offers cutting-edge AI-driven analytics to help clubs, academies, and national teams uncover hidden talent, refine player development strategies, and make data-backed recruitment decisions.

By leveraging this technology, the professional clubs would benefit greatly just like the MLS have with their Soccerment partnership.

Conclusion

xvalue.ai is the ultimate AI-driven analytics platform, delivering actionable insights to elevate football performance at every level.

It's an extremely complex and useful technology that has now been proficiently use to develop and identify young North American talents like Cavan Sullivan and Obed Vargas amongst many others.

It provides Australia with another opportunity to innovate and proactively use data from these platforms to help try and bring back a golden generation of its own.

The post Soccerment’s ‘xvalue.ai’: Transforming football with AI & Data appeared first on Soccerscene.

Across the world the coaching is becoming ever more professional and sophisticated as technology continues to elevate the way players are developed and trained. One company leading the technology revolution in football is Zone14. Hailing from Austria, Zone14 supports coaches and clubs via its unique Zone14 ONE and TWO cameras.

These unique cameras not only capture match footage but use the power of Zone14's very own AI to capture valuable game data without burdening players with bulky vests or uncomfortable trackers.

Zone14 Cameras 

The Zone14 ONE and TWO cameras are the organisation's leading product, providing an all-in-one camera solution for professional and amateur clubs.

Designed to be easy to use, Zone14's cameras use AI tracking to capture players and the action without relying on a cameraman. Additionally, each camera is reinforced for all weather duty, allowing for them to capture clear 4K footage in whatever condition a team is playing in.

After a game, cameras automatically upload game video to Zone14 REPLAY, either via 5/4G, WiFi, or ethernet connection.

Zone14 REPLAY

Zone14 REPLAY is Zone14's video cloud hosting service and analysis tool. Through it, coaches can individually tag important moments in game recordings to highlight to players, or they can use tagged moments from Zone14's data analysis and football coding process.

After tagging, coaches can easily analyse footage with built in drawing tools, allowing them to convey player movements or crucial passes.

Game recordings can be easily found again and again by neatly organising them into individualised playlists that suit each coach's needs. To enable greater understanding amongst assistant coaches and players or to provide fans greater experiences with the club, video recordings can be shared via Zone14 REPLAY.

Furthermore, clubs can use the platform to create highlights for fans that can be shared on YouTube.

Zone14 LIVE

Breaking down barriers for fans, Zone14 offers an incredibly unique opportunity for fans to watch games of their favourite clubs by granting the ability for clubs to livestream games, even for amateur clubs.

Games can be broadcast live and free on YouTube, allowing for fans to watch on any device. Through this, clubs can customise their streams to their liking, such as integrating sponsors for greater financial opportunities. Additionally, clubs can choose to monetise their streams behind a paywall, without fear of losing any revenue to Zone14.

Streaming allows for clubs to market themselves easily, as it continually provides material to add onto social media pages in the form of stories or clips.

However, Zone14 LIVE not only allows for greater fan interaction but also grants coaches to analyse games on the fly.

With an available second screen, coaches can use features from Zone14 REPLAY, live tag important moments to review later, and even instantly playback those very same moments to gain a deeper understanding of what is happening on the pitch.

By being able to instantly access footage, coaches can adjust instructions and relay key information to players at half time or on the bench to improve performances.

Zone14 STATS

Utilising Zone14's 180-degree AI powered cameras, Zone14 STATS provides key player data via player tracking.

Through the cameras, Zone14 tracks an array of valuable footballing data such as running routes, ball actions, and tactical patterns as well as a wide breadth of performance data like distance covered, number of sprints, high intensity runs, average speed and top speed.

Conclusion 

Through offering features for both fans and coaches, Zone14 provides a unique suite of products that differentiates it from its competitors.

For those wanting to up their game and foster a greater sense of community, Zone14 could be the solution.

The post Zone14: Assisting coaches and fans alike appeared first on Soccerscene.

Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Uplift Labs was created by co-founders Sukemasa Kabayama, Jonathan Wills, and Rahul Rajan. Each brings years of experience in tech innovation, uniting their expertise to build a cutting-edge startup dedicated to improving human movement.

Mission

Uplift Labs is driven by a mission to enhance human movement performance across all aspects of life.

Their AI-powered technology delivers advanced analytics designed to optimise performance while reducing the risk of injury across sports, fitness, and daily activities.

With a strong focus on movement and health, Uplift places human interaction at the forefront of coaching and training, helping people move better in all areas of life.

Key Partnerships

Uplift Labs collaborates with a range of leading organisations to push the boundaries of movement technology, including:

LAFC

AWS Startups

Nvidia Inception Program

Driveline Baseball

Athletes Unlimited

Investment Profile

Uplift Labs is backed by a prestigious group of institutional and individual investors. This includes prominent professional athletes such as Seth and Callie Curry, David DeCastro, Eric Gagné, Marc Gasol, Andrew Luck, and Renee Montgomery, as well as celebrated Olympic medallists including Kosei Inoue, Kosuke Kitajima, and Yuki Ota.

With a unique combination of cutting-edge AI, strategic partnerships, and world-class support, Uplift Labs is poised to transform how movement is understood, trained, and optimised.

Solutions

The company’s solutions are split into three categories of Sports performance, Sports medicine and Sports media. This is Uplift’s vision on how to tackle these issues in sports.

Sports Performance

Gather accurate and reliable data for comprehensive movement analysis.

Track 28 key points to generate kinematics and movement-specific events and metrics across entire athletic movements.

Optimise your athletes' movement performance.

Elevate your assessment of athletic movements and unlock athletes' full potential by analysing functional movements using only iOS devices.

Make data and insights accessible and easy to understand.

Evaluate player movements in a variety of ways across your organisation, from detailed kinematic data to directional reporting and 3D visualisations.

Sports Medicine

Quantify movement health to improve baselines, boost performance, and reduce injury risk.

Establish baseline movement abilities to track improvements and identify potential risk factors.

Perform detailed movement assessments.

Evaluate players or patients and generate reports with valuable, actionable insights. Using iPhones or iPads, our solution reliably captures biomechanical and kinematic data in any environment.

Prioritise player health by minimising injury risks.

Maximise performance and reduce risks by collecting detailed movement data that highlights deficiencies and identifies opportunities for improvement.

Support rehabilitation and recovery with objective measurements.

Use individualised movement analyses, reports, and visualisations to develop informed return-to-play programming and rehabilitation plans. Provide precise Individual Patient reports to guide recovery.

Sports Media

Captivate fans with biomechanical data overlays during live games.

Boost fan engagement by presenting exciting content that overlays biomechanical data, offering a new perspective on elite athletic performance.

Deliver valuable insights in real-time.

Integrate Uplift with your media production pipeline to analyse player movement and provide instant, ready-to-use insights during live commentary or replays.

Enhance the fan experience with clear, engaging visuals.

Offer simple, engaging data on athlete performance and skills to help fans connect with the action. Provide fresh insights for commentary and graphics, helping fans better understand movement analysis in the context of their favourite sports.

Conclusion

As soccer continues to evolve, technology like Uplift Labs’ AI-powered movement analysis is becoming increasingly vital for the sport’s future.

By providing accurate, real-time data and actionable insights, Uplift empowers clubs, players, and medical staff to optimise performance, prevent injuries, and enhance player health.

The ability to track and analyse movement in such detail not only elevates athletic development but also opens new avenues for fan engagement and storytelling.

The post Uplift Labs: Redefining movement analytics in sports appeared first on Soccerscene.

Player scouting is one of the most challenging and vitally important tasks a club has to manage, without fresh and skillful new players a club will struggle to compete with its peers.

However, scouting can take a significant amount of time, manpower and research, leaving clubs with less resources at a significant disadvantage.

Additionally, for young players aiming for a professional career in football it can be extremely difficult to get noticed, especially if they are unable to frequently travel to far away tryouts.

To bridge the gap, Japanese organisation Dreamstock aims to reshape traditional scouting procedures via technology.

Launched in 2017, Dreamstock operates one of the largest online player selection platforms in the world - DSFootball.

Via DSFootball, Dreamstock strive to achieve three goals on the path to make football fairer for upcoming talents:

• Create connections between club and players.
• Generate opportunities through technology and innovation.
• Transform the scouting market with transparency

DSFootball Platform 

Available in two packages, DSFootball is a multifaceted platform designed to aid both clubs and players. The first package is designed for grassroots clubs and academy players, while the second is a premium version tailored for professional clubs and players.

Through the DSFootball app, players create a profile that details their physical attributes, location, position and footballing history. Additionally, they can upload video clips of their performances to entice clubs to contact them.

For clubs, the DSFootball platform allows them to search for the perfect players to fit their unique needs by filtering their searches.

The platform houses a vast and expansive youth database for players across the U13, U15, U17 and U20 age groups, presenting the aforementioned player profiles to clubs.

These profiles showcase the important player information scouts need to know, so they can determine if potential players are suitable for them or note. Most importantly, the profiles showcase valuable game footage and clips, allowing scouts and coaches to see the potential of players without travelling to see them in person.

Through the DSFootball platform, clubs can individually contact interesting players via their profiles, or they can launch scouting events and tryouts to assess players in person. Furthermore, DSFootball allows for direct contact to player representatives to foster important connections and conversations.

Via DSFootball, Dreamstock provides a way for clubs to access and scout players they normally never would have been able to under traditional methods, as it drastically reducing barriers for upcoming young players.

In providing each of these services, DSFootball acts as a one-stop-shop for clubs, significantly reducing the amount of hassle they are subjected to.

Global Impact 

Developing from its two headquarters in Brazil and Japan, Dreamstock has achieved significant success in its short lifespan via the DSFootball platform. With the company and its platform having grown active in over 36 countries, encompassing more than 200 clubs and 50 leagues.

Through their work, Dreamstock has fostered key partnerships with premier competitions such as the Bundesliga, Serie A, Eredivisie and even Australia's very own A-League.

As a product, DSFootball has been revolutionary. With over one million registered players on DSFootball, Dreamstock has created a premier destination for clubs to select future stars from, connecting players to clubs at a faster and more expansive rate than ever before.

For players, DSFootball has proven to be an excellent way to develop personally and attract attention from clubs. Of the one million plus registered players on the DSFootball platform, more than 100,000 are active participants in selection.

There is no sign of Dreamstock slowing down either, attaining over two million website views each month, illustrating a continued desire for the platform.

For more information on Dreamstock and the DSFootball platform, click here.

The post Making Football Fairer: Dreamstock DSFootball Platform appeared first on Soccerscene.

Club management is an exceptionally difficult all-encompassing role, which can entail working long hours and tight budget restrictions. To help alleviate some of the stress, here is a list of several freely available apps and tools to help you across a variety of fields.

Club Structure & Documents

Organising how a club is structured is complex, involving large compendiums of documents, files, and more. To help assist how your club is structured and recorded, the following software can help.

Stack Team App 

The Stack Team App is a well-known app designed for use by sports teams and clubs. It allows club administrators to keep track of members with ease, send messages and information to members simply, fundraise directly, create calendars and schedules, as well track attendance and availability for matches. The app also serves as a way to keep documents in a central location, allowing for easy access.

OneNote

OneNote is Microsoft's free note-taking platform, available on multiple platforms. It allows admins and members to outlay important club information, plan, take meeting minutes and more. All within in a format which is easy to use and can be freely shared, allowing for real-time collaboration.

Notion

Similar to OneNote, Notion operates as a note-taking tool, available on a number of platforms. However, it prides itself on being an effective and simple project management platform, allowing users to see, comment on and track work being done by others. The base version of Notion is free and provides a collaborative workspace for up to 10 people, along with integration with several major apps such as Slack. Paid versions of the app increase the number of contributors and provide unlimited file uploads.

Google Drive 

Google Drive is a free file-hosting service which allows for documents to be securely saved and then retrieved from any device, requiring only a Google account. Through Google Drive, files can be shared freely to members or kept private.

Dropbox

Like Google Drive, Dropbox is a cloud storage software which allows for files to be shared swiftly or kept protected. The free version of the app allows for up to 2GB of storage, which can be upgraded by purchasing premium subscriptions.

Club Messaging

For clubs, it is crucial admins, volunteers, players and members are always up to date with important information and have an easy way to contact each other in times of need.

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a free messaging platform available on mobile phones and desktops. While it may seem at first redundant to use instead of simply texting, WhatsApp has some key advantages. Using only an internet connection for messaging and calling, WhatsApp users are not subjected to SMS charges like in regular texting. Furthermore, WhatsApp allows for far larger group chats than texting, allowing for 256 members within a single group.

Slack 

Slack is a multi-device messaging platform designed for businesses and professionals. It features the ability to divide messaging into isolated channels for convenience, integration with apps, as well as featuring voice and video calls.

Club Social Media 

In 2025 it is vital that clubs have a social media presence. It is a highly valuable tool to market a club to new members and also a platform to spread information to supporters.

The three most important social media apps your club needs to be on are Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter). These platforms are free to use and can be accessed from any device.

Here, your club can post about fixtures, important events, ticketing, fundraising, membership, and more.

Club Design and Graphics 

As a club, it may seem like design and graphics are unimportant, but that is entirely untrue. Having a remarkable and unique visual style can help you stand out from other rival clubs, while posting professional looking content on social media strengthens the appeal of the club.

Canva

Known for its simplicity and ease of use, Canva is perfect for those who want to improve their club's social media content without venturing into complex software. Available on mobile phones and desktops, Canva is versatile and offers a range of templates to help ease the design process. The base version of the app is free, while paid versions extend upon its features, offering new design tools and templates.

Adobe Express

Adobe Express is a more basic version of Adobe's professional programs, however that does not diminish it. The app is easy to use, offering simple tools and templates, while also being available on mobiles and desktop. Adobe Express can be upgraded via paid subscription to include more templates, assets, and greater AI tools.

Conclusion

Running a club is already incredibly difficult, so always look for tools that can assist you. For any more information, feel free to contact Football Pro Directory.

The post Discover the best free apps for soccer clubs appeared first on Soccerscene.

Reigning English Premier League champions Manchester City have announced they have joined forces with global software giant, Veritran.

Headquartered in Buenos Aires, Veritran are renowned for providing clients with exemplary, efficient digital solutions for unique needs or for revamping outdated digital infrastructure.

Through the collaboration with Manchester City, Veritran will become both an Official Global Partner of the club, as well as City's Official Fan Identity Partner. Via the deal, Veritran will apply their technology expertise to network and update Manchester City's software infrastructure, to improve online processes readily accessed by fans such as membership, registration and ticketing.

Vice President of Global Partnership Sales at City Football Group, Kaitlyn Beal, explained why the club was drawn to Veritran.

“As a club, we strive to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and innovation in order to further enhance our solutions-based infrastructure and help us continually improve our processes for fans," she said in a press release.

“We are excited by Veritran’s products and solutions, and we look forward to working with them to implement this technology over the next few years.”

Chief Commercial Officer at Veritran, Marcelo Fondacaro, expressed his company's enthusiasm for the collaboration with Manchester City.

“At Veritran, our mission has always been to simplify and elevate digital processes. Becoming a partner of Manchester City, a club that shares our passion for innovation and excellence, allows us to bring that expertise to the sports world," he said via press release.

“This collaboration represents a groundbreaking achievement for Veritran, as we proudly become one of the first LATAM tech companies to partner with Manchester City. With Veritran’s proven expertise and the Club’s commitment to excellence, this partnership will further enhance Manchester City’s technology infrastructure, creating smoother, more connected, and more enjoyable interactions for fans worldwide.”

With over 50 million people accessing Veritran services across Latin America, North America and Europe, the partnership marks a significant achievement for Manchester City and also provides Veritran with a widely recognised global platform to grow further from.

The post Manchester City joins forces with Veritran appeared first on Soccerscene.

CoachBetter is a company founded in 2018 in Switzerland with the primary goal to create an advanced coaching app intended to help teams at grassroots and professional level.

The CoachBetter app exists to revolutionise the way football coaches and clubs operate, offering a suite of tools designed to streamline processes, enhance player development, and simplify coaching tasks.

Let’s dive into the features that make CoachBetter the ultimate app for football coaches.

All-in-One Communication Hub

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful team. With CoachBetter’s Integrated App for Players, you can keep everyone on the same page.

Coaches can share training updates, match plans, and important announcements, ensuring that players have easy access to the information they need. This seamless communication fosters a sense of unity and ensures that no crucial detail is overlooked.

Task Management Made Simple

Managing a football team involves juggling multiple responsibilities, from training schedules to administrative tasks.

CoachBetter’s Task Manager serves as your personal coaching assistant, helping you organise, schedule, and prioritise tasks. By automating administrative duties, you can focus more on what matters most: coaching and developing your players.

Visual Learning Through Video Sharing

A picture is worth a thousand words, but a video is worth even more.

CoachBetter enables you to share insightful video sequences with your players and staff. Whether you’re breaking down match footage or highlighting key tactical plays, this feature transforms your video library into an engaging visual playbook, making complex strategies easier to understand.

Build Your Team Philosophy

Every great team has a unique identity and culture. CoachBetter empowers you to spread your coaching philosophy, allowing you to shape a culture that reflects your vision and principles. By articulating your values and approach, you can inspire your players and create a cohesive, motivated squad.

Streamlined Team Management

Managing a team involves more than just strategy; it’s about ensuring smooth coordination across all aspects of the game. CoachBetter offers a range of features to simplify team management:

Training Session Planning: With over 700 pre-built activities, you can plan effective training sessions tailored to your team’s goals. You can also customize sessions to address specific needs.

Game Day Management: Optimize your match-day strategy by documenting games, evaluating performances, and making data-driven tactical adjustments.

Team Coordination: Effortlessly manage communication, schedules, and information sharing, making it easy to keep everyone aligned.

Enhance Performance with Video Analysis

CoachBetter’s Video Analysis tool takes performance reviews to the next level.

You can tag, cut, and share key moments from match footage, enabling players to visualise their strengths and areas for improvement. This feature not only aids individual growth but also strengthens team-wide understanding of tactics.

Prioritising Player Well-Being

Player health is a cornerstone of long-term success. The app’s Player Medical Records feature tracks injury histories, recovery timelines, and overall fitness levels. This ensures that your team is always in peak condition, ready to perform at their best.

Data-Driven Coaching

In today’s game, data is king. CoachBetter provides powerful tools to harness the power of analytics:

Data & Performance Insights: Track individual and team progress, identify trends, and make informed decisions to boost performance.

Player Performance Statistics: Dive deep into metrics that matter, enabling you to pinpoint areas for improvement and drive success.

Continuous Learning for Coaches

The journey to becoming a great coach never ends. CoachBetter offers Coaching Education, a treasure trove of expert articles covering topics like offensive strategies, defensive tactics, and team management. This resource ensures you’re always learning and adapting to the demands of modern football.

Premium Training Packages

For those looking to unlock their team’s full potential, CoachBetter offers Premium Training Packages. These elite programs are designed to ignite progress and push your team to new heights, ensuring you stay ahead of the competition.

Conclusion

CoachBetter isn’t just an app; it’s a game-changer for football coaches and clubs.

By combining cutting-edge technology with practical coaching tools, it simplifies the complexities of team management and empowers coaches to focus on what truly matters: developing their players and achieving success.

In an era where every decision counts, CoachBetter ensures you’re always ahead of the game.

The post CoachBetter: Revolutionising football coaching with cutting-edge tools and insights appeared first on Soccerscene.

UEFA has publicly issued support for Operation Kratos, a multinational effort to prevent international piracy.

Headed by the Republic of Bulgaria's Ministry of the Interior and supported by police agencies from the Italian and Croation Republics alongside Europol and Eurojust, as well as Spanish football league LaLiga, Operation Kratos has actively dismantled a global piracy network used by over 22 million users.

Executed throughout the middle of 2024, during major sporting events such as the, Paris Olympics, UEFA EUROs tournament and UEFA Champions League, Operation Kratos undertook 112 search and seizures of equipment, and identified 102 suspects, arresting 11.

Across the seizures, law enforcement discovered 270 IPTV devices, 100 domains that had been used for crime, and nearly 30 servers. In addition, authorities found weapons, drugs, 2.65 million AUD in cryptocurrency and 66,000 AUD in cash.

UEFA played a crucial part in the operation, providing critical and prompt information on illegal sports streams. Information was gained through UEFA's widespread content protection program which monitors for stolen content using the latest available technology.

A UEFA spokesperson highlighted the value of Operation Kratos for the organisation and sport as a whole.

“UEFA welcomes and supports such a successful and unprecedented operation that neutralised a record number of illegal streaming platforms and illegal IPTV services. We would like to thank the various stakeholders involved for their ongoing efforts and the high level of cooperation in fighting digital piracy by bringing actions such as this against organised crime”

“Financial revenue generated from media rights is vital for the well-being of both professional and amateur football. In particular, it is essential to football development and grassroots investment throughout Europe.

“The fight against the online piracy of our competitions remains a key priority for UEFA. We are committed to doing whatever is possible to stop this core threat to the revenues which underpin the European football ecosystem.”

UEFA will continue to assist organisations in the fight against piracy.

The post UEFA’s Role in Operation Kratos: stopping global piracy appeared first on Soccerscene.

Hailing from France, Footbar is a football technology startup aiming to boost personal performance by providing individualised data to athletes via the organisation's flagship product - the Meteor tracker. 

Guided by the desire to "democratise access to artificial intelligence in soccer", Footbar's Meteor tracker is a non-intrusive and affordable product designed for use by amateurs and professionals.

Headed by experienced individuals in the footballing world such as Stéphane Martin (former president of Girondins de Bordeaux) and Jacques D'Arrigo (former director at Nike and Girondins de Bordeaux), the company has flourished.

Having previously been recognised as the first tracker to be endorsed by the KNVB (Dutch Football Association) and awarded by the FFF (French Football Federation),  Footbar has also enjoyed an extremely successful 2024.

Commercially, the company sold over 30,000 trackers across the year while crucially expanding its club portfolio through gaining 80 contracts with professional and amateur clubs, including big names such as RB Leipzig, Rayo Vallecano, FC Groningen and FC Metz.

The Meteor Tracker 

Designed for clubs and players across the world, the Meteor tracker is an easy to use and comfortable tool.

Instead of being obtuse, bulky or heavy, the Meteor is an incredibly small and lightweight device that either sits in a leg sleeve or is strapped to an athletes' calf, depending on the player's choice, in order to measure their performance.

Validated and certified through rigorous testing by Dutch sports analysis company Inmotio, Footbar's Meteor tracker has been proven to accurately track two types of data.

The first type is technical data, this range of statistics covers explicit footballing actions. Meteor records the following technical data:

• Shots: Number of shots taken, including clearances and crosses.
• Max Shot: Fastest shot taken, recorded in km/h.
• Average Shot: Average speed in km/h of all shots taken.
• Pass: Number of passes made.
• Possession: Number of seconds with ball.

The second set of data is physical data, covering non-footballing actions. Meteor tracks physical data such as.

• Distance: Total distance moved, recording in kilometers.
• Activity: Proportion of distance covered while running.
• Sprint Max: Fastest speed achieved.
• Race: Total time ran, recorded in minutes and seconds.
• Sprints: Number of times a player recorded a speed 30% above average pace.
• Average Sprint: The average speed of all recorded sprints.

Utilising artificial intelligence, Footbar breaks down all data recorded by the Meteor and conveys into a digestible format which can be simply accessed through the tracker's companion app "Footbar", available on the Apple App Store, or Google Play. This allows coaches and players to access match data on the fly, in their hand, in an easily understandable package.

Acknowledging the long stints players are active for, Footbar has developed the Meteor tracker to be operational for six hours without charging, ensuring coaches do not have to worry about recharging equipment in-between double header matches or long training sessions, letting them focus on what is important.

However, in the event the Meteor tracker needs to recharge, the device has a rapid average charging time of 30 minutes, allowing it to be quickly ready for action. Additionally, the Meteor tracker utilises a small USB adapter, making it easily portable and versatile.

Conclusion 

Having delivered 30,000 products to professional and amateur clubs, across all continents and in 134 countries, Footbar has evolved from a simple start up to a global frontrunner through delivering a world-leading product in the Meteor tracker.

Armed with a global face advertising the brand in Raphaël Varane, Footbar continues to grow, achieving 12 million views on TikTok in 2024 from 30,000 in 2023.

As the organisation's momentum continues to push it further into the future, the Meteor repeatedly delivers excellence for clubs across the world and could be a valuable tool to elevate those looking to improve.

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Former Japanese soccer star Keisuke Honda has scored another win off the pitch, his venture capital firm, X&KSK Fund, has secured $158 million to invest in tech start-ups specialising in AI and cutting-edge business solutions.

Over 20 investors are supporting Honda's fund, including prominent Japanese financial institutions like Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp, Nomura Holdings, and SBI Holdings. Notably, SBI Holdings and SBI Shinsei Bank have contributed a combined $20.46 million (¥2 billion), making them the fund's largest stakeholders.

Shohei Yamada, a partner at SBI Investment, highlighted that the goal of this investment is to expand its network of international investors and promote Japanese start-ups. In Japan, where the number of so-called “unicorn” companies—those valued at over $1.61 billion—remains limited, this initiative represents a significant step forward for the local start-up ecosystem.

Keisuke Honda, known for his stellar performances at CSKA Moscow, AC Milan, and three consecutive World Cups, has been expanding his business ventures. Together with American actor Will Smith, he co-founded Dreamers VC. His goal is to create a "decacorn"—a private company valued at over $16.17 billion in Japan.

Honda is aware establishing a decacorn is rare in Japan, however, he is assertive it can be achieved.

“I’m aware that creating a decacorn in Japan is a very difficult challenge, but considering what the Japanese have already achieved, I believe it is possible,” he said via email interview.

The former AC Milan midfielder recognized that his soccer fame opens doors to profitable investment opportunities. He also pointed out that, unlike in the U.S., celebrities in Japan are typically reluctant to openly talk about their investments.

Although the number of start-ups in Japan is on the rise, the country still falls short in producing unicorns. A report from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry highlights that fostering start-up growth requires improved access to significant funding.

In 2022, Japanese start-ups raised a record ¥978.2 billion (10.01 billion AUD), but this figure dropped to ¥803.9 billion (8.22 billion AUD) in the following year. Despite the decline, it still represents a fivefold increase compared to 2014.

The X&KSK Fund seeks to back innovative projects and promote cutting-edge technologies. This initiative marks a significant milestone for Keisuke Honda and Japan’s emerging start-up ecosystem, bringing fresh momentum to its expansion.

Keisuke Honda’s involvement in the X&KSK Fund represents a significant shift in how athletes, especially football players, are positioning themselves within the broader business and tech world.

Historically, athletes, particularly in football, have often focused on careers post-retirement that include media ventures, sponsorships, or brand endorsements. However, Honda’s active role in venture capital, particularly in sectors like AI and tech innovation, signals a new wave of athlete entrepreneurs taking a more hands-on approach in shaping the future industries.

This shift is particularly important because football players, given their fame and influence, have the potential to leverage their personal brands to foster meaningful change within industries beyond sports.

Players such as Honda, who have gained global recognition, can access exclusive investment opportunities that might otherwise be difficult to reach for traditional investors.

By actively participating in initiatives like Dreamers VC, Honda is not just a figurehead—he’s an active contributor to the creation of business ecosystems that can have a lasting impact on both the tech industry and Japan’s start-up scene.

Moreover, for footballers, particularly those who achieve global success, such investments can be a smart way to secure long-term financial stability post-retirement, as they can often face a shorter career span.

The increased involvement of athletes in high-level investments allows them to diversify their portfolios and contribute to industries that influence the future of society. This trend is beginning to reshape how sports figures are perceived, from being athletes to being influential business leaders and investors.

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Signality was founded in 2016 with a clear vision to transform sports data. The company was driven by the ambition to make sports data as efficient and autonomous as a self-driving car.

With a rise in AI technology, the Swedish-based company are changing the way sports data is captured, analysed and utilised.

Signality have focused heavily on using their technology to create an extensive and complex soccer data system thanks to their automated cloud-based platform.

This platform processes thousands of live soccer games every year, delivering unparalleled data insights. It can ingest feeds from a single panoramic camera to multiple cameras, with more inputs resulting in richer data.

As the company continues to grow, it is expanding in the sports media landscape, after recently being acquired by automated camera and video production company Spiideo, another Swedish sportstech brand.

Signality’s Soccer API

The company’s prized product is their Soccer API which comprehensively tracks data sets from all different angles of the sport to help clubs, leagues and athletes perform at their best.

This is how it works:

Revolutionising Soccer Analytics with Automated Tracking and Event Data

A cutting-edge Soccer API is transforming the way soccer data is collected and delivered. Through fully automated tracking and event data collection, the platform leverages static video camera streams to derive accurate positional and event data without the need for manual intervention.

Automated Data Collection and Low-Latency Delivery

By connecting video streams to the platform’s system, users can initiate an automated process that generates real-time data feeds. These feeds, accessible via an open and user-friendly API, ensure low-latency data delivery, providing crucial insights for analysts, coaches, and broadcasters.

Comprehensive Tracking Data

The platform provides detailed positional data for all players, including the ball and referee. This data forms the basis for numerous Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that can be easily derived, such as:

• Total Running Distances
• Speed Zones
• Number of Sprints
• Player Separation Metrics
• And Many More

This positional data is presented with high accuracy and precision, allowing teams to analyse movement patterns and player performance comprehensively.

Rich Event Data

In addition to tracking data, the API delivers extensive event data, covering a broad range of on-field events. Each event is timestamped and linked to the respective team and player. The list of supported event types is continuously expanding and currently includes:

• Kick-Off
• Goals
• Passes
• Substitutions
• Red Cards
• Yellow Cards
• Corner Kicks
• Dangerous Free Kicks
• Penalties
• End of Phase

This comprehensive event data enables deeper tactical analysis and enhances the storytelling for media coverage.

Proven and Validated Technology

The quality of the platform’s services has been validated by Gothenburg University, ensuring reliability and accuracy. In addition, continuous in-house validation and collaboration with partners help maintain and improve the high standard of service. Interested users can request further details about the validation process.

How It Works

1. Connect Video Streams: Users can connect their respective video streams to the API and optionally provide additional match information, such as team lineups, home and away teams, and kick-off time.
2. Automated Processing: The platform’s AI models process the video streams, automatically extracting positional and event data.
3. Access Data via API: The processed data is made available through an easy-to-use open API, enabling seamless integration into existing systems.
4. Quality Assurance: Built-in QA services ensure data accuracy by continuously training and refining AI models based on feedback and new data.

Conclusion

Signality’s Soccer API offers a revolutionary solution for automated soccer analytics. By providing fast, accurate, and comprehensive data through a robust open API, it empowers teams, analysts, and broadcasters to gain unparalleled insights into the game. With proven technology and continuous improvement, this platform is set to become a key player in the future of soccer analytics.

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The Asian Football Confederation has looked to the future in the first ever AFC Football eSports Forum.

Hosted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, over two days, the forum reiterated the AFC's dedication to captivate and draw audiences across a range of different multimedia, especially through the hugely popular gaming industry.

The conference brought together key stakeholders such as AFC Member Associations (MAs) and eSports professionals to develop off the triumph of the AFC eAsian Cup, which was launched alongside the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

To begin the forum, event attendees participated in an introductory session to understand the AFC's Football eSports strategy.

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The Premier League has unveiled its first official virtual reality (VR) game, Premier League Player, in partnership with sports technology firm Rezzil.

Available on Meta Quest VR headsets, the game immerses fans in the heart of the action, allowing them to recreate legendary goals and experience historic moments from a player’s perspective.

In March, the Premier League and Rezzil officially confirmed their four-year partnership, promising to make 'groundbreaking' developments in both the broadcasting and video game space.

In the press release they mentioned the video game being released late in 2024 purely for a new fan experience.

Fully Licensed Clubs and Stadiums

Premier League Player features all 20 clubs and stadiums, offering fans the chance to train, compete in multiplayer modes, and engage in free play. Players can create their own avatars, collect items, and even interact with the Premier League trophy.

Rezzil's Cutting-Edge VR Technology

Rezzil, a Manchester-based technology company known for its VR training tools, developed the game. Its software is widely used by professional athletes and Premier League clubs to enhance performance through training sessions and match analysis.

The platform also recreates an authentic stadium atmosphere, complete with crowd noise and in-game scenarios, further bridging the gap between fans and the on-field experience.

Rezzil’s innovations extend beyond gaming, offering professional-level platforms that use sensors and haptic feedback to replicate the sensation of kicking a ball.

These tools, previously reserved for elite training, are now accessible to fans through consumer-friendly devices like the Meta Quest.

Broadening the League's Digital Footprint

The Premier League’s partnership with Rezzil reflects its evolving approach to fan engagement and gaming. Alongside long-standing collaborations with EA Sports and Football Manager developer Sports Interactive, the league is embracing innovative technologies to reach a wider audience.

Conclusion

The launch of Premier League Player signals a step forward in merging cutting-edge technology with fan experiences.

By offering immersive and interactive opportunities, the game not only strengthens fan connections to their favourite teams but also showcases the potential of VR in sports.

Every stakeholder from fans to players and clubs is utilising this technology and it has very quickly entered the sports mainstream.

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Founded in 2021, Mingle is a Dutch sports start-up aiming to elevate grassroots clubs through its impressive technology portfolio.

Mingle's core product, the Mingle Sport app, strives to be a one-stop place for club members to easily access every piece of information they need.

The company offers three packages for clubs to use, from a basic free package to an extensive pro tier.

Team Management 

At its core, the Mingle Sport app is an easy to use, extensive and fluid way to organise a team. Users can implement a highly detailed schedule to track games, training sessions and other events.

This schedule can then be synced to a range of digital calendars, including Google, Outlook and iCloud. Through the schedule, players and coaches can RSVP and set up reminders.

To help identify how healthy a club is, Mingle also allows users to track attendance over a season by identifying trends.

Line-ups

One of the most important and enjoyable aspects of coaching is creating the team line-up, knowing this, Mingle provides an incredible degree of creativity within its native line-up builder.

The Mingle Sport app offers a range of formations for teams that are not only 11-a-side but also 7-a-side and lower.

Additionally, if the available formations are not to the liking of the user, Mingle enables users to drag and drop players to a desired location.

During a match, the line-up builder can also be used to track substitutions.

In higher tiered packages, match minutes can be live tracked, enabling users to see how many minutes each player is getting.

Team Communication 

The Mingle Sport app ensures club information is quickly available and accessible through its team chat.

Members can message through individual channels, or sub-groups can be created to deliver information quickly to multiple people at once.

Mingle's line-up builder allows for team sheets and line-ups to be shared through the app to players, preparing them for games ahead.

Furthermore, notes and comments can be added to media posted on the app, allowing for updates and fun discussion to take place.

Performance Tracking 

The Mingle Sport app caters to a wide range of performance tracking, holding both quantitative and qualitative data.

Users can use the app to score keep, tracking stats such as goals, assists, and cards.

The app can then be used to measure trends, such as win rate, goal scoring, and goal difference. Additionally, members can rate matches from one to five.

Furthermore, Mingle Sport can be linked with Mingle's Homebase, a desktop app focused on deeper analysis.

Mingle Sport also enables every team member to vote for three players of the match, for three different awards - MVP, Playmaker and Workhorse.

These MVP awards feed into Mingle's monthly awards, where players can be awarded for receiving the most MVP awards within a month.

In addition, Mingle features leader boards which can track a range of stats, such as goals, assists and even attendance. These awards and leader boards act as a way to further motivate players into training harder and performing.

Content Sharing 

Mingle understands not everyone can access every game, so the app provides a live feed option in its premium tiers.

Users can customise the live feed to include the score, line-up, commentary, videos and blogs.

The live feed can then be enhanced by sharing updates and push notifications to members on key match moments.

Fortunately, the live feed is not exclusive to club members, outside fans can access the live feed through a shared link.

Besides the live feed, Mingle allows for a range of content sharing, users can post videos and photos in the app, which can be commented on. These can then be collated into albums, such as an end of year highlights package.

Conclusion 

Through its doctrine of ease, simplicity and accessibility, Mingle has proven itself as an incredibly and innovative successful start-up.

For any grassroots club looking to streamline and elevate their club communication, the Mingle Sport app is a perfect solution.

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Members are the lifeline of any soccer club, but it can be a tricky task to gain more. Fortunately, you can grow your soccer club through SEO, or Search Engine Optimisation, and potentially boost memberships exponentially.

SEO is the process of refining online content to be deemed more favourable by search engine algorithms, therefore placing it higher in search results.

Web goers are far more likely to visit higher search results than lower ones, and thus sites that can consistently place at the top of search results will receive far more web traffic.

For your soccer club, the greater level of web traffic you have, the greater your chance of gaining more memberships.

While the process of SEO may seem large, complicated and ultimately daunting - this guide will provide simple ways to boost your SEO practices.

Understanding your club's online position 

Before you begin implementing SEO practices, it's important to acknowledge how your club is tracking online.

If your club has a website, check for an analytics section. Website builders like Wix and WordPress offer analytics information such as the amount of web traffic a site receives, or which pages on a site are accessed the most.

If you do not have a club website or want to improve it, click here for Soccerscene's club website guide.

If you want to upgrade the level of analytics at your disposal, Google Search Console is an incredibly useful tool available. It allows you to see which search queries are bringing visitors to your site, in addition to far more.

Once you have checked your website's analytics, make note of the successes and areas for improvements across your website. These notes will help you start your SEO practices.

Targeting the right audiences 

To attract new members, it's important to target the right people and not just the most amount of people.

As a club, your SEO practices should always prioritise your local area. Your local area is where you are going to find the most likely people to join your club, and also the least competition from other clubs.

To target your local area effectively, create a Google My Business profile and add your club's address and contact information. Here you can add your club to Google Maps, add photos and much more.

In addition to targeting your local area, consider what type of soccer club you are marketing for. Is it family friendly, social, competitive, or something else?

SEO Tips and Tricks

When you know the audience of your club, you can start implementing SEO practices.

Keywords: Keywords are the words people are using to search for content online. As a club, you want to be using specific keywords to draw in the right visitors, such as "inclusive", "all-levels welcome", "professional", or "competitive", depending on the audience you're aiming for.

Keywords should be used multiple times across your website, especially in your title, Web URL, and in the first 100 words of text on a page. You should also include synonyms to your keywords across your content.

Linking: Search engines find sites easier when they are linked elsewhere. There are two types of SEO linking, internal and outbound links. Internal links are links within your website, while outbound links are to other websites.

When internal linking, try linking articles within your site to related content. When outbound linking, always link to trustworthy sites, and to related content. Outbound linking is also an SEO bonus to where you link to, so consider linking to your sponsors or local community directories.

Readability: It may seem obvious, but it is incredibly important to have a readable and navigable site. When visitors quickly click on and leave multiple websites, search engines assume the websites are unhelpful and thus lower the website's rankings within their algorithms.

To prevent people from rapidly leaving, ensure that information on your site is easily laid out and concise. Bullet points and short paragraphs can assist with this.

Additionally, ensure pages are easy to access and avoid cluttered website designs.

Mobile Optimisation: The majority of searches are performed on mobile phones, so it's vital to cater to them. Make sure your website design is navigable on a phone. Furthermore, ensure that image or file sizes do not cause lengthy load times on phones.

Chrome Lighthouse can run reports on how successful your mobile site is.

Conclusion 

In the modern footballing world, it is crucial to grow your soccer club through SEO. With so many businesses and clubs flocking towards it, now is the time to jump on board to boost the number of people interested in your club.

If you would like to know more, feel free to contact Football Pro Directory.

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FIFA has confirmed a collaboration with US based gaming company, Mythical Games, to develop a new officially licensed mobile game - "FIFA Rivals".

Aiming for release in 2025, FIFA Rivals will be available on IOS and Android.

The game marks a significant move in FIFA's continual quest to expand and diversify its gaming and esports portfolio. Neglecting simulation-based gameplay in favour of fast paced arcade gameplay, FIFA Rivals is a departure from previous FIFA licensed games.

As an organisation with experience in mobile gaming, Mythical Games already operates a Rivals game in partnership with the NFL, with over five million downloads. The US company will now seek to grow its market in the footballing world.

Their latest offering, FIFA Rivals, will enable gamers to create, manage and develop their own in game football club. Players will also be able to create their own line-ups and enhance them via levelling up, to then play against other players.

FIFA Rivals will be a free to play game but will feature extensive in game microtransactions.

Operating off of the Mythos blockchain model, the game will include in-game and web marketplaces for players to buy, sell, trade and own in game versions of real-life football players.

FIFA Secretary, General Mattias Grafström spoke of the opportunities FIFA Rivals presented.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Mythical Games to launch FIFA Rivals, bringing football fans a mobile-first gaming experience that deepens their connection to the sport," he said in a press release.

"The game is an innovative and accessible addition to our expanding gaming and esports portfolio."

CEO and Founder of Mythical Games, John Linden outlined the goals of the collaboration.

"We’re excited to partner with FIFA and leverage our expertise to create an unparalleled football gaming experience," he said via press release.

“Our goal is to replicate our success with our previous Rivals game and set new benchmarks in the web3 gaming sector.

"The combination of officially licensed football stars (past and present), prestigious clubs from around the world and globally competitive esports gameplay will take sports gameplay to a new level.

"Through this long-term partnership with FIFA, there are major plans to integrate into the FIFA esports platform to give players in every country the ability to become a participant or fan.”

FIFA Rivals will launch worldwide in 2025, game updates are confirmed via FIFA Rivals' X account.

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Sports analysis is an ever-evolving process, with thousands of different organisations vying to be the best, each have to constantly improve, or face being left behind.

One company that has always been ahead of the curve is Dartfish.

Founded in 1998 as inMotion Technologies Ltd, Dartfish has driven the sports analysis space for over 20 years.

Created via the advent of the SimulCam in 1997, Dartfish has since launched revolutionary products and services such StroMotion, Dartfish TV, and several apps such as the MyDartfish Express Mobile App.

To maintain its position as a world leader, Dartfish is committed to providing leading services for its clients everywhere, featuring offices across the world, including in Australia.

In the world of football, Dartfish is celebrated for its world class video analysis.

Football Video Analysis 

Currently, Dartfish offers three tiers of video analysis for football, ranging from entry level solutions to club level packages.

Dartfish understands the uniqueness of each of its clients and thus all packages work on Windows, Android, IOS and Cloud. Additionally, all packages support 4K, Mpeg-4, and h.264 video file formats.

As a standard, Dartfish provides tagging tools in its packages, allowing coaches to bookmark key moments in game recordings to review later. This is bolstered by a range of annotation and compositing tools, and overlays to aid coaches in showcasing and detailing what is happening on the pitch.

Additionally, each analysis package provides video editing and publishing tools to create clips and videos to be shared.

Premium Video Analysis

Where Dartfish's technical capability absolutely stars is in its two highest tiered packages.

Expanding on the basic video tools in the first package, the MyDartfish Soccer and Dartfish ProS solutions both supply clients with multi-video analysis, 3D drawings and analysis, plus live feeds, video encoding and tagging tools.

Through multi-video analysis, coaches can combine different videos to review and edit, bestowing greater freedom in how to decipher game situations.

3D drawing and analysis provides an entirely new dimension to scrutinise. 3D drawing enables coaches to annotate crosses and high ball movement far more effectively than in 2D.

However, the inclusion of live feeds, video encoding and tagging tools may stand as some of the more genius, and actively decisive revelations across the packages. Live feeds and encoding mean active game vision can be livestreamed for others to watch, such as support coaches and staff.

Live tagging builds upon the previously available tagging tools through being actively usable during a game. This is an incredibly useful tool for coaches as it allows them to quickly tag a key moment in a game to review later, without distracting them from the action.

Dartfish ProS

However, Dartfish does not stop there.

The most premium of their packages - the Dartfish ProS - features the company's flagship products the SimulCam and StroMotion, plus Dartfish Live Collaboration.

SimulCam combines multiple videos of different actions to be combined into one, providing a direct comparison of how several athletes perform.

StroMotion captures footage of an event and showcases the evolution of how athletes move. Through these technologies, coaches can evaluate if athletes' techniques are correct or if they are moving to the right positions.

The final feature, Dartfish Live Collaboration, allows for multiple users to join a shared timeline during a game. In the timeline, users can share, edit and delete tags they have added to review and analyse how a team is playing.

Conclusion 

In addition to their work with clients, Dartfish has received acclaim from the Croatian and Swiss national teams, and successful clubs like BSC Young Boys.

As a long-time leader in the sport analysis space, Dartfish continues to elevate the market with its world class technological solutions.

For any club looking to improve, Dartfish's video analysis packages stand as an incredibly beneficial solution.

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FIFA and Hawk-Eye are working together again to create the 'Football Technology Centre', a joint venture that will create new and emerging football technology. 

The Sony-owned Hawk-Eye currently provides FIFA with football technology used in the men's and women's World Cups. The existing partnership has worked on implementing semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) and artificial intelligence (AI). 

Hawk-Eye has established itself as a pioneer in sports technology since 2001 and is trusted by major sporting events globally. Its takeover in sports technology has come from mission statements of creating officiating solutions, providing accurate results for referee decisions, enhancing sports safety for the players, and ultimately making their work digestible for fans to understand the game's decisions and nuances.  

The immediate technological focus areas cover performance enhancement of the already-in-place technology between the two organisations, officiating efficiency and on-pitch detection algorithms. 

With the commencement of the 'Football Technology Centre,' FIFA and Hawk-Eye will work towards improving officiating performance through automated offside technology that alerts match officials through a smartwatch, similar to the already-in-place goal-line technology.

These two organisations continuing this technological football advancement partnership makes a lot of sense, considering how the developed SAOT tracks skeletal and object movements of the game ball and all players on the pitch. The in-place system works hand-in-hand with the future objectives of both companies.

The technology will guide video match officials in receiving alerts through the SAOT. Once they review the footage, the on-field match officials will receive the alert.

Since its introduction, SOAT has beaten the VAR system by an average of 30 seconds per decision while providing better accuracy, visual validation, and enhanced clarity among officials and spectators. 

On the performance enhancement side of the 'Football Technology Centre', the match analytics data feeding and biomechanical data capture can provide FIFA clubs with insightful data on athletes and improve how we analyse football beyond what we see with the naked eye. Critical game situations can be recreated through AI in the metaverse for VR training.

The benefits of Hawk-Eye and FIFA from a fan perspective and engagement aspect are that a 3D virtual recreation of the SAOT decision, once video officials and match officials rule on offside calls, it will automatically be made and shared with the television broadcasting and stadium big-screen. 

Through a corporate lens, Sony's calculated acquisitions and investments in sports technology and biochemical data capture a clear vision for the tech giant to continue dominating the sports technology space.

Beyond Hawk-Eye, owning Pulselive (digital specialist), Beyond Sports (immersive data visualisation), and the new sports technology acquisition for Sony, KiniTrax (motion capture). Sony's sports division's focal point is improving digital solutions, broadcast technologies, and officiating solutions for all companies owned under their sports branch.   

As a leader in sports technology innovation, Hawk-Eye evolves broadcast and production potential through its work. It gives FIFA cutting-edge data analysis through its intricate AI software, which is then visualised and shared with the viewers.

Hawk-Eye is continuing to push the envelope with new software that enhances football in all facets is a remarkable achievement, especially in its success in revolutionising the game, particularly for referees.

Future implications from this joint venture include further technological integration between existing software through the FIFA and Hawk-Eye collaboration, more robust development opportunities for AI, and how it can help shape the future of football on an international scale, advanced training practices for players and enhancing officiating systems. 

The continued collaboration between FIFA and Hawk-Eye is a colossal step in football's technological advancement, shaping its evolution in the coming years. 

For more information on Hawk-Eye Innovations and how they are shaping the future of football, click here.

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Sydney FC has confirmed an exciting agreement covering the next two Isuzu-UTE A-League seasons with global Big Tech titan Sony Australian.

This partnership will see Sony Australia enhance the matchday experience for Sydney FC fans, E-League social media content, and support community initiatives. 

This will directly benefit fans at the game and beyond in Sydney communities through grassroots initiatives. Sony Australia will be involved in school holiday clinics, which is an exciting opportunity for the club and Sony Australia to work together and increase the development of football for the upcoming generation. 

Sydney FC CEO Mark Aubrey voiced eagerness and excitement at the partnership. 

"Sony is a globally recognised and trusted brand, and this partnership allows us to leverage their expertise in audio technology to enhance our matchday experience for fans," he said in a press release.

"We are particularly excited about the opportunities to collaborate on community initiatives such as our school holiday clinics, as well as the activation potential around our corporate and matchday offerings."

Sony Australia will have an excellent opportunity to connect with football fans through LED advertising at Allianz Stadium, pre-match commercials, big-screen advertising throughout Sydney FC home games, a significant social media presence within the E-League and host gaming competitions in corporate select areas of Allianz Stadium. 

Head of Brand and CX at Sony ANZ David Serafin spoke on the excitement of the opportunity for both organisations. 

"Partnering with Sydney FC is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with passionate football fans and demonstrate our commitment to providing the best audio and entertainment experiences," he said in a press release.

"We look forward to creating exciting matchday activations and engaging with the local community through initiatives like the school holiday clinics.

"We believe this partnership will allow us to showcase our products in an innovative way while supporting the growth of football in Australia."

This collaboration is an all-around collaboration that incorporates commercial opportunities with community engagement. It capitalises on Sony Australia's technology prowess while growing Sydney FC's corporate partner portfolio.

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Football Victoria has launched PlayFootball v2.0, delivering a comprehensive upgrade to its national registration platform for clubs, players and referees nationwide in 2025.

The modernised system introduces significant improvements, headlined by a complete interface overhaul prioritising accessibility and efficiency for all stakeholders.

The platform's user-centric design promises to streamline administrative processes across all levels of the sport.

Key enhancements to PlayFootball 2.0 will allow for a modern player and official identification system that will include a sophisticated reporting module.

A notable addition is the integrated Working with Children Check workflow, reinforcing Football Australia's commitment to child safety protocols.

Football Victoria is spearheading the transition by offering comprehensive training programmes, with both face-to-face and virtual sessions available to club administrators and association officials.

These sessions have been specifically designed to ensure optimal utilisation of the platform's enhanced capabilities.

Football Victoria Chief Executive Officer Chris Pehlivanis has spoken on this new update and how they see it as crucial for enhancing the footballing experience for participants and clubs.

“We are looking forward to participants having a streamlined registration process while simplifying administration for our Clubs from 2025. FV will work closely with Clubs to ensure they are well supported through the transition and familiar with the benefits of the new system,” he said via press release.

A crucial update to the registration process will require participants to settle both Football Australia and Football Victoria Governing Body Regulation Fees at the point of registration through PlayFootball v2.0.

To help participants adjust to the change, however, PlayFootball is offering 4 different payment models:

• All Fees Upfront: Club and Regulation fees paid online at the point of registration

• Regulation Fees Upfront: FA and FV fees paid online at the point of registration

• Scheduled Payment: FA, FV, Association and the first portion (¼) of the club fee is paid online at the point of registration

• Subsidised Payment: Club subsidises payment and pays for Governing Body fees on the participant's behalf at the point of registration

Player eligibility is rewarded upon the successful payment of these governing body fees.

This new program was tested by inviting four Associations, including 34 Clubs and 4,839 players to attend feedback sessions with FV and FA and beta test the new platform.

The invitation for Clubs to explore the What’s Changing Playbook has opened and for further information on all the changes coming to PlayFootball v2.0.

The platform's updated rollout represents a significant milestone in Football Australia's ongoing digitalisation strategy, aimed at reducing administrative burden whilst improving service delivery across the football community.

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Professional coaching has rapidly become increasingly intertwined with statistics to optimise maximum performance, driving the need for clubs to employ the latest data innovations to stay competitive.

Bepro is a football statistics and analysis company pushing the cutting edge of football technology, providing an all-in-one analytics platform for clubs across the world.

The company's headline product - the Cerberus - an AI powered camera, allows for an extraordinary level of football data analysis when combined with Bepro's software.

Founded in 2015, Bepro has a large reach across the world with offices in nine different countries and has served teams in the EPL, Serie A, LaLiga, Bundesliga, K-League, SPFL, and more.

Most recently, Bepro supported Spain's ascension to the 2024 European Championship.

However, Bepro also works with a range of amateur clubs, supporting over 2,400 teams across 50 nations.

The Cerberus Camera

The fundamental core of Bepro's philosophy is the use of video to provide context to statistics.

Bepro links all of its data work back to film recorded by either of its two FIFA grade cameras: the Fixed Camera System or the Cerberus.

Bepro's cameras utilise AI to power optical tracking technology, enabling the camera to follow the ball without a camera operator. This allows coaches to work with their team instead of being distracted by handling equipment.

Both camera systems feature real time processing, meaning coaches and analysts can instantly assess footage. To enhance this, Bepro cameras can be accessed from multiple devices, and via Bepro's mobile app.

Additionally, the cameras record in 4k panoramic video to capture more action in higher detail than regular cameras.

Bepro's video service also supplies a 3D video player, providing coaches a greater level of video analysis.

Although both camera systems incorporate many of the same features, the Cerberus has the key advantage of being portable.

While many would fear a portable camera could run out of charge, the Cerberus features batteries capable of four hours continuous filming. Batteries can then be swiftly changed to ensure clubs do not miss out on valuable footage.

Furthermore, the Cerberus is a resilient platform and can continue to film excellently in poor weather and lighting conditions.

Adding to the Cerberus' extremely versatility, it not only keenly tracks the ball, but can also film multiple perspectives at once. Through this, coaches can keep an eye on different angles of a training session or game.

Software and Data

Bepro offers three levels of software for clubs to use, ranging from a basic package for amateurs to highly sophisticated software for professionals.

When combined with Bepro's most expansive package, the Cerberus truly shines.

This package utilises the camera's optical tracking to gather extensive highly detailed positional and physical data of both teams, not always possible with GPS.

From 90 minutes of football, Bepro cameras can accumulate approximately three million data points, including statistics such as the distance ran, speed and sprint efforts of each individual player.

Through the package, clubs can create visualisations in their footage to showcase pressing patterns, passing triangles and more by spotlighting players or drawing lines and diagrams.

Coaches can then edit these video clips together and send them to players and staff to showcase areas for improvement or successful plays.

Conclusion

While new, the Cerberus has already made a significant impression on world football, becoming the first ever portable optical tracking camera to be certified by FIFA.

The camera passed its certification easily, illustrating its excellence by achieving "Well Above Industry Standard" in the majority of assessments, with no scores below "Above Industry Standard".

As Bepro continues to develop itself as one of the premiere football analysis organisations, revelations such as the Cerberus will drive the sport into the future.

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The American security technology company, Evolv Technology, has fired President and CEO Peter George amid an internal investigation.

Evolv's security products are used to detect weapons in arenas worldwide, protecting stadiums in football leagues such as the EPL and MLS, plus American sports such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB. The iconic MCG in Melbourne also employs Evolv's security systems.

Evolv's board had evaluated leadership at the company since May and terminated George's contract without cause, effective immediately on October 30.

Evolv's board outlined the need for change, meanwhile thanking Peter for his dedication to the company.

“We appreciate Peter’s years of dedication to our company and his significant contributions to the company’s mission. We wish him well in his future endeavors. That said, we have determined that a change in leadership is needed to improve the company’s culture as we prepare for the next phase of growth," the board said via press release.

"We continue to believe that the fundamentals of our business remain strong. But we are also convinced that the company can do even better."

Evolv has chosen co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Michael Ellenbogen as Interim President and CEO, as he imagined the long-term mission for the company.

“As a co-founder, I care deeply for this company and its customers, employees, and shareholders. I look forward to working closely with the board and our senior leadership team to advance our mission of creating a safer world while also driving the business forward," he said via press release.

The Evolv board also reaffirmed the decision to terminate George's contract was not in relation to the company's recent inaccurate financial statements and declaration to delay future statements.

“The Board has been evaluating leadership and performance for several months – long before we became aware of any potential issues relating to the company’s sales practices and financial reporting. With respect to that ongoing investigation, the board remains committed to completing a thorough investigation as expeditiously as possible. Our goal is to ensure the company’s financial reports are always current and reliable and that our organizational culture reflects our values of integrity and honesty. That is the only way we can regain the trust and confidence of our investors.”

Evolv's internal investigation is still ongoing, while the board aims to appoint a new CEO promptly.

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Major League Soccer (MLS) confirmed six companies have been chosen for the second edition of the MLS Innovation Lab, an initiative that is shaping the future of sports and supporting the league's ongoing growth.

The initiative seeks to identify and support innovative start-ups and advanced technologies. The new cohort will focus on enhancing the league's priorities in fan engagement, on-field performance, and media technology.

The MLS Innovation Lab was established in the autumn of 2023 to advance the league's leadership in sports technology. After nine months of evaluation, selected companies showcased their innovations at the 2024 MLS All-Star Game in Columbus.

This event featured live demonstrations of cutting-edge technologies such as advanced GPS player tracking, AI-driven real-time language dubbing, and augmented reality experiences for fans.

In its second iteration, companies will have the chance to present their ideas in real-world settings within the MLS ecosystem. This includes opportunities at events like December's MLS NEXT Fest in California, the Generation adidas Cup, the MLS NEXT Cup, and the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by All-State.

MLS Senior Vice President of Emerging Ventures, Chris Schlosser, mentioned the excitement of joining forces with scalable businesses from around the world.

“MLS continues to be at the forefront of innovation in global sports, The Innovation lab program provides an unparalleled opportunity for high performing companies to turbo-charge their growth, and to showcase their capabilities to the soccer world,” he said via press release.

“We are very excited to partner with this group of excellent start-ups from around the world to co-create new ideas and push the boundaries in sports.”

The following companies have been selected for the second cohort of the MLS Innovation Lab:

Edge Sound Research

EDGE Sound Research is a US-based leader in multimodal audio technology for live entertainment venues and virtual environments. The company focuses on real-time audio object isolation to create personalised experiences for diverse audiences. This innovation allows users to immerse themselves in the worlds of their favourite athletes, musicians, or characters, making unforgettable moments accessible through advanced sound technology.

OLIVER Sports

Based in Spain, OLIVER Sports is at the forefront of player performance monitoring technology, utilising AI to make elite-level data accessible to all soccer players and clubs. Their GPS trackers gather both athletic and soccer-specific metrics, including ball interactions. By providing actionable insights, OLIVER Sports enables coaches and players to improve performance, minimise injuries, and optimise training.

Soccerment

Soccerment, based in Italy, is a sports technology firm offering AI-driven data analytics tools and scalable tracking solutions to improve performance analysis across all levels of soccer. By focusing on proprietary performance indicators and advanced metrics like Expected Goals, Soccerment provides clubs, academies, and players with valuable insights. Their ecosystem features two key products: XSEED, smart shin guards that gather data, and XVALUE, a soccer analytics platform that delivers advanced metrics for match analysis and scouting.

Sportlight

Sportlight Technology is a UK-based sports tech startup that is transforming athlete tracking, physical performance, and injury risk management through its patented LiDAR and AI technology. Their wearable-free system provides elite sports organisations with exceptional accuracy and insights, enhancing player development, injury risk assessment, and rehabilitation. Installed in major stadiums in both the U.S. and abroad, Sportlight is a trusted partner for elite sports teams and leagues.

Lubu

Lubu Technologies, based in Los Angeles, is developing AI-powered wearable technologies aimed at improving athletic performance and recovery. The company has created a footwear-focused solution that analyses how the force of every step, sprint, and cut impacts performance and health. By tracking force impacts, cleat performance, and foot pressure during critical moments, Lubu offers athletes and coaches valuable insights to help optimise performance and enhance gameplay.

Wicket

Wicket, based in Cambridge, Mass, offers a facial authentication platform that enhances event experiences at over 40 stadiums across the U.S. and internationally. Utilising patented computer vision technology, Wicket partners with industry leaders to provide an exceptional guest experience through facial recognition for ticketing, payments, access control, and credentialing. As a privacy-first company, Wicket’s products are designed for opt-in use only.

For additional information on MLS Innovation Lab, click here.

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TransferRoom, the world's exclusive football transfer marketplace, has welcomed its first A-League members with five clubs from Australia and New Zealand joining the platform.

Adelaide United FC, Auckland FC, Melbourne City FC, Wellington Phoenix FC, and Western Sydney Wanderers FC now have immediate access to a vast global network of transfer opportunities.

The platform connects over 800 football clubs and 500 agencies across more than 100 leagues worldwide providing club executives through an integrated messaging system direct communication with key decision-makers and clubs offering real-time insights into specific player criteria and availability, transfer requirements and market intelligence.

Operating on a subscription-based model, TransferRoom charges fees based on factors such as club or agency size, contract length, and chosen subscription package, but notably does not take commission on any transfers.

Simon Ankersen, Director of Club Relations at TransferRoom, champions the new partnership with the A-League clubs.

“We are thrilled to welcome five A-League sides to TransferRoom. TransferRoom enables club directors to be aware of the buying market's needs and trends at all times, and the ability to proactively promote their talents to relevant buying clubs,” he said via press release.

TransferRoom has several league-wide agreements, including Mexico’s Liga MX, MLS, Danish Superliga, Polish Ekstraklasa, Norwegian Eliteserien and OBOS-ligaen, Venezuela’s LIGA FUTVE and the 3. Bundesliga in Germany. In England, 17 of 20 Premier League clubs are TransferRoom users.

Auckland FC has used TransferRoom to help sign Luis Felipe Gallegos and Auckland FC’s Director of Football, Terry McFlynn has commented on their important role.

"TransferRoom has been an invaluable tool in our recruitment process, particularly as a new club building a competitive squad from scratch,” he said via press release.

“It’s helped us get to where we are today, and we’re excited about the possibilities it will unlock for us in future transfer windows."

Melbourne City’s Director of Football, Michael Petrillo also follows suit after the signings of German Ferreyra, Yonatan Cohen, and Andreas Kuen.

"TransferRoom is an important tool that allows us to provide and receive up-to-date information on player availability and movements with clubs right across the globe. It has already made a positive contribution to our scouting and recruitment process," he said via press release.

Since 2017, TransferRoom has transformed the football transfer landscape, facilitating more than 6,000 professional player transfers through its innovative digital marketplace, with the platform expanded in 2021.

Beyond its digital presence, TransferRoom organises several in-person summits with the next major event scheduled for November 11-12 in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Decision-makers from more than 300 clubs and 40 agencies will convene for what promises to be football's largest transfer market gathering.

Although A-League teams should focus on building squads through homegrown talent from scouting and academies to help advance Australia’s footballing prowess, TransferRoom’s inclusion into the A-League has given the teams a much-needed boost in the competitive transfer market.

It can be seen as a positive partnership for the A-League and will allow the league to continue making marquee signings and rise in the footballing world.

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Borussia Dortmund (BVB) has signed a multi-year deal with WSC Sports to utilise its AI-driven sports content technology.

This partnership grants BVB access to WSC Sports' innovative AI-driven platform, which automates video content creation, management, and distribution. This technology will allow the club to engage more consistently with its global fan base through personalised AI-enhanced sports video experiences.

WSC Sports' technology will analyse BVB's live matches in the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and UEFA club competitions in real-time, automatically generating and sharing content with fans through social media and BVB-TV, the club’s official streaming platform and primary hub for Black and Yellow supporters.

Alongside generating real-time content during games, WSC Sports will also analyse five years of BVB’s archived matches. This enables thousands of memorable moments from the club’s history, previously only seen in a traditional 16:9 format, to be adapted into various aspect ratios for any platform.

Converting these videos into a vertical 9:16 format will help the club engage younger fans, presenting these iconic moments in their preferred style of content consumption.

The collaboration with WSC Sports will enable BVB to provide more high-quality video content, fostering ongoing connections and engagement with fans year-round. Additionally, the WSC Sports platform will help BVB optimise its digital assets, unlocking new revenue opportunities for its digital content and inventory.

Borussia Dortmund Director of Communications, Sascha Fligge, discussed the importance of digital content.

“Our digital content strategy is extremely important as the key way to engage our global fanbase who cannot be with us physically at every match. We are delighted to partner with WSC Sports whose AI-powered technology will propel our ability to produce and share more great content around the games and, importantly, in the period between live matches, keeping up fan engagement throughout the year,” he said via press release.

“The platform’s ability to unlock our video archive means we’re now making full use of this valuable content, providing fans with iconic moments from the past at ease and we can explore fresh opportunities to monetise this content. We know our fans are extremely passionate and we want to ensure they receive more of the content they crave, on the viewing platform of their choice.”

Chief Business Development Officer and Co-Founder of WSC Sports, Aviv Arnon echoed similar sentiments.

“It’s a thrill to partner with a club of BVB’s stature who have one of the most passionate and recognizable fan bases across all sports. WSC Sports is a proven formula for expanding reach, growing fandom, and unlocking revenue opportunities across platforms and we are excited to realize this opportunity with BVB,” he said via press release.

“BVB has seen firsthand the possibilities that our AI-powered video content solutions enable through our collaboration with the Bundesliga. Now the club will bring those same innovative solutions home, to supercharge content production and facilitate more original storytelling, which will ultimately increase engagement levels across all club platforms.”

BVB joins a growing network of football clubs and leagues using WSC Sports' AI-powered platform, including the Bundesliga, LaLiga, Serie A, the Belgian Pro League, and clubs from Europe’s top leagues.

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In 2025, the brightest minds in global sports will once again converge in Victoria for SportNXT Melbourne, the state’s premier sports business summit, supported by the Allan Labor Government.

Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport, and Major Events, confirmed earlier in the month that the three-day SportNXT event will return to Melbourne next March, featuring prominent speakers from around the globe to explore the latest trends in the sports industry.

Past speakers that have appeared for SportNXT have been Manchester United COO Collete Rochie, Football Australia CEO James Johnson, FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 Head of Marketing Kim Anderson and Head Coach of Western United John Aloisi.

The SportNXT summit attracts participants from diverse organisations, such as the NFL, The Walt Disney Company, the NBA, and the Australian Sports Commission. The 2024 summit saw nearly 1,000 attendees and featured a program packed with discussions on key issues, including the latest advancements in sports technology.

During the summit, speakers and delegates have the opportunity to explore Melbourne's world-class sporting infrastructure, which has positioned Victoria as a global leader in attracting major sporting events.

SportNXT will highlight Victoria's strengths in sports innovation and technology, with 40 percent of Australia’s SportsTech companies located in the state, employing nearly half of the industry's national workforce.

First held in Melbourne in 2022, SportNXT showcases Victoria's vibrant events calendar, which contributes approximately $3.3 billion annually to the state's economy.

The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, mentioned the importance of this event.

“This three-day event brings global leaders from across the sporting world to Australia’s sporting and major events capital,” he said via press release.

“SportNXT has quickly become a must-do event for sporting heavyweights from around the world – and we’re giving them the chance to see first-hand how well we do major sporting events here in Victoria.”

SportNXT Co-Founder, Bart Campbell, mirrored the same thoughts.

“With the support of the Victorian Government, SportNXT brings together the most influential leaders in sport. It has delivered significant trade outcomes for the industry and is a must attend event for anyone engaged in the business of sport. It’s where senior executives from across the globe gather in Melbourne to connect, inspire and do business,” he said via press release.

Further details about SportNXT 2025, including the line-up of key speakers, will be confirmed in the coming months, for more information click here.

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Northern NSW Football has confirmed the renewal of its formal alliance with VEO, the AI-driven automatic football camera.

NNSWF has been an official collaborator with Veo since 2020, becoming one of the first Australian clients of the Copenhagen-based company.

Veo offers an affordable, all-in-one solution that allows football clubs of any size to automatically record and analyse matches and training sessions.

The portable Veo camera features two 4K lenses that capture a 180-degree field of view, enabling clubs to record every moment of a game in stunning video quality. This makes recording, watching, re-watching, and analysing football simpler than ever. The latest model, the Veo Cam 3, offers enhanced video quality, 5G live streaming, and an extended control range for remote operation.

Veo's mission has consistently been to provide football recording and AI analysis to all clubs, regardless of their size, financial resources, or skill levels. Veo cameras are utilised by clubs at every level throughout northern NSW and Australia.

Veo has recently launched a new feature for users of the Veo 2 and 3 cameras. The 'Player Spotlight' feature clips footage of individual players on the field, identified by their shirt numbers, facilitating quick and easy analysis.

Since their partnership began in 2020, Veo has introduced 'Veo Live,' enabling any club or team to livestream their matches from anywhere without the need for a camera operator. This feature allows games to be streamed on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and other preferred services.

NNSWF CEO Peter Haynes stated that he was happy to renew the partnership with Veo.

“NNSWF is thrilled to continue this partnership for another two years and provide our clubs with exclusive deals and discounts,” Haynes said via press release.

“Veo has been very useful for our organisation and we are looking forward to seeing how this can continue to help clubs in our region.”

Veo Market Lead for APAC, Jerry Jarnald, expressed his enthusiasm for continued collaboration with Northern NSW Football.

“At Veo, we are grateful for the continued trust from Northern NSW Football and its member clubs,” Jarnald said via press release.

“The adoption rate has been fantastic since 2021 when we started, with 100% of the NPL and Hit 106.9 Northern League One clubs, as well as around 45% of the Zone Football League clubs, choosing Veo as their recording solution so far. It’s a testament to the strong partnership we’ve built, but also to the clubs being progressive and aiming high with their player development.”

To find out more about Veo, click here.

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Cosm is a company at the forefront of revolutionising how audiences experience sports and entertainment, leveraging cutting-edge immersive technology to deliver incredible fan experiences.

Through a large portfolio of media solutions, including live immersive production for both Shared Reality and Virtual Reality (VR), advanced broadcast and linear technology, and state-of-the-art hardware, Cosm is reshaping the global fan engagement landscape.

Cosm was established in 2020 when technology companies Spritz, Inc., Evans & Sutherland and LikeLike VR (now Cosm Immersive) all joined forces to create an integrated experience technology solution to power their current Cosm immersive experiences.

Cosm Tech have three different markets: Science & Education, Sports & Entertainment, and Parks & Attractions.

This is how their Sports & Entertainment technological advancements help shape fan experience:

Completely new innovation in Sports and Entertainment

Cosm’s innovative approach, which includes technologies that haven't been utilised to this capacity, help bring fans closer than ever to iconic events in real-time.

By blending immersive hardware with sophisticated software solutions, Cosm allows audiences to experience their favourite sports and entertainment events in dynamic, 8K+ environments.

This unique combination offers fans unparalleled access to live games, concerts, cinematic experiences, and other world-class entertainment in ways never before possible.

One of Cosm’s standout innovations is CX System—an all-encompassing technological solution that integrates top-tier hardware and software for immersive entertainment. This system includes curved LED displays and CX Engine, a groundbreaking software platform for real-time content rendering, blending, and playback.

Enhancing the Fan Experience with Live Immersive Production

Through Cosm Immersive, the company’s content production and distribution division, Cosm collaborates with major leagues, teams, and broadcasters to deliver live events in 8K resolution to global audiences.

The company currently have a deal with NBC Sports in America to bring an expansive offering of live Premier League soccer matches to Shared Reality. This is the first time the Premier League will be available in Shared Reality for audiences.

Cosm's unique production capabilities allow fans to engage with their favourite events using VR headsets, mobile apps, or in dedicated immersive venues located in the United States—blurring the lines between reality and virtual engagement.

As part of its innovation journey, Cosm’s C360 division delivers immersive video solutions that seamlessly integrate with major broadcasting networks and sports media companies.

The C360 division allows broadcasters to use advanced camera systems and computer vision technology to provide fans with cutting-edge viewing experiences.

Key Partnerships and Projects

The NBC Sports partnership is one of many that Cosm have secured over their short time, with many major leagues and broadcasters recognising its excellence.

Other big name partners in the sports world include NBA, UFC, ESPN, and Fox Sports in the US where they provided fans with live immersive 8K events at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Park for the Copa America earlier this year.

Shaping the Future of Fan Engagement

Cosm’s mission is clear: to transform outdated viewing experiences—whether on traditional TV or even mobile streaming—by offering a fresh, innovative approach.

From sports arenas to art exhibitions, Cosm is redefining how we experience live events, whether from the comfort of our own homes or in immersive shared venues.

Conclusion

What sets Cosm apart from other tech companies is its focus on creating shared venue experiences, adding a social dimension to immersive technology.

Unlike the typically individual experience of virtual sports viewing, Cosm's immersive events are designed to bring people together, combining cutting-edge tech with a communal atmosphere for a more interactive and engaging experience.

As immersive, virtual, and shared reality technologies rapidly evolve and increase in popularity, it's evident that the future of sports is shifting beyond traditional TV broadcasts, with the modern era of interactive and dynamic viewing experiences ready to take over in the next generation.

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At Lenovo’s annual Tech World innovation event, the technology giant was unveiled as the Official FIFA Technology Partner, FIFA’s highest sponsorship category.

This strategic partnership covers the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, as well as the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

Lenovo’s role as FIFA's technology partner will help enhance fan experiences, broadcasts, and football’s global reach by integrating cutting-edge technology across the tournaments.

With these two high-profile events serving as a global platform, Lenovo aims to strengthen its brand presence while contributing to the growth and accessibility of the sport worldwide.

Lenovo's technology portfolio, including innovations powered by artificial intelligence (AI), ThinkPad laptops, tablets, Motorola mobile phones, and servers, will play a key role in elevating the football experience.

These products and solutions will be used to power enhanced fan engagement in stadiums, improve global broadcasts, boost analytics, and democratise data for football-playing nations globally.

This collaboration is expected to have a far-reaching impact, as Lenovo and FIFA plan to leverage AI and other technologies to grow the game internationally and make football more accessible to a broader audience.

Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yuanqing Yang discussed the excitement of implementing their technology on the world football stage.

“As one of the world’s leading technology companies, we’re delighted to partner with the world’s most global and popular sport," Yang said at the event.

"Lenovo will be powering the largest sporting and entertainment events in human history – events with more viewers, more nations participating, and an unprecedented global demand for data processing and technology.

“Lenovo is proud to support FIFA’s vision of leveraging technology to elevate the game, enhance the fan experience worldwide, and foster innovation that levels the playing field.

"We’re excited that our cutting-edge technology and AI innovation will take centre stage in the upcoming tournaments, demonstrating to the world the transformative power of smarter technology.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke about the organisations view on utilising tech to improve fan experience.

“At FIFA, we are committed to growing the game globally and making football accessible for all – and we are excited to welcome Lenovo to our journey, and to work with them to implement technologies, innovations and programmes that spread our sport," Infantino said at the event.

"Data and technology combined helps us to know fans better, and we will use it to create unparalleled and unforgettable fan experiences at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

“In Lenovo, we have a partner who will support us as we evolve and innovate, investing in digital technology and artificial intelligence for future generations.”

The primary focus of this partnership is to transform the fan experience, both in stadiums and through broadcasts.

Lenovo's cutting-edge AI technology is just one of the many innovations that will be leveraged to explore new possibilities in the ever-evolving fan engagement landscape.

This collaboration presents a unique opportunity to redefine what the future of broadcasting and fan interaction could look like, offering exciting potential for the next generation of football viewing experiences.

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FIFA has entered into a partnership with Konami to use its eFootball game for the FIFAe World Cup.

This collaboration will feature two tournaments, one for console and one for mobile, with participants from 18 nations competing for the title of FIFAe world champion.

This move is part of FIFA's strategy to maintain relevance in gaming and esports, particularly in engaging younger fans. FIFA has also expanded its esports portfolio with deals involving Rocket League and Football Manager.

The partnership fills the void left by EA Sports following their high-profile split with FIFA in 2022. Konami's eFootball, an evolution of the Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) series, is currently the only comparable game to EA Sports FC on the market.

FIFA’s Chief Business Officer, Romy Gai, has championed the new deal highlighting their excitement at the prospect.

"We are incredibly excited to join forces with Konami, this collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to promote football globally and to provide a platform for players to showcase their skills."

Konami the Japanese gaming company, this partnership provides legitimacy and increased awareness for eFootball, which has struggled to compete with EA Sports in recent years.

The collaboration is seen as a necessary step for FIFA, given the lack of alternatives and the time it would take to develop a new soccer simulation game. It allows FIFA to continue its presence in soccer-based esports while exploring other gaming opportunities.

Esports has grown massively in viewership and investment over the last decades, it has become a major part of the franchising side of football.

Even in Australia the rise in Esports popularity has coincided with the rise in football popularity, one can not argue against their connection towards football popularity.

FIFA have shown that Esports has become an ever-present strategy in their development of the game. For investors and shareholders in football, Esports impact is something that should not be disregarded.

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The 2024 Australia Sports Innovation Week (ASIW), the Southern Hemisphere's premier sports technology event, takes place in Melbourne from Tuesday, October 22 to Friday, October 25, 2024. Attendees can explore a variety of events to tailor their ideal Sports Innovation Week experience.

Some of the events that will be included in the week are the following:

Women-led Design

Presented by Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN), this event showcases pioneering women founders who have transformed the industry with their innovative products and solutions in sports apparel, protective gear, health and fitness initiatives, and children's physical development.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage with these innovations, uncover the stories behind their success, gain valuable insights into their design philosophies, and learn how they are influencing the future of sports, participation, and sportstech.

This event is ideal for those interested in the convergence of sports, technology, and women-led innovation.

Click here to find out more information about this event.

Performance Workshop Series

The Performance Workshop Series is crafted to provide an overview and insights into three critical areas where cutting-edge sports psychology approaches can be applied to sports clubs, organisations, and athletes.

Over the course of three workshops, attendees will gain a foundational understanding of developing a performance psychology curriculum, creating high-performance environments, and implementing mental conditioning programs.

Participants have the option to attend individual workshops or all three sessions.

Click here to find out more information.

Sport Textiles Innovation Workshop

In recent years, sporting apparel has undergone significant innovation, driven by research into new materials, manufacturing techniques, seamless bonding technologies, and other advancements that are paving the way for new consumer and professional sportswear.

The RMIT textiles team will offer insights into recent industry collaborations and projects, along with a tour of their textiles research and testing lab, which is spearheading innovation in Melbourne.

Click here for more information about this workshop.

Industry professionals should attend these events at Sports Innovation Week to stay ahead of cutting-edge developments in sports technology, network with leaders and innovators, and gain valuable insights into the latest trends shaping the future of sports, performance, and athlete well-being.

These events provide opportunities to learn about groundbreaking advancements, from performance psychology to sports apparel, that can enhance their expertise and drive innovation in their own organisations.

Click here to learn more about the other events.

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Football Victoria has confirmed an agreement with Vinage Customs to be the creators of the signage for The Home of the Matilda's facility.

Established in 2013, Vinage Customs specialises in design, print and signage, this collaboration with Football Victoria will see innovative signage solutions implemented throughout the football facility.

Vinage Customs has worked with tier 1, 2 and 3 commercial builders and developers making a range of signage options. They have also produced signage for smaller businesses and interested parties.

Vinage’s Customs Director Adrian D'Altorio expressed his excitement at the deal.

"Vinage is proud to be a part of the FV family at The Home of the Matildas, offering our premium signage services and building a long-term business relationship," he said via press release.

The sentiment was echoed by FV's Commercial Executive Manager, Chris Speldewinde via press release. 

"We're thrilled to have Vinage Customs on board as the Preferred Signage Partner. Their expertise will add tremendous value to our venue, enhancing the visual experience for everyone involved."

Vinage Customs will receive exclusive brand promotion opportunities through FV while delivering its comprehensive signage solutions to the venue. This partnership aims to contribute to the ongoing development of The Home of the Matildas.

As a locally based company in Tullamarine, Melbourne, this partnership showcases FV’s focus on getting local businesses involved in all aspects of the footballing community.

It also indicates to interested local investors and businesses that FV is more than willing to be more engaged with and promote local growing businesses.

Not only is the Home of the Matildas a place to find and grow local footballing talent, but Football Victoria is also making the facility a place to discover and support local growing businesses and investors.

This is a positive move in connecting the local business community with the growing local talent in the footballing world.

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Softseed is a rapidly growing global Software as a service (SaaS) company with a diverse team of top developers - and their goal is to create Virtual Reality (VR) and Immersive Reality (IR) technology for consumers to broadcast events.

The company was established as recently as 2013 by three founders in Berlin who had an academic and media background.

They now have three locations that the company work out of: Berlin (Head Office), Bangkok (Product Development) and Palma de Mallorca (Sales & Distribution).

The Berlin-based start-up have three products (PLAIGROUND®, LOKI® and RE-PLAY®) based off this ever popular technology that allows people around the globe to enjoy their favourite content not as a spectator but to be right in the middle of it.

The company mentions the fact that Immersive Reality is the future of the entertainment industry because of its data processing speed and its sustainability compared to other similar technologies.

Products:

PLAIGROUND®

PLAIGROUND® is a cutting-edge, proprietary software solution designed to deliver live Immersive Reality experiences to the mass market. This patented solution is based on a novel 3DIR codec which execs said was an adaptation of the MV-HEVC codec, a Multiview extension of HEVC, developed by Fraunhofer ISS and for which Softseed is a test partner.

The technology sets the standard in innovation and performance, offering unmatched colour depth, frame rate, motion clarity, noise reduction, and resolution.

With extremely low latency, PLAIGROUND® ensures consistent 10K 3D stereoscopic quality at over 90Hz and a minimum of 30fps at a bitrate of 100mbit and 10-bit colour depth. This advanced technology is ideal for ultra-fast sports and music events that demand flawless live streaming as part of an individualised Immersive Reality experience.

LOKI®

LOKI® is the world’s first cloud-based Virtual-IR-Receiver, using AI-powered computing to process, encrypt, and adapt IR data for personalised playback on any device.

LOKI® can convert 2D video into native 3D in real-time, creating smooth, immersive 360° 3D video in 8K resolution—even from lower-quality input. Additionally, it seamlessly combines two 180° 3D video streams into a single 360° 3D image at 8K or 10K resolution.

RE-PLAY®

RE-PLAY® is an advanced software solution designed to monetise live event replays for a wider audience.

Exclusively on the Apple Vision Pro, RE-PLAY® delivers stunning 11K 3D stereoscopic quality, up to 90fps, with a 500MB/s bitrate and 10-bit colour depth. All of this includes a 360° camera and multiple angles that allows viewers to watch however they would like.

This system works with top tier audio and video devices ensuring a smooth, immersive experience that is perfect for sporting and musical events.

Involvement in 2024 German Supercup

Softseed featured in the 2024 German Supercup between Leverkusen and Stuttgart. Germany's annual curtain-raiser in Leverkusen was the German Football League’s (DFL’s) latest chance to show off its innovative side.

The 30,000-seat BayArena was the scene for the DFL to deliver the world’s first 10K resolution VR live stream of a football match in partnership with Berlin-based tech start-up Softseed.

Fans were able to watch a 360-degree, 10K resolution stream of the SuperCup, with the stream providing a view for users that was as if they were standing in the stadium. Multiple perspectives were offered in the live trial and the Apple Vision Pro was used as the product to showcase this technology.

The 10K live stream had a latency of under 35 seconds, a remarkably short timeframe given one terabyte of data per minute is being processed. It provided a look-in to the potential future of how fans watch a streamed game.

Conclusion

Softseed Technologies have created groundbreaking technology which, even in its infancy, is proving to be a potential game-changer in how sports and music events are viewed using Immersive and Virtual reality.

It is a unique product that is proving successful and the technology is almost certainly going to be licenced by large sporting or music organisations in the near future.

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MatchTracker is a performance analysis software designed to support teams with pre-match preparation, live match analysis, and post-match reviews.

The data software allows clubs to enhance their tactical approach with advanced visuals and simplify the way analysts assess the club's performance.

Catapult were shortlisted in the Best Tech for Data and Analytics category at the 2023 Sports Technology Awards.

The company were recognised for their product 'Vector' that integrates wearable technology with video to provide coaches with contextualised performance insights.

This release was an industry-defining moment, since for the first time athlete performance data from Catapult’s Vector wearable devices syncs with MatchTracker.

This is how the Catapult MatchTracker technology works:

Analyse the Competition

Gain insights into the tactical and technical performance of your opponents with real-time match analysis. Track in-game trends as well as patterns across previous matches to enhance performance analysis, pre-match strategies, and talent scouting.

No Limits

Clubs can import an unlimited number of videos from any source. Whether it's footage from IP cameras or OB truck feeds, any signal or camera can be integrated into the software and shared across all applications within the network.

Teams can combine video with data such as events, tags, player positioning, and biometrics for a comprehensive view during the match. Pre-recorded videos can also be easily synced with data after the match or session has ended.

Visualisation

MatchTracker’s modules cover opposition analysis, scouting, tactical and technical performance, tempo and pace tracking, and game trend reviews.

Each module offers visualisation tools and customisable dashboards, making it easier to create presentations for coaches and players, or quickly compare teams, matches, and individual performances in a clear and consistent format.

Find Key Game Moments

Customisable automatic alerts enable you to identify crucial moments in the game swiftly. These alerts also introduce new metrics to evaluate performance during post-match analysis.

Automatic Tagging

Create sophisticated templates to streamline the tagging process, with the option to integrate this live with Focus, The Hub, or third-party tagging software.

Share Instantly

Once the game is uploaded, it’s instantly available to all users. You can use the data from the match to build custom workbooks, playlists, and whiteboards, all of which can be easily shared with others on the platform. Additionally, images, videos, and data can be exported in seconds to share with staff, players, or fans.

Conclusion

According to Catapult, MatchTracker is trusted by 70% of Premier League clubs and is used by teams and federations in the top leagues across Europe.

None better than a recent partnership confirmed with Bundesliga Champions Bayer Leverkusen, who kicked off their UCL campaign with a stunning 4-0 victory vs Feyenoord.

Their first team will be using MatchTracker to seamlessly integrate physical performance data with tactical insights through video analysis, helping them elevate match preparation and optimise training programs.

Bayer Leverkusen, under manager Xabi Alonso, achieved the incredible feat of winning the Bundesliga without a loss with an exciting, fast style of football.

He was adamant from the get-go that a statistics-driven approach would be the most efficient way to implement his attacking style of football, and this partnership will utilise the features of MatchTracker to replicate last season's success.

This technology is the future of data analysis in football and its use by many top professional clubs in Europe in its early years suggests it will be a powerhouse technology for years to come.

As data becomes more and more important in the modern game, a system like this becomes almost essential for top clubs to use in order to succeed and the many case studies completed by these clubs in regards to MatchTracker are extremely positive.

The post Catapult MatchTracker: Redefining Football Performance Analysis appeared first on Soccerscene.

Valencia CF's new official collaboration agreement will be with AQUAME for the next three seasons to equip their men's and women's first teams, as well as the VCF Academy, with AQUAME smart water bottles and hydration solutions.

AQUAME is an Australian company that specialises in sports technology using data-based hydration monitoring to contribute to better performance, recovery, and well-being.

Hydration and recovery have become central to the development and success of professional athletes and a market where top European clubs are demanding the best data quality.

AQUAME on their website explains that for clubs and teams it can help tackle key issues.

“Helps tackle key issues of over and under-drinking, ensuring each athlete maintains optimal hydration levels. This proactive solution provides a deeper understanding of why dehydration occurs, enabling teams to prevent issues before they arise,” explained on AQUAME website. 

This deal also aligns with the club's push for environmental sustainability and healthy lifestyles with the AQUAME bottles kicking out regular single-use plastic bottles.

These AQUAME bottles can also be bought at the Valencia megastore for the fans to help support the collaboration and the club's sustainability goals, not to mention help fans with their hydration practices.

The main product is the VALENCIA CF x AQUAME 2.0 smart bottles, which are a testament to advanced hydration technology. With a 630 ml capacity and up to 24-hour temperature insulation, these bottles feature a digital touch screen that displays a digital clock and precise water intake information and includes a UV sanitization function to ensure the purity of the water.

With the bottle purchase, there is an accompanying Mobile App that enhances the user experience with real-time alerts and personalised recommendations. It tracks water intake, establishes average fluid consumption, and analyses hydration patterns to optimise pre and post-exercise hydration strategies.

AQUAME have made its name known in a niche but very important and growing part of the sporting tech world and is a great representative of Australian business impact in the footballing industry space.

The post AQUAME named Valencia CF’s official collaborator appeared first on Soccerscene.

For the 2024/25 Premier League season, Liverpool FC have made sure to hit the ground running under new manager Arne Slot by teaming up with Husqvarna in an official groundskeeping partnership.

The multi-year global agreement was struck in July, where Husqvarna - a market leader in innovative and high-quality products and services for shaping green spaces in parks, forests and gardens - is with one of the world’s most historic and famous football clubs in Liverpool FC.

By being the official groundskeeping partner of Liverpool FC, the Merseyside outfit will be treated to pristine playing conditions at training and gameday in a collaboration that is the first of its kind for both organisations.

Liverpool has already been using Husqvarna’s robotic mowers since 2021, maintaining high quality standards across the AXA Training Centre, and AXA Melwood Training Centre.

This partnership will see Husqvarna provide the very best state-of-the-art equipment and innovative solutions for the Ground Management team at Liverpool FC, to maintain elite playing surfaces and its upkeep for all men’s and women’s teams.

Yvette Henshall-Bell, President Europe, Forest & Garden Division at Husqvarna, has been one of the key people to orchestrate the deal.

From the conversations that were had between Husqvarna’s Head Office in Sweden and linking up with the team in the UK, it made a logical partnership become a reality.

“Through this partnership, Husqvarna’s state-of-the-art equipment and innovative solutions will be more deeply integrated into LFC’s groundskeeping teams’ daily routines and pitch upkeep, making it a key part of creating and maintaining optimal conditions for elite level playing and training,” Henshall-Bell told Soccerscene.

“In addition, with the collaboration, Husqvarna looks forward to learning from some of the best groundskeepers in the world – enhancing our offer even further.”

Liverpool FC fans attending home matches at Anfield are also given a glimpse of what they can expect to see when they host Brentford on Matchday 2 of the Premier League.

“LFC will help raise Husqvarna’s global profile through bespoke content and activations using its award-winning social platforms, which enjoy a combined global following of 186 million,” Spence said.

“Additionally, Husqvarna branding will also be featured on the digital LED boards during matches, reaching over 400 million TV viewers per season around the world, enhancing Husqvarna’s brand visibility and awareness on a truly global scale.”

[caption id="attachment_26400" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Yvette Henshall-Bell, President Europe, Forest & Garden Division at Husqvarna.[/caption]

As a global brand, Husqvarna products are sold in more than 100 countries around the world. This includes Australia, where Liverpool FC have tapped into an International Academy in the country.

“As the partnership has only just been announced, we are currently scoping out what our local Australian activation looks like,” Vienna Spence, Marketing Manager for Husqvarna’s Brand Division Australia said.

Visit Husqvarna’s Australian-based website for the latest products and offers by clicking the link here.

The post Yvette Henshall-Bell on the official groundskeeping partnership between Husqvarna and Liverpool FC appeared first on Soccerscene.

WSC Sports is an AI-powered content product that creates more personalised content, formats, and viewing channels for sports leagues, broadcasters, clubs and organisations.

Recently, WSC Sports has pledged to revolutionise the creation of sports content to speed up the production of traditional highlight reels.

The goal for any clients dealing with WSC, and there are over 450 sporting organisations from all over the globe, is to help rightsholders create more dynamic and fan-focused content while enabling them to better monetise their rights.

As outlined on the main website, there are five key pieces to the WSC Sports puzzle that make it such a successful and effective product, and these include:

AI-Based Content Analysis

AI-driven algorithms are revolutionising the analysis, indexing, and rating of sports events across a wide range of disciplines.

These context-aware systems are designed to capture pivotal moments both on and off the field, providing deeper insights into the game.

By enriching live broadcasts, archived footage, press conferences, and media libraries with detailed metadata, organizations can ensure that content is optimized for immediate retrieval and usage.

Automated Content Creation

The demand for diverse viewing experiences has led to the need for automated content generation.

AI solutions are capable of producing relevant and engaging content tailored to a variety of formats, from live and on-demand streams to Connected TV (CTV) and vertical formats optimized for mobile applications.

Content Studio

The evolution of sports content creation is being accelerated by AI-powered editing tools specifically designed for the industry.

These solutions offer users advanced creative control, enabling faster and more efficient production workflows while maintaining high-quality output.

AI-Powered Asset Management

Content management systems enhanced by AI are enabling seamless organisation, discovery, and distribution of assets.

These systems not only optimise workflow processes but also help organisations make better use of their entire content libraries, unlocking new possibilities for repurposing indexed assets into innovative formats.

Driving Fan Engagement

Proprietary AI solutions are playing a pivotal role in enhancing fan engagement.

By delivering personalised, immersive content experiences tailored to individual preferences, sporting leagues and clubs can connect with their audiences across a wide range of platforms and viewing formats, ensuring a more dynamic and interactive experience.

LALIGA in particular have focused entirely on capturing the younger audience through platforms like Instagram and TikTok, utilising algorithm-based content to reach more people and appear more relatable to that target audience.

How it can be introduced in Australian football

There can be no arguments about the A-Leagues lack of creativity and the same could be said for posts regarding the Socceroos.

The power of social and digital media in the eye of the average, young consumer is vital as seen by the Matildas team who are just as popular for their random off-field antics as they are for their 4th placed WC finish.

A digital media overhaul in Australia is clearly on the radar, first attempted by KEEPUP which in Jose Mourinho's words; most would prefer not to speak about.

WSC Sports already works with Cricket Australia on producing entertaining content and football is this country's sleeping giant.

There is a lot of potential in this AI-generated product which can start targeting younger audiences and producing media content the sport has not seen locally especially if it wishes to grow to enormous heights.

Conclusion

WSC Sports have become increasingly prominent in the football industry, taking over the digital media strategies of many top leagues including La Liga, NWSL, Bundesliga and the Serie A.

On top of that, they have partnered recently with smaller leagues and clubs with clubs like BSC Young Boys and the Czech First division who will become a part of a 450-strong client roster who employ WSC Sports’ award-winning AI-powered technology.

The company's biggest clients include NBA, YouTube TV and ESPN with the mega success clearly indicating the future lies within AI-powered digital marketing and content creation.

To find out more about WSC Sports click here.

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Following a distinguished coaching career that included reaching the heights of the Premier League, Scott Miller is now embracing the next chapter of his professional journey.

No stranger to Australian football, Miller was Head Coach of the Newcastle Jets Men’s team and as an assistant coach for the Socceroos leading up to the 2014 World Cup. With extensive international experience from his time at Fulham FC, where he witnessed everything coaching had to offer, Miller decided in 2023 that a new direction was needed.

Now, as the Chief Commercial Officer at iReel, a Gen AI sports technology company, Miller combines his passion for coaching and sports technology to deliver valuable solutions to sporting organisations. iReel's vision is to become the leading provider of Gen AI in sport, and Miller is at the forefront of this innovative journey.

In this interview with Soccerscene, Miller reflects on his 17 years in coaching, the lessons he’s learned from working overseas compared to Australia, how iReel presented itself as an opportunity, and why sports technology is essential in today’s sporting landscape.

You’ve had experience from the Premier League to the A-League. How has your journey been so far?

Scott Miller: My background originally stems from playing in the Victorian Premier League. I signed with former NSL team the Gippsland Falcons as a youth and came through their youth system, but I didn’t make a senior appearance due to a serious leg injury. This injury gave me clarity about the longevity of a career in sport as an athlete, which led me to pursue a degree in exercise science at ACU in Melbourne.

During that time, my interest in physical performance and its alignment with football grew. I took the initiative to make as many contacts overseas as possible, which was quite a challenge pre-LinkedIn, relying on handwritten letters. I was fortunate to have family in London, which allowed me to explore opportunities there. I landed a role at Fulham FC, starting in their academy system and eventually working with the first team. Within six months, I was offered a full-time contract with the Premier League team, marking the beginning of an exciting 10-year journey.

My time at Fulham was filled with learning opportunities, including earning my UEFA A license and a degree in sports psychology. I worked with top-level managers like Chris Coleman, Roy Hodgson, Mark Hughes, Martin Jol, René Meulensteen, and Felix Magath. These experiences helped shape my career, leading to a role as an assistant coach, where we achieved multiple top-10 finishes and reached the 2010 Europa League final against Atletico Madrid—a highlight of my time at Fulham.

Were you always looking to get into coaching, or did your injury force your hand?

Scott Miller: Coaching wasn’t my initial plan, but it became a natural evolution for me. Roy Hodgson, in particular, inspired me with his methodology and the impact he had on players. With my background in high performance, football knowledge, and a passion for psychology, I naturally transitioned into coaching. By the age of 27, I was delivering sessions to Premier League players, covering various aspects of training outside of tactics.

My journey into coaching continued when Ange Postecoglou invited me to join him as an assistant with the Socceroos, which was a fantastic experience. Later, he recommended me for the head coaching role at Newcastle Jets at just 33 years old. My time working with some of the best players and coaches in the Premier League was invaluable in shaping my approach to coaching.

What insights can you share from your experiences in the UK?

Scott Miller: Football culture in the UK is deeply ingrained—it's more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. The Premier League is a global phenomenon, vastly larger in scale than the A-League, with financial and commercial resources that drive innovation and performance.

Another key difference is the highly competitive environment. The standards are ruthless, and if you’re not up to par, you’re quickly replaced. This applies to everyone, from coaches to players and support staff. I experienced this firsthand, often finding myself as the cultural link between outgoing and incoming managers due to my role as a central figure in the club's operations.

The financial resources available in the Premier League also allow for greater opportunities for coaches to build sustainable careers. The remuneration packages are significantly different compared to the A-League, providing a stable foundation for those working in football.

You are now the Chief Commercial Officer at iReel. How did that transition come about?

Scott Miller: Coaching has been a significant part of my life since I was 24, but after nearly two decades, I felt the need for a new challenge. I wanted to innovate, develop new skills, and contribute to a space that is pioneering and future-focused. The opportunity to join iReel came at the perfect time.

James Doyle, the founder of iReel, reached out to me, and knowing him for some time, I was excited to join the venture. iReel is at the forefront of Gen AI in sports, and the chance to build technology that can transform the sporting industry was too good to pass up. It’s a different kind of challenge but one that’s equally rewarding.

Why would you recommend a career in sports technology for post-playing careers?

Scott Miller: Sports technology offers a unique opportunity for players looking to transition after their playing careers. The skills developed in sports, such as communication, leadership, and performance, are highly transferable to the tech space.

The sports tech industry allows you to stay involved in the sport while also building its future. Unlike coaching or analysis roles that are often dependent on performance results, a career in sports tech lets you create something from the ground up. It's a powerful and fulfilling path that I highly recommend to anyone looking to stay connected to sports in a meaningful way.

For full information on iReel and to contact the team, you can do so here.

The post Scott Miller: From coaching to spearheading Gen AI sports technology at iReel appeared first on Soccerscene.

Football Australia has confirmed that Paramount Australia, the parent company of Network 10 and Paramount+, will be the official broadcaster for the CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos in Australia. This deal includes the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ hosted in Australia and the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™.

Over 100 international matches featuring the Matildas and Socceroos will be broadcast live, with at least 50 available on free-to-air TV.

Paramount has also secured exclusive rights to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, in a partnership with IMG.

The agreement extends through 2028, encompassing all CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos friendly matches, AFC tournaments, and Australia Cup Finals. This deal, specifically with ING, also consolidates broadcasting rights under a single platform, ensuring extensive coverage across 96% of Australian households.

With the CommBank Young Matildas opener in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Colombia 2024™ kicking off on September 1st, 2024, fans will immediately benefit from this deal.

James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, remarked: “This landmark agreement with Paramount Australia is a pivotal moment for Australian football. It brings unprecedented exposure to our national teams and provides fans with unparalleled access to the CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos.

“Innovation is the cornerstone of our approach to sustaining and expanding the influence of Australian football. Reacquiring the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) National Team rights and securing the broadcast rights to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™ are strategic moves designed to maximise control over our content, enhance fan accessibility, and unlock new revenue streams.

"These rights are integral to our strategy to secure a transformative broadcast deal that we anticipate will set new benchmarks in the valuation of football media rights in Australia. Bringing as much national team content as possible to a multi-platform partner was a key objective from a fan's perspective, and we are thrilled to achieve this.

"We look forward to our continued partnership with Paramount Australia, a relationship that has been pivotal in delivering high-quality football matches to our fans. This ongoing collaboration will be crucial as we navigate future opportunities and challenges in the dynamic media landscape.

"We also extend our gratitude to the IMG team for their invaluable support in navigating this complex negotiation with all parties involved and our friends at FIFA and AFC for their tremendous support and collaboration," concluded Mr. Johnson.

This agreement reinforces Paramount Australia's commitment to Australian football, which boasts the highest participation rate of club sport in the country and is the leading organized sport for children under 14.

With exclusive coverage of the A-Leagues, Paramount has been involved in Australian football for many years and continue to provide football fans with local broadcasts.

“Australian football fans are the winners here,” said Beverley McGarvey, President of Network 10 and Paramount Australia’s Head of Streaming and Regional Lead.

“Never before have fans had such incredible access to the sport they love, ranging from the A-Leagues all the way through to premium international games broadcast on one free-to-air network and one of Australia’s fastest-growing streaming platforms.

“Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the Paramount Australia agreement, which we see as an exciting extension of our coverage of the A-Leagues, is the opportunity for women’s football.

“All CommBank Matildas’ games at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 will be telecast by Network 10 on free-to-air television, as will all Matildas’ games in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™,” Ms. McGarvey said.

Fans can access the broadcasts via Network 10 and/or Paramount+ subscriptions, exactly like the A-Leagues coverage.

Exclusive behind-the-scenes content, interactive fan engagement opportunities, and social media initiatives will be part of this comprehensive coverage.

The full list of rights included in the agreement are:

• AFC Asian Qualifiers (FIFA World Cup 2026™ Asian Qualifiers Final Round)
  5 Sep 24 - Australia v Bahrain on Network 10, 10 Play, and Paramount+.
  10 Sep 24 - Indonesia v Australia exclusive on Paramount+.
  10 Oct 24 - Australia v China PR on Network 10, 10 Play, and Paramount+.
  15 Oct 24 - Japan v Australia exclusive on Paramount+.
  14 Nov 24 - Australia v Saudi Arabia on Network 10, 10 Play, and Paramount+.
  19 Nov 24 - Bahrain v Australia exclusive on Paramount+.
  20 Mar 25 - Australia v Indonesia on Network 10, 10 Play, and Paramount+.
  25 Mar 25 - China PR v Australia exclusive on Paramount+.
  5 Jun 25 - Australia v Japan on Network 10, 10 Play, and Paramount+.
  10 Jun 25 - Saudi Arabia v Australia exclusive on Paramount+.
• FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™ (15 matches on Network 10, all matches on Paramount+).
• AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026™ (six matches on Network 10, all matches on Paramount+).
• AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ (all matches exclusively on Paramount+).
• AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026™ and 2028™.
• All CommBank Matildas and Subway Socceroos International Friendlies 2025 to 2028 (15 CommBank Matildas Friendlies on Network 10, all matches on Paramount+ and 10 Subway Socceroos’ Friendlies on Network 10, all matches on Paramount+).
• Australia Cup Finals 2025 to 2028.

The post Football Australia and Paramount Australia confirm historic multi-year media rights deal appeared first on Soccerscene.

LEDiL was first founded in 2002 by Tomi Kuntze and Hannu Hukkanen who designed LED lighting solutions for the automotive industry.

In their 22 years of existence, the company have released 15 specialist products, nine of them indoors and the other six outdoors.

The company have released a blueprint for both their 'Sports Indoor Lighting' and 'Sports Outdoor Lighting' products which cover multiple different sports and the dimensions of their usual playing ground, with a solution on how to create competitive lighting best effectively.

However focusing on football, LEDiL's S Beam lighting systems are the solution to clubs wanting effective and compliant stadium floodlighting with the needs and requirements of the leagues they play in.

The technology is complex and has been a project that the company have worked on for a while before being first utilised by FK Mačva, the club on top of the Serbian first division.

How does S beam lighting work?

S-beam is a semi-symmetrical beam intended for stadium lighting with special shape of light distribution consisting of two cut-off zones and effective uniformity zone.

With traditional symmetrical beam lighting, it creates an oval-shaped area of light meaning that the light must be titled upwards in order to cover enough space for the clubs to reach the necessary lighting requirements.

This compromise leads to a worse viewing experience for fans at the ground, broadcasters who film the matches on worse lighting, effects the players performance during the match and increases light pollution in the nearby areas of the neighbourhood.

The lens directs the beam from the LEDs more efficiently by controlling the spill light vertically and providing more light to all areas of the ground.

Benefits of LEDiL LED system

- The use of LEDs has resulted in an energy saving of more than 55% reduction in energy costs.

- Reduced energy consumption leading to vastly reduced electrical installation costs and a faster payback.

- The calculated lifetime of the installation is up to 20 times longer than a conventional halogen solution, leading to a considerable saving in maintenance costs for clubs. This is a massive benefit with costs being a main reason why clubs stay away from starting upgrades.

- Improved lighting conditions for players (Training, ability to host night matches).

- Better viewing experience for the fans at the ground.

Optics

Optics distribute the power of LEDs efficiently, something that is especially important in larger sporting arenas and stadiums.

LEDiL utilise their optics to also reduce power consumption and the number of other components such as LEDs and further reducing the investment needed.

Optics play an essential role in ensuring lighting meets the strict league and competition requirements of different sporting codes, especially football.

Similarly to LEDs, Optics save cost and reduce time of instalment which increases efficiency.

How Australian football can use LEDiL

LEDiL currently doesn't have a presence in Australia and their simple but effective LED and Optics system is perfect for NPL and State League clubs.

The company's experience in urban and local areas would improve many parks and grounds that require a better lighting standard.

For a country that is rather tight on its football budget, saving money and being more sustainable is important and the values coincide with LEDiL's business model, making it a really good fit.

Conclusion

The LED lighting future is one that mirrors the company's vision which is to enhance wellbeing and safety with a goal for a more sustainable future and improved quality of life.

LEDiL are the future of sports stadium lighting, and the efficiency of the product will be a hot commodity in the industry.

The post LEDiL: Producing more effective football stadium lighting appeared first on Soccerscene.

Ticketchainer is a Paris-based tech company that is focusing on transforming the sports ticketing industry from a simple sales tool to a comprehensive e-commerce platform that is suited to the needs of its clients.

Founded in 2019, Ticketchainer has now worked with many sports clubs and organisations across France, including Ligue 2 side AC Ajaccio, offering a product that provides:

• A personalised purchase journey with a customised user experience and interface, integrating the best e-commerce practices with a responsive design adapted to computers, tablets and smartphones.
• A back office for ticketing management which configures events and subscriptions, while displaying real-time tracking of ticket sales and combined offers.
• A fixed and mobile access control management through a dedicated mobile application, personal digital assistants (PDAs) with the Ticketchainer Application Programming Interface (API), or interfacing with existing fixed access control systems.

Co-founder and CEO of Ticketchainer, Sami Bouden, explains how the idea of Ticketchainer all came about in an article with ENSTA Paris:

"Sport, and football in particular, is the events sector where ticketing is the most complex to manage: numbered seats, annual or half-season subscriptions, security, there are many parameters to take into account," he said.

"It seemed to me to be a challenge that was both captivating and within my reach. That's how the idea of ​​Ticketchainer was born."

In addition, Ticketchainer decided to branch out internationally becoming the ticketing platform for the 2023 African Cup of Nations, which was a massive achievement for the tech company.

"It was a huge satisfaction for the team because we won this competition ahead of all the big names in the sector, which is a strong signal for the future," Bouden added via the article with ENSTA Paris.

During the build-up, Ticketchainer launched their online ticketing platform that covered the six stadiums used for the tournament which had a capacity ranging from 25,000 to 60,000 seats.

In addition, they also deployed 70 box offices across the Ivory Coast to sell physical tickets utilising their technology for digital payments.

In approximately three months, Ticketchainer sold over a million tickets for the 2023 African Cup of Nations. They also had to manage more than 350,000 connections per day, selling 25,000 tickets daily for several weeks.

However, the French tech company did come across some technical challenges along the way.

"Security was of course a crucial aspect, but we had anticipated the issue very well and all attempts at fraud were foiled. We worked enormously to adapt our technology to the scale of the event and make it safe and robust. And it worked perfectly," Bouden said in an article with ENSTA Paris.

Although still relatively new in the sports ticketing industry already working with various sporting organisations in France, Ticketchainer is looking to continue to expand in Europe after the success of the African Cup of Nations.

"Our main objective remains to consolidate our expansion on the French and European market and to become the reference solution for the most prestigious competitions," Bouden said in an article with ENSTA Paris.

"At the same time, the success of our performance at the African Cup of Nations naturally allows us to nurture ambitions on new markets, particularly in the Gulf countries, and emerging markets where the event industry is exploding. We have just proven that we have all the assets to achieve this."

Ticketchainer could prove beneficial to most sports clubs and organisations to help them get a better grasp on handling and organising ticket purchases.

Although it may be a while to see this type of technology implemented in Australia, if Ticketchainer's success in the sports ticketing scene continues we may see them expand into other continents as well as other big future sporting competitions.

The post Ticketchainer: A new look into sports ticketing management appeared first on Soccerscene.

Manchester City has unveiled the 'Virtual Etihad Stadium' - an interactive fan experience powered by Sony for fans to enjoy.

The interactive experience makes City the first sports brand to use Sony’s new FavoriteSpace service. The two global giants have been developing this fan engagement proof of concept (PoC) since their collaboration was confirmed in November 2021.

For the first time, fans can access the newly launched app, which lets Cityzens from the UK, US, and Japan join a virtual fan community to connect and celebrate the club throughout the season. Users can create personalized avatars and engage in various activities like daily challenges, social events, minigames, and co-creation features. Digital merchandise can also be redeemed within a virtual City Store.

Using data tracking technology from Hawk-Eye Innovations, a Sony group company, fans can immerse themselves in 3DCG match highlights for City's home games during the 24/25 men’s season and revisit key moments from the 23/24 season.

With the FavoriteSpace service, the club is offering new opportunities for partners like Etihad and Nissan to create innovative and engaging activations within the Manchester City experience. This includes reactive LED messaging in the Immersive Highlights for Premier League matches and tailored challenges within the interactive Stadium Tour.

Chief Marketing and Fan Experience Officer at City Football Group, Nuria Tarre expressed her excitement about the collaboration.

“We’re delighted to launch this new experience today alongside our long-term partner Sony as part of our wider strategy to embrace new technologies and continuously explore new ways to engage and entertain our audience.

“It’s exciting for us to be able to see the PoC partnership come to life with today’s launch and we’re grateful to Sony for collaborating with us to launch the Man City Virtual Etihad Stadium.

“This is the latest digital experience we have launched for our global fanbase - following success on other platforms such as Roblox and Fortnite in recent years - and we hope fans across the world will enjoy it.”

Head of New Business Development Division and Sony Group Corporation, Yuhei Yabe further elaborated how they will continue to make sports more engaging and innovative.

“We are pleased to bring this new sports experience to football fans by combining Sony’s new service, FavoriteSpace, with the attractive content provided by Manchester City.”

“Sony is committed to making the future of sports more engaging and innovative by utilising Sony’s technology and entertainment expertise. It’s been an incredible journey from the PoC phase with our partner Manchester City, and today, we are thrilled to announce the launch.

“At FavoriteSpace, we will continue to develop services that bring fans closer together, making the act of supporting their favourite teams and players even more enjoyable.”

To find out more about the Man City Virtual Etihad Stadium, click here.

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In the ever changing world of football, financial sustainability is essential, not just as a goal but as a requirement for lasting success.

Achieving financial sustainability in football requires maintaining a balance between generating revenue, managing expenses, and making strategic investments.

The strategy at St Prex is specifically designed to focus on these critical aspects, guaranteeing that clubs do more than just survive; they excel in a competitive landscape. The consulting firm offers five distinct methods to help your club achieve success and sustain long-term growth.

• Diversification of Revenue Streams

Football clubs frequently depend significantly on matchday earnings and broadcasting rights. To reduce the risks tied to these revenue streams, St Prex recommends diversifying income sources by exploring alternative avenues such as commercial partnerships, digital platforms, and global reach, St Prex recommends:

Digital Innovation: Utilising digital platforms for merchandise sales, virtual fan interactions, and exclusive content can unlock additional revenue streams. This strategy involves harnessing the power of social media, club websites, and mobile apps to deliver a cohesive and immersive fan experience. By doing so, clubs can not only boost sales and engagement but also build a stronger, more loyal fan base. The integration of e-commerce, personalised content, and interactive features on these platforms ensures that fans stay connected and invested in the club.

Commercial Partnerships: Fostering robust partnerships with sponsors and local businesses is key to developing mutually advantageous opportunities. This approach encompasses not just conventional sponsorships, but also innovative collaborations that can elevate brand visibility and generate new revenue channels. By engaging in creative joint ventures and leveraging local networks, clubs can enhance their market presence and forge lasting connections that benefit both parties.

Global Reach: Enhancing the club’s international footprint through activities such as summer tours, global merchandise sales, and collaborations with international brands can greatly increase revenue. By reaching out to new markets and engaging with fans worldwide, clubs can tap into diverse revenue streams and build a global brand presence.

• Strategic Partnerships

Forming strategic alliances is essential for maintaining financial stability. By building strong partnerships and collaborations, clubs can access new resources, share risks, and unlock additional revenue opportunities, St Prex supports:

Community Engagement: Partnering with local businesses and community initiatives to boost the club's visibility and support can significantly reinforce its connection with supporters. By engaging in community-driven projects and creating mutually beneficial relationships with local enterprises, the club can foster deeper emotional bonds with its audience, enhance local support, and build a more dedicated and engaged fanbase.

Educational Partnerships: Collaborating with educational institutions to offer training and development programs for players, staff, and the local community can create significant benefits for the club while also promoting social advancement. These partnerships provide valuable learning opportunities that enhance skills and knowledge across various levels, from on-field performance to personal and professional growth.

• Long-Term Financial Planning

Achieving long-term success requires careful planning and anticipation. St Prex assists clubs by providing guidance in areas such as:

Goal Setting: Setting well-defined, measurable financial objectives and devising strategies to achieve them is crucial for success. St Prex collaborate with clubs to establish attainable targets and formulate practical plans to meet these goals. Their approach includes assessing current financial conditions, identifying key performance indicators, and developing detailed action plans that outline specific steps and timelines.

Contingency Planning: Anticipating unexpected challenges through the establishment of strategic reserves and comprehensive risk management plans is essential for resilience. By preparing for potential financial disruptions, clubs can safeguard their core operations and maintain stability during turbulent times. This involves setting aside financial buffers, implementing risk assessment procedures, and developing contingency strategies to address various scenarios.

• Embracing Innovation

Innovation fuels progress and enhances efficiency. St Prex assists clubs by:

Technology Integration: Leveraging data analytics to boost performance, fan engagement, and operational efficiency is crucial for growth. St Prex helps clubs integrate advanced analytical tools to improve various aspects of their operations. This encompasses deploying sophisticated scouting systems to identify and recruit top talent, using performance tracking technologies to monitor and enhance player and team performance.

Digital Transformation: Embracing digital tools and platforms is essential for optimising operations, enhancing communication, and elevating the fan experience. This approach covers a wide range of technologies, from advanced ticketing systems that simplify purchases and manage attendance to virtual reality experiences that offer immersive and engaging content for fans. Additionally, implementing digital solutions such as mobile apps, CRM systems, and social media integrations can further improve operational efficiency and strengthen connections with supporters.

• Rigorous Cost Management

Proper cost management is crucial for maintaining financial stability. St Prex offers:

Budgeting Tools: Sophisticated budgeting solutions are essential for monitoring and managing expenses effectively. St Prex provides advanced tools designed to help clubs meticulously track their expenditures and ensure that each dollar is allocated efficiently. These tools offer detailed insights into spending patterns, identify areas for potential savings, and facilitate more accurate financial forecasting.  

Operational Efficiency: Enhancing operational efficiency to lower overhead costs and boost productivity is crucial. This process involves optimising staffing levels to ensure the right balance of personnel, improving energy efficiency to reduce utility expenses, and utilising technology to automate routine tasks and streamline workflows. By adopting these measures, clubs can minimise operational expenses, increase overall efficiency, and focus resources on strategic initiatives.

In 2020, St Prex Consulting expanded its expertise in the football industry by acquiring Impact Soccer. Established in 2013, Impact Soccer was a leading consultancy in Australia, collaborating with universities, clubs, federations, and state organisations at various levels, from community and youth to professional football. This acquisition has bolstered St Prex's presence in the Asia-Pacific region and introduced additional expertise in player development, coaching, and grassroots initiatives. Combined with the existing global network, St Prex Consulting is now positioned to provide more tailored, high-impact solutions to clients across Australia and beyond.

Notably, Impact Soccer pioneered Australia's first Diploma of Football program, offering students elite-level coaching, personalised strength and conditioning, and academic support through a university partnership. This innovative program enabled aspiring players to enhance their skills both on and off the field through a comprehensive football education.

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Spiideo is a Swedish startup based around their high quality advanced AI-powered cameras that help clubs and leagues analyse, capture and broadcast footage at any level.

The company has risen to prominence in rapid time, becoming extremely successful and well-known in the industry 12 years after they were first founded by CEO Patrik Olsson and Chairman, Örjan Johansson. They have partnerships and connections with many of the top leagues and clubs around the world in multiple sports.

Based in Malmo, Spiideo’s camera systems are now installed at over 6,000 venues and used by more than 4,000 teams across the English Premier League, the National Basketball Association (NBA) and college sports, among others.

The company are becoming more and more prominent in the football space. In early 2024, the company expanded its relationship with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) to provide multi-angle AI automated video capture, as well as data breakdowns of every game in the competition.

The company’s two main products are its Spiideo Play cloud-based broadcasting and live streaming platform and Spiideo Perform, which is a video analysis tool.

This is how each of them work:

Spiideo Play

Spiideo Play is an advanced AI-powered broadcast tool that automates sports event production, allowing any rights holder to easily create professional broadcasts.

The company promises lower-tier leagues and niche sports ‘TV-class’ production at ‘previously unimaginable price points’ and is trying to bridge the gap between the top broadcasters and the ones without as much money.

It integrates the roles of camera operator, producer, director, and commentator into one platform, enabling full operational control and automatic content creation.

With AutoFollow™ technology, the system tracks gameplay by following player movements and set plays, ensuring smooth camera motion.

Some of the features in this technology include:

- Multi-angle auto casting

- Instant replays

- Automatic highlight generation

Spiideo Play is cloud-based, allowing for remote production of live sports content without the need for on-site teams.

Spiideo Perform

Spiideo Perform is a cloud-based sports video analysis tool that enables detailed game and player analysis, designed to enhance feedback and development for teams, clubs, and federations worldwide.

The platform uses AI-powered sports cameras to capture high-definition, panoramic footage of games, which is instantly available for analysis on any device.

Coaches can analyse footage using built-in drawing tools and customizable shapes to highlight key tactical points and share insights with the team in real-time.

The goal of this product is similar to Spiideo Play, in the way that it tries to simplify tactical analysis for coaches across many sports with a user-friendly interface and an array of options to review footage.

This streamlined process from capturing video to analysing and sharing it helps teams make more informed tactical decisions and improve overall performance.

The AI-powered sports video production and analysis company is revolutionising the way clubs broadcast their own matches, making the whole process of capturing and reviewing footage a whole lot easier.

The mass appeal of the product lies in its ease of use and the complexity of its analysis tools, all at a fairly affordable price.

For full information on Spiideo, visit their website here.

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Atletico Madrid has ambitious growth plans involving numerous infrastructure and technology projects designed to establish them as one of football's elite, but in a unique way that sets them apart from others.

An innovative initiative with a city-centric objective, the new Ciudad del Deporte (Sports City) aims to establish Madrid as a global hub for sports and sustainability. Currently under construction, this project will benefit the club and offer new facilities and green spaces that is accessible to everyone in Madrid.

Sports City will include two new municipal sports facilities for the city's residents. Besides the Estadio Civitas Metropolitano, a mini stadium with a capacity of 6,000 spectators will be constructed, and an athletics stadium will revive the Olympic spirit in a district that missed out on hosting the major sporting event in 2012.

The project will also feature an artificial wave beach designed for surfing and various sports activities within the leisure area, enhancing the recreational offerings for visitors and residents alike. Furthermore, a new hotel will be constructed just minutes away from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and the IFEMA Trade Fair Ground, offering convenient accommodation for travellers and event attendees.

This hotel will cater to both business and leisure visitors, providing modern amenities and easy access to key locations in Madrid. The comprehensive development aims to transform the area into a vibrant hub of sports, leisure, and hospitality, significantly boosting the city's appeal as a global destination.

Sustainability is a central focus of the project, with facilities meticulously designed to minimise energy consumption and reduce the environmental footprint. The club's sustainability sponsor, Civitas, is playing a leading role in this effort, ensuring that innovative and eco-friendly technologies are integrated into the development.

This includes the use of renewable energy sources, advanced energy-efficient systems, and sustainable building materials. By prioritising sustainability, the project aims to set a new standard for environmentally conscious sports and leisure complexes, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. Civitas’ involvement underscores the commitment to creating a green and sustainable environment that benefits both the community and the planet. This approach not only enhances the project's long-term viability but also positions it as a model for future developments in the realm of sports infrastructure.

The new Sports City will span over one million square meters, incorporating 33% green areas that will be integrated into the Metropolitano Forest, this green belt will encircle the city of Madrid.

Significantly for the club, the area will house its first team training ground, relocating them from their current base in Majadahonda, which is 20km away. The new facility will include six training pitches, a gymnasium, and a medical centre.

To compete with Real Madrid in the same city and the major clubs across Europe, they needed to move to a new, larger stadium. This move was essential for growth on the pitch, increasing their fan base, and enhancing the club's image.

Director of Operations, Fernando Fariza spoke to FC Business about the project.

"The 2017 move was risky from a social and economic point of view as we had to invest a lot of money. However, we Invested €330m in the stadium, which included not only the construction but also buying the land and constructing access to the motorway. Now, 100% of that stadium investment has been amortised in the first five seasons,” he said.

"How? Half of the investment was recovered through the sale of the old stadium and the land it was on. The other half, with the additional revenues the stadium generates, we have paid off the costs.

"From a social point of view, the numbers here are now incredible. We're always sold out. We have the highest number of season ticket holders in our history-60,000, We have 5,000 VIP season ticket holders. With that situation, we are now ready to make the next step.

"Around the stadium, there is a lot of land that was part of the Madrid Olympic Games bid that we didn't win. When we moved into the stadium, we started talking to the Principality. It was a crazy idea, but finally we signed an agreement to build a sports and entertainment centre around the stadium. It's not just a Sports City for Atletico Madrid; it's more than football and will be something open to everyone in Madrid.

"We always need to compete with different things. We like to be different. We always try to be near our fans and produce a different atmosphere, to create joy and a great experience. The philosophy of the Sports City is also done in that way.”

The total investment for the facilities is expected to reach an additional $336 million. The majority of this will be financed by the club and funds from the CVC Boost LaLiga fund. For the remaining amount, the club is negotiating agreements with third-party operators and specialised companies to manage some of the businesses on the site, including a hotel, a college, and the inland surf area.

"This is the final project of the new Atletico Madrid," Fariza states. "If you go back over 20 years ago, we were playing in the second division, and it was a very difficult time from an economic point of view. It took ten years to recover. In 2010, we played in the Europa League final in Hamburg against Fulham, and we won. That was our first title in many years, and it closed out a very difficult period for us.

"The second phase has been the [Diego] Simone era, during which we have moved to the new stadium, we now play in the UEFA Champions League every season and we have won trophies as well as grown our fanbase.

"Now, this is the third phase of our growth. This is the new Atletico Madrid but keeping our values and identity. That is our biggest challenge. When you grow a lot with many fans, it's hard to stay close to them."

In addition to the Sports City development, Atletico is continuing to invest in the stadium. This year has seen the capacity increase by another 2,000 from 68,000 to over 70,000, while they have transformed some of the hospitality areas to better serve a wider variety of fan groups. The club is keen to make the Estadio Civitas Metropolitano a multi-purpose venue.

Despite many critics in the A-League fan bases and football supporters alike seemed confused as to how Western United playing in Tarneit can be beneficial, it is important to remember good things do take time such as the case of Athletico Madrid. A long term project that Western United has envisioned for its members and the local area will require investments as well as the dedication from individuals to attract supporters from other teams to visit, and most importantly the state government to improve the area as a whole.

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Manchester United has introduced its unique take on fantasy football with the combined launch of Fantasy United and Player Trading Cards, in collaboration with their partner and blockchain network, Tezos.

The new fantasy football game works by users purchasing packs that cost £3 (AUD $6) with seven Playing Trading Cards. This allows Fantasy United players to own the Manchester United squad as digital collectibles, where they can build a five-man squad to earn points.

The Player Trading Cards will collect points across all competitions and will be based on the real-life performances of the selected players such as goals, assists, tackles and saves.

Some of the rewards for winning United's newest fantasy football game include:

• A once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience
• Physical 24/25 Player Trading Cards
• Merchandise signed by Manchester United players

Director of Digital Innovation at Manchester United, Ronan Joyce, said about the launch of the club's new fantasy football game:

“Player Trading Cards allows United fans to collect the whole men’s first team squad, to see those collectibles evolve throughout the season as games are played and goals are scored and have the ability to play those cards in an exciting fantasy football game," Joyce said in a media release on the club's website.

“It’s a club-first, it means you can compete against your mates all year long, and it adds even more drama and excitement to watching the Reds at Old Trafford and on the road this season.”

Head of Culture at Trilitech, Tezos R&D Hub, Sunil Singhvi added about the new Web3 fantasy football game:

“Player Trading Cards and Fantasy United is an innovative use of blockchain technology to enable United fans to have a deeper connection with their favourite club. Through dynamically updating collectibles, supporters will be able to cheer on their heroes and watch how the season develops," Singhvi said in a media release on the club's website.

“Meanwhile, they will be able to showcase their managerial prowess by selecting their squad in Fantasy United. Developed by our in-house team, it's a fun and interactive way for fans to get closer to the game and the players of Manchester United.”

The Tezos Ecosystem and Manchester United have launched previously launched campaigns such as 'The Devils', the club's original digital collection released in 2022 featuring a magnitude of unique characters inspired by the club's history.

With Web 3.0 technology making some waves around Australia despite its controversies, a new fantasy football game involving this type of technology could potentially prove to be an interesting way to entice Australian Football fans as it's never been done before.

However, it remains to be seen whether United fans are genuinely interested in spending money to build a competitive virtual squad. But by the season's end, it will show whether other teams and sporting organisations, like the A-Leagues, will venture into something like Fantasy United and utilise Web 3.0 technology.

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Strength and conditioning coaches have an important role in the footballing world; whether sorting out recovery sessions for players after games or managing muscle fatigue throughout a busy season. Certain aspects of the game have started to evolve with the introduction of new technology and AI through Myocene.

Myocene is a Liège-based life science company who are active in both the sports and medicine industry. They specialise in creating unique and innovative devices for measuring muscle fatigue and performance. 

Muscular fatigue results from a reduction in the strength and speed of muscle contractions, leading to a player becoming less efficient on the pitch and can last for several days. 

The Myocene device is built around three pillars to measure muscle fatigue:

• Myo-sensor: An Ultra-high sensitivity sensor, registered design
• Myo contractor: Provides patented high-precision control of muscle contraction
• Myo-AI: Displays accurate measurements established by a proprietary algorithm and AI

After using the Myocene technology before and after a training session or a game, data will be shown on a team's tablet or computer. With the accumulated data, it will show the quad measurements from a post-training or game condition to a rest condition.

These measurements can give strength and conditioning coaches an indication of how long an athlete should take to recover from muscle fatigue until they are fully recovered or ready to train at a certain standard. The technology also helps reduce the risk of overtraining syndrome and injury.

Myocene Sports Technology has been used by many clubs across Europe such as French sides RC Strasbourg, AS Saint Etienne and OGC Nice, as well as in Portugal with SC Braga.

Head of Performance of OGC Nice, Laurent Bessiere, discusses post-match recovery while using the technology from Myocene:

"It is the only tool which allows us to assess in the most reliable way the player's level of fitness and recovery," he said in a video on Myocene's website.

"Myocene gives us a marker or an additional index for making the right decision on the player's fitness management. It takes a couple of minutes per player, and very quickly you can measure the entire team."

Christopher Juras, OGC Nice's strength and conditioning coach, mentions not only how Myocene's technology can aid in planning out training sessions, but also how accessible it can be:

"It allows us to map the player to make decisions about training and games and [helps us] adapt training loads throughout the week," he said in a video on Myocene's website.

"It's a very easy-to-use tool, it takes up little space and if the team travels over several days it can even be carried on."

With technology seeming to be the solution to improve the game as a whole, Myocene has proven it can help improve the landscape of injury prevention and recovery for both football clubs and organisations.

Strength and conditioning coaches have had to plan training and recovery sessions based on subjective perception by surveying a player's commitment and voluntary movements.

With the use of Myocene, clubs can gain a better perspective on a player's fitness to prepare them properly in the lead-up to a game and their recovery after. This could also potentially see a decrease in the number of injuries we see in a jam-packed season filled with games across multiple competitions.

For more information about Myocene, visit their website.

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The New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport (NZCIS) has partnered with its Foundation Members (Wellington Phoenix, Wellington Rugby, Hurricanes) and the Players Associations for Rugby (NZRPA) and Football (NZPFA) to launch a Data Usage Agreement.

This agreement aims to revolutionise sports management and athlete welfare through data-driven insights.

Key points include:

1. Development of New Revenue Streams: Partners will be able to utilise advanced data analytics to help them grow in revenue with the view to become more stable as clubs. This will help the Phoenix to support good talent from abroad and invest in its current academy.
2. Secure Management of Athlete Data: The agreement will place an importance on athlete data privacy and security which safeguards their rights.
3. Facilitation of Performance Initiatives: This is focusing purely on enhancing player performance using advanced data analysis. Usage of these key data points in training and during the match will attempt to enhance results.
4. Advancement of Player Welfare Initiatives: The partnership is centred around promoting long-term health and wellness for athletes with data-driven programs. Physical and mental health is crucial for any professional athlete.

Wellington Phoenix GM David Dome commented on the unique data agreement and how it would benefit the club as it searches for its maiden league title.

"This groundbreaking data collaboration agreement across codes is an incredibly important innovation in New Zealand sport. Through NZCIS, New Zealand high performance sports is in a unique position to add some incredible insights into player performance and development," Dome said in a statement released by the member clubs.

"This agreement, utilising player data to enable learning across codes, is the first time anything like this has been achieved in this country and the potential is truly exciting.”

Jamie Tout, Director of NZCIS explained the importance of this agreement in NZ sport.

"This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in sport,” he said in a statement.

“By harnessing data responsibly, we aim to not only elevate performance but also to prioritise the comprehensive development and welfare of athletes, ensuring sustained success both on and off the field.”

In the quickly evolving word of technology, it's great for the member clubs and the Phoenix in particular to utilise advanced data to address multiple facets of the club.

This innovative partnership will make huge strides for NZ sport in the near future, and it is exciting to see what comes from it.

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From what started out as a simple solution to a tirade of hate messages against sporting icon Serena Williams during the 2019 US Open, Respondology's software has now become inherent across many business and sporting sectors.

After noticing the issue, the idea sparked behind Respondology’s main drive that is to eradicate online hate. They focused mainly on businesses as it erased unnecessary online bullying that was hindering the company’s success. Respondology provides a technology that is crucial for any social media presence today where cruel and unwanted messages are directed towards many up and coming sporting companies without any repercussions - it allows all these gruelling comments to be filtered out as soon as it pops up.

The technology uses a moderation system in which detection of any harmful content aimed at minority communities within the team or sports business are immediately muted, hence bettering the safety of the business as a whole. 

The company focuses on athletes, influencers, celebrities and brands under varying sectors to clear hate comments in order to promote a kinder social environment for both the influencer and their audience. A main facet of the company are the moderators as before the technology that sparks the filtration system, they evaluate the messages that choose which comments should be hidden. This halts the reliance on artificial intelligence as the differentiation between supportive messages and unhelpful ones are more clear with the presence of a moderator. In addition, the software stems across all social media platforms and matches accordingly with the timing of posts as well as real time analytics of all comments coming in with every new post. 

The main question underlying this software is why there is a demand for it and that is to understand the power of comments on the sporting community such as the players, teams or coaches. Many teams are victims of a slew of online attacks whether it be during a game loss or from rival supporters. This not only harbours a negative space within the online communities but could pose threats to the security to all the actors involved in these spaces. Safety within these communities online are a priority as it reflects that of the safety in real life during actual matches and how they interact socially. Technology such as Respondology acts as a protection against harmful comments that could affect the brand’s character.  

If these comments were to go unnoticed and left unmoderated, it could lead to a negative stance on the brand’s identity. Especially, in regards to comments that are racist, homophobic or sexist; these are simply not situations brands would want to be associated with. Furthermore, they would not want to be connected with ignoring these spiteful messaging as well. From a moral standpoint, Respondology is doing its part to protect the perception of a plethora of sporting clubs but also preventing the normalisation of a negative space within the supporters of these teams that can only occur if derogatory comments are stopped immediately as they appear. It does not even allow for these hateful activities to prosper. 

In terms of business, many brands could lose sponsorship opportunities due to connections with abusive online spaces. As a result, the brand’s revenue will be at stake. Additionally, when comments go unchecked, it perpetuates spam comments which could lead to illegal streaming and ticket scamming sites. These are all issues that are simply flushing money down the drain for most brands. However, by taking precautionary measures, with the likes of Respondology lessens the likelihood of burning money through unlikely means such as online comments. 

Evidently, the use of Respondology covers all the bases that comes with having an online presence; the barrage of hate and toxicity. With this slowly being stopped by this newfound technology, many businesses will continue to thrive without unnecessary harm to their business identity or their company revenue as a whole.

Check out Respondology's features in full here: https://respondology.com/

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Football's journey from a local pastime to a global multibillion-dollar industry was gradual, but the sport's digital transformation has been rapid.

Football's success has been built on its continual evolution and adoption of new innovations.

With fundamental changes in consumption habits and fan behaviour, this blueprint will be essential for clubs, leagues, and federations to stay relevant and increase revenues in the new era of football.

Together with SportsPro, IMG have explored content creation and digital innovation in today's football landscape, which will be vital for unlocking new engagement opportunities and diverse revenue streams.

For over 150 years, football's unparalleled ability to entertain and inspire fans globally has driven its transformation into a commercial powerhouse.

The European football market alone is valued at $47 billion, driven by record revenues from matchday and commercial sources, resulting in a seven percent growth in the 2021/22 season.

Combined revenues from clubs in the top football leagues of England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, known as the 'big five', now exceed $27.64 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Emerging technologies and younger supporters are reshaping the notion of fandom, with fan bases becoming more global rather than local or national, and increasingly inclusive of female fans interested in women’s football.

Creating content and innovating digitally will be essential for discovering fresh ways to engage fans and generate varied streams of revenue, ensuring football continues its upward trajectory spanning over a century.

If football aims to resemble more of a media enterprise, then it must adhere to a fundamental principle of the broader industry: data reigns supreme.

Entities that can gather, analyse, and utilise fan data will have a competitive edge in attracting supporters and growing their revenue streams. This translates to a more refined content, improved decision-making, and targeted marketing campaigns.

While there are suggestions that Gen Z lacks interest in football and that significant changes are needed to broaden its appeal, research indicates that 72 percent of Gen Z watch football at least once a week, compared to 59 percent of millennials and 49 percent of Gen X.

Additionally, 26 percent of Gen Z enthusiasts intend to follow football with even greater interest in the next five years.

Gen Z remains interested in engaging with football, although they show less inclination towards attending matches in person or watching entire matches on television.

They are more adept with technology, show greater interest in video games, and are more inclined to follow individual players rather than a single club or even support multiple clubs compared to previous generations.

At its core, streaming is essentially a digital way to distribute linear content. Many primary broadcasters now provide catch-up or OTT platforms, while rights holders are using streaming services to boost licensing fees whether through heightened competition or by creating specialized packages and to reach a younger audience less likely to watch traditional television.

Platforms like FIFA+ can be used as leverage in negotiations with current broadcast partners. Other platforms, such as Tottenham Hotspur’s SPURSPLAY and Real Madrid’s RM Play, have become standalone products, offering a variety of content that complements or even replaces third-party broadcast deals.

AI will revolutionise nearly every facet of football, from recruitment and performance analysis to targeted marketing campaigns and content creation.

Intelligent technologies will become so ingrained in football that most consumers won't even realise they are engaging with AI. Fans will benefit from higher quality, more relevant content, including automated video highlights, AI-powered cameras, and algorithmic content discovery as the most prevalent.

LaLiga is already employing GenAI to automatically translate player interviews into multiple languages using the player's own voice, enhancing engagement with global audiences.

Similarly, Major League Soccer (MLS) is generating live spoken-word commentary for matches where deploying a real commentator isn't feasible. GenAI could enable hyper-personalized content for individual users, allowing them to create highlight packages of a specific team or player through a simple text prompt.

Along with the technology landscape, the digital era of fandom has arrived and is here to stay, with the future already unfolding.

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Dribl, an Australian-based leading provider of football technology solutions, has announced its partnership with CONIFA, the Confederation of Independent Football Associations.

This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward for Dribl, helping CONIFA streamline operations for their global football competitions, promoting efficiency and providing a dynamic platform for community and fan engagement.

Supporting a true grassroots and international partnership

CONIFA, renowned for its dedication to the joy of playing international football, supports representatives of football teams from nations, de-facto nations, regions, minority peoples, and sports isolated territories. This global acting non-profit organisation is committed to enhancing global relations and fostering international understanding through football.

Enhancing the Football Experience for All Dribl’s cutting-edge technology will enable CONIFA to streamline the administration of its global competitions, ensuring efficient and effective management. The partnership will introduce a centralised system that simplifies operations, facilitates better fan engagement through the Dribl app, and ultimately enhances the overall football experience for all participants and fans.

A platform for everyone, everywhere

Dribl CEO Rob Georgievski spoke to the grassroots impact:

"By partnering with CONIFA, we are taking a forward step in truly supporting grassroots football," he said via media release.

"Our technology is designed to be accessible to everyone, everywhere, ensuring that the joy of football can be shared by all. We are excited to help CONIFA grow and reach more people, providing a seamless and engaging experience for football communities worldwide."

Commitment to high ethical standards and global unity

CONIFA stands out as the world's leading organisation for people, nations, and sportingly isolated regions with a commitment to high ethical standards and global unity. This partnership with Dribl aligns perfectly with CONIFA’s mission to contribute to the enhancement of global relations and international understanding through the universal language of football.

Introducing the CONIFA Match Centre

In collaboration with Dribl, CONIFA have introduced their very own Match Centre for the upcoming CONIFA Women World Football Cup 2024 Tournament. This innovative feature will provide fans and participants with real-time updates, comprehensive data, and an engaging user experience, further enriching the connection between the sport and its global audience.

For more information, please visit:

Dribl: https://dribl.com/
CONIFA: https://www.conifa.org/en/

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In 2021, Sevilla FC, a premier team from Andalusia, Spain, faced an overwhelming amount of paperwork.

With a top-tier scouting team of 20 to 25 scouts, each player could generate up to 40 scout reports, necessitating 200 to 300 hours of review. Altogether, Sevilla FC had to manage over 200,000 reports on potential players, a task that demanded an enormous amount of time.

Earlier in the year, Sevilla’s fortunes started to change for the better in terms of time management.

They had introduced a collaboration with the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) having confirmed Scout Advisor, a cutting-edge AI tool that will equip the club’s scouting team with extensive data for identifying and evaluating potential player signings.

Developed using IBM's watsonx, which is an AI and data platform for businesses, the club introduced the Scout Advisor concept to integrate it into its existing suite of in-house data-generative tools.

IBM is a top provider of global hybrid cloud, AI solutions, and consulting services. They assist clients in over 175 countries in leveraging data insights, optimising business processes, reducing costs, and gaining a competitive advantage in their industries.

Over 4,000 government and corporate entities in vital sectors like financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare depend on IBM's hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift for rapid, efficient, and secure digital transformations.

IBM's ground-breaking advancements in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions, and consulting provides their clients with open and flexible options.

Sevilla FC's data department collaborated with the IBM Client Engineering Team to develop Scout Advisor, utilising watsonx's natural language processing (NLP) and foundation models to search and analyse extensive information in the club's databases for evaluating potential recruits. This encompasses quantitative data such as height, weight, speed, goals scored, and minutes played, as well as qualitative data such as a player’s attitude and alignment with the team philosophy from over 200,000 scouting reports.

During the period in 2021, Sevilla FC could quickly access and utilise quantitative player data within seconds, but retrieving qualitative information from the database was significantly slower in contrast.

The solution's natural language processing capabilities allow the club to utilise multiple large language models (LLMs) to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of player identification. By interpreting scouts' descriptions of key player characteristics, Scout Advisor creates a curated lists of candidates matching the desired traits and summarises comprehensive reports for each player. Additionally, Scout Advisor connects each player to the existing database to provide detailed quantitative performance data.

Player recruitment has traditionally relied on a mix of subjective human observation and data analysis. However, these methods are limited by the time they require and the few factors they consider. IBM's Scout Advisor now gives the club a competitive edge by merging these existing indicators with generative AI, bridging the gap between data-driven scouting and hard to measure human behaviours.

This advancement will enhance Sevilla’s talent identification and support the decision-making processes.

The club’s scouting team is well-known for its data-driven approach to recruiting emerging talent. Furthermore, the club is at the forefront of developing innovative methods to use detailed information, allowing for a more holistic evaluation of every player they scout.

Watsonx processes this data and presents it in understandable terms, identifying potential signings using key qualitative indicators and expert scouting insights.

The club intends to use Scout Advisor during the summer in the recruiting season and expects to see results by September, with feedback having been positive so far.

With the time saved, scouts can now focus on human-centric tasks such as engaging with recruits, observing games, and making data-supported decisions.

One thing is certain is that the ability to make better-informed decisions about who to play, when to play them, and why has fundamentally transformed the recruitment process at Sevilla FC. This refined approach has not only enhanced the club's ability to identify and secure top talent but has also provided a strategic edge in their overall team management and performance planning.

Recently, Melbourne Knights FC had agreed a new collaboration with leading football management software company, ProTrainUp. It would benefit local clubs, in terms of time management, to follow suit and by doing this they can focus their attention elsewhere.

Investing in AI is not a walk in the park as it does require large amount of funds, however A-League sides in both the men’s and women’s should also be taking an approach into implementing technology whether it’s for player scouting or the way footballers train, for a task that demands a vast amount of time that could easily be executed by AI as it eases the workload on team management and club operations.

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ReSpo.Vision is an AI & Computer Vision-based optical tracking system which automatically collects player skeletal tracking data from any single camera recording of a sporting event.

Using immersive 3D visuals, the system allows the audience to unlock performance data and insights that weren't before available like tactical or scouting insights with AR/VR.

Respo.Vision - a Polish-based start-up founded in early 2020 started by four founders - Pawel Osterreicher, Mateusz Szala, Wojciech Rosiński, and Łukasz Grad.

These four individuals have had combined experiences in data science, consulting and machine learning engineering, and believe AI can unlock a wealth of possibilities by capturing previously uncapturable player tracking data.

The company's mission is to bring a new depth of analytics to sports using Computer Vision.

The product merges the immersive AR/VR world with the deep analytical environment that sports is, and the company specifically specialises in football.

They leverage bleeding-edge deep learning algorithms to automatically generate 3D skeletal tracking data from sporting events and analyse it with an unprecedented level of insight.

The technology system detects 3D positions of the ball and 50+ body parts of every player, in every video frame, using a single-camera video input (which can be any recording, present or past, a TV broadcast, or a training session recording). Fully automatically, for any game, with accuracy measured in centimetres, and without any wearable sensors or expensive pre-installed cameras.

The company are scaling up their clientele (among them clubs, leagues, federations, media, or sports data companies) and are doing so by offering an unmatched depth of knowledge in a scalable, and cost-effective way.

[caption id="attachment_25021" align="aligncenter" width="800"] ReSpo.Vision Head of Product Mateusz Dłużniewski presenting at the GSIC powered by Microsoft Summit APAC in Singapore.[/caption]

The technology is split into two different products: Data & Stats as well as Visuals which allow the audience a chance to choose how they want to experience the game.

This is how each work:

Data and Stats

- 2D & 3D Tracking data: Uses coordinates of players’ body parts & the ball generated from any match recording, even TV broadcasts with the option to view the game in either 2D or 3D.

- Physical data: Tracks accurate physical measurements, including speed, acceleration, body orientation, or motion types

- Game reports: 3D tracking-derived analytical summary of any game. Revealing unique metrics, including player zones of control, Team Compactness, Open Passing Lanes, Pressing performance, and more – all to power better tactical decisions

Visuals

3D Digital twin of football: Recreate any real-life game in a realistic, VR-ready 3D environment with unlimited camera perspectives and full immersion.

Matchday in the metaverse: Open the gates to the virtual stadium and use VR technology to teleport fans directly into the heart of the action for an incredible immersive experience.

Data visualisations & AR Add-Ons: Enhance the fan experience or aid the player coaching process with visualized stats & insights (e.g. tactical view, pitch control overlay).

[caption id="attachment_25040" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] ReSpo.Vision Body Keypoints Detection.[/caption]

How this technology can be used in Australia

Specifically in Australia, technology like this is severely underutilised at the top level and will be part of football in the near future, where Australia can get ahead of other Asian countries in this field.

An example to look upon is Melbourne Knights and their recent partnership with advanced data tracking system ProTrainUp who aren't currently connected to any other club in the country.

More clubs in the country should follow in these footsteps and invest in immersive and analytical systems that give them a deeper understanding of the game, where the top European clubs first flagged as a big importance on improving on the pitch.

The founders in a recent interview with SportsPro also suggested that the system can be used by broadcast media companies to give their audience an enhanced viewing experience by allowing them to view advanced metrics, a feature that Australian football also lacks on its A-League broadcasts.

The company is truly revolutionising the AI sports realm with fans, clubs and the media being the target audience for this technology to shape the way we view and analyse football.

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Melbourne Knights Football Club has confirmed a new partnership with leading football management software company, ProTrainUp.

This collaboration is set to enhance communication and streamline operations with the Club, marking a significant step forward in the commitment to excellence and growth.

Founded in 2013, ProTrainUp is a club management system fuelled by data driven technology, created by and for the football community. ProTrainUp combines quantitative and qualitative data to enhance club operations for both staff and participants, enabling the Club to:

1. Enhance communication between club staff and players with built-in public and private messaging services.
2. Simplify the organization and delivery of training sessions using plans and sessions provided by top international federations and clubs, available only through ProTrainUp.
3. Maintain an up-to-date calendar of training sessions and matches.
4. Gather data and statistics on players to create detailed reports on individual player development and overall team progress.

ProTrainUp is a system used by clubs around the world including European clubs such as Dinamo Zagreb FC and FC Porto, highlighting its importance in modern football.

The main objective of this partnership is to enhance communication among club staff, players, and parents.

ProTrainUp’s advanced software will deliver a centralised platform for efficient and effective communication, guaranteeing that all members of the Melbourne Knights community stay well-informed and engaged.

The system is accessible both online and through the app, allowing players and parents to enable push notifications so they never miss important Club updates.

The partnership will play a huge role in upskilling the juniors program in 2025, a huge focus that President Simon Pincic spoke about in length in his exclusive interview with Soccerscene.

The Knights will leverage ProTrainUp’s comprehensive tools for training management, performance tracking, and development planning to 'provide the juniors with the best possible environment to grow and succeed' as per their statement.

This will help more than just the junior players however with ProTrainUp, the coaches will benefit from this technology with seamless tracking of player progress, and enhanced training experiences, all contributing to the overall development of the junior players.

The club spoke about the future of their management through this advanced technology system.

"We look forward to a successful partnership and are excited about the positive impact it will have on our Club and community. Together with ProTrainUp, we are committed to building a stronger, more connected, and highly effective football club," Knights said in a club statement.

This is an excellent and innovative partnership by the Knights that sees them advance forward in the development of technology.

The Knights have been vocal about the importance of junior development and have historically been one of Australia's most successful clubs at creating stars from their system, with ProTrainUp only advancing that cause.

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Football Video Support (VS) has been introduced by FIFA as another means of technology to review decisions.

VS is a video review system by FIFA that is the answer to member associations that cannot implement the video-assistant-referee (VAR) system because their human and financial resources are limited and very few cameras are in use in their competitions.

There are cameras set up around the pitch, either human-operated or automated that are used by referees to make decisions after a coach reviews the play.

FIFA are currently trialling VS with a goal to explore new and existing technologies to positively impact the game, especially in order to help referees to make correct decisions, while ensuring that their potential use is cost-effective, beneficial and practical across the global football community.

How does VS work?

1. Football Video Support (VS) is a video review system introduced by FIFA as a solution for member associations that are unable to implement the video assistant referee (VAR) system.
   a. Goal/no goal
   b. Penalty/no penalty
   c. Direct red cards (not second cautions)
   d. Mistaken identity (when the referee cautions or sends off the wrong player of the offending team)
2. VS can be utilized only after the referee has made a decision (including waving play on as a decision) and a team has subsequently requested a review.
3. Only the team’s head coach (or, in their absence, the senior team official in the technical area) can request a review. This request must be made immediately after the incident by twirling their finger in the air and handing a review request card to the fourth official. However, each player has the right to ask their head coach to initiate a review request.
4. The fourth official will inform the referee of the review request and, if play has stopped (and not restarted) since the incident, the referee will go to the referee review area (RRA) to review the replay footage. If play has continued since the incident, the referee will stop play when the ball is in a neutral zone and go to the RRA to review the replay footage.
5. During the review, the referee will be assisted by a review operator, who will show replay footage on the monitor (e.g. different camera angles, split screen, different replay speeds, etc.).
6. The original decision taken by the referee will not be changed unless the video replay footage shows clear evidence that the decision was a clear and obvious error or that there has been a serious missed incident. As the VS system involves a small number of cameras, the replay footage will often be inconclusive and thus the original decision may not be changed.
7. The review request must be made immediately to:

- conform to the Laws of the Game requirement that a decision cannot be changed once play has restarted after a stoppage; and

- prevent unnecessary delays to the game while the team’s head coach (or, in their absence, the senior team official present in the technical area) considers whether to make a review request.

8. After a goal is scored, the fourth official will review the footage on the monitor and inform the referee if a clear and obvious offense was committed by the attacking team. Unless the decision involves factual matters, the referee will then review the incident and make the final decision.

During the trial phase, it is expected that each team will be able to make two requests per match. If the review by the referee results in the original decision being changed, the team retains (does not lose) that review request.

The technology is not going to replace VAR, it is just going to be used as a cheaper alternative in leagues and associations that lack the current VAR technology to ensure fairness and accuracy across all levels of professional football.

FIFA state that there is no specific timeline, and no decision has been made on when the implementation will take place.

They are currently at the trial stage and after assessing the outcome of the trial will talk with the relevant stakeholders in order to decide on the next steps, including potential additional trials by FIFA and other governing bodies.

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The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed the implementation of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system across its revamped three-tier club structure as well as the inaugural AFC Women’s Champions League for the 2024/25 season.

The newly introduced AFC Champions League Elite, the top club competition in the confederation that comprises 24 of Asia's best teams, will implement VAR from the league stage, which kicks off this September.

Meanwhile, VAR support for match officials in the AFC Champions League Two will be available from the Knockout Stage onwards. The competition, comprising 32 teams, is set to commence in September.

For the AFC Challenge League, which will feature 20 teams, the technology will come into play in the all-important Final in May 2025.

Lastly, the inaugural edition of the landmark AFC Women’s Champions League, which kicks off in October, will see the VAR system made available in the Semi-finals and Final, underscoring the Confederation’s commitment to supporting and developing women’s football on the Continent.

The AFC prepared for this VAR implementation for the 2024/25 season when they conducted the AFC VAR Course in Malaysia in 2023.

This Course consisted of 25 VAR officials across Asia who were taught the in's and outs of the technology, as part of an effort to keep the Confederation’s match officials up to date with the latest technological advancements in refereeing.

Another workshop will be taking place in the coming months to ensure the VAR Information Officer's (VIO) of each AFC country are also kept up to date with the technology.

Earlier this year, the AFC implemented the VAR system across all matches at the AFC Asian Cup for the first time, while also becoming the first Confederation to introduce the Semi-Automated Offside Technology (SAOT) system at the Continental Men’s national team level.

It is clear that the AFC have ambitions to remain a model Confederation that is always open for innovation as well as ensuring the success of its match officials on the biggest stages in world football.

As Asian club football prepares to enter a new era, it is vital that this VAR technology is introduced at all stadiums involved in the three competitions to ensure fairness.

After the Mariners success in the AFC Cup, it will be interesting to see how this new three-tier club structure allows Australian teams to compete further in these tournaments.

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Air-Eze are a British organisation in whom through the basic formula of air compression, have enabled for participants across different codes of sports to find longevity within their much beloved sports essentials.

Market leaders within the field of compressed air operated cleaning stations, Air-Eze have established over 1,300 sites within their 25 year tenure of operations.

Providing avid sports participants and construction workers with a self-serve cleaning service.

Through air-compression, pop-up devices are placed across a plethora of varying places, all designated in cleaning debris off of a person’s shoes.

Footballers are pedantic when it comes to their beloved football boots, no matter the skill level or demographic.

Participants place a hefty amount of time and consideration towards which pair of boots best symbolises their playing style.

Through the modernisation of football, boots are no longer just essentials. With the immense popularity surrounding features such as specific variations, colours and patterns.

Footballers associate boots as a visual representation of who they are as a person, almost an extension of their personality.

Pitches across the globe are prone to exhibit large masses of mud, especially throughout the wet seasons.

Therefore, players across all skill-levels of the sport are not immune to experiencing a large build-up of mud, upon their expensive football boots they recently purchased.

A part of the sport in which is appreciated by many, Football is for the brave-hearted, and it is associated with mud. Although synthetic surfaces have become a normality, the fabric that football was made upon still remains a common theme upon the sport.

The fabric of football consists of grit, determination and passion. With a playing surface not interfering with the competitive nature of its participants. Who throughout the course of history have tracked into the clubrooms, leaving a muddy trail behind them.

A 2-year warranty is issued upon the purchase of their self-proclaimed low maintenance machines.

The longevity of the system is maintained through frequent services, ensuring that the equipment is working at its optimal level.

[caption id="attachment_24647" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Air-Eze unit[/caption]

Upon optimal use of the Air-Eze Bootboy system, football clubs are able to exercise enhanced hygiene throughout fully-furbished indoor facilities.

The Air-Eze Bootboy system is effortless. Through the sheer power instilled within the system and alternating air-nozzles, players, club-staff and club officials are all able to clean their boots without any real difficulty.

Gone are the days of arriving home from a football related activity, whether it was training or match-day where participants would arrive home and smack their boots upon a hard-surface, in order to get rid of the mud all compounded within the boot studs.

Furthermore, the company is recognised its products low running costs and minimal maintenance. Although its design is robust, it somewhat operates better.

As a result, the machines are resistant to corrosion guaranteeing a durable, long-term, sustainable product effective within saving costs.

Renowned football clubs across the globe have been swift in utilising the services of Air-Eze.

European giants Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, Celtic, Tottenham and Rangers are all upon an ever growing list of football clubs who have installed Air-Eze’s Bootboy system upon their clubrooms.

Featuring mostly within the player tunnels, the air-compression system does not require much space. It also acts as a nice feature upon the player ramp, allowing players to enter clubrooms still in their football attire, without the possibility of leaving a trail in their wake.

Air-Eze despite having built up quite the portfolio across the UK and various parts of Europe are still yet to feature down under.

It would be a nice touch for clubs across the local leagues to focus on the cleanliness of club rooms, by the prevention of players entering with muddy boots.

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Football fan behaviour can on occasion be detrimental in the progression of the sport across the globe.

Although a celebrated part of the game - when loyalty, passion and individual personalities are animated - the potential for something unsavoury to occur, becomes imminent.

Globally, a key element of the sport is its tribalistic nature. Football fans possess the tendencies of becoming relentless within their support for a club.

The comparison of two large contingents of football fans coming together, with their respective teams battling it out for supremacy, is reminiscent of a crusade.

In acknowledgement of fan behaviours, governing bodies must exercise adequate security throughout stadiums in order to prevent the slim although present opportunity for disorderly behaviour occurring.

Dallmeier

Dallmeier are a German based technology company in whom have become specialists in comprehensive security services.

Derived from the use of video technology the German entity have built quite the portfolio upon completion of football related security within the company’s tenure.

The company boast eight varying security solutions for stadiums. All crafted with the intention of making stadiums safer through the minimization of fan misconduct.

Since 1984, Dallmeier have been experts upon the field of video technology. Optimal within their services, the company provides security logistically and industrially.

Furthermore, their services extend to airports casinos cities, and finally stadiums.

Security Hardware Variety - Panomera Camera 

The use of Dallmeier’s most innovative and decorated product has primarily featured within football stadium security.

Panomera cameras are the combination of several megapixel cameras all forged into one efficient device.

Allowing users to capture larger areas and long distances of space. Providing what a series of cameras would reduce in one efficient device.

The Panomera Camera maintains the highest quality of imagery, allowing in the improved identification of potential perpetrators.

Stadium Security Measures - Dispatch Management 

Dispatch management and allows for the identification and background search of personnel who identify as a threat to the public, to be adequately dealt with by security or police officials.

Providing a real time understanding of the stadiums environment.

Capturing incident data in the form of videos, photos and witness statements all for those who commit an antisocial act at a football match.

Putting emphasis upon the punishment of perpetrators, with the video capturing evidence that can be guided into the hands of law enforcement.

Stadium Security Measures - Entrance Area 

The entrance area aspect of Dallmeiers stadium security allows for the identification of fans looking to cause issues prior to their entry into the stadium.

As a result of optimal security installation upon sport stadiums around the globe, the participation of football upon all aspects can flourish.

While the tribalism and passion all synonymous with football fans, it is an area of the sport that can have a ripple effect upon it causing disruptions to matches and detriment of fan involvement.

Additionally, anti-social fan misconduct can have a negative connotation upon a sport well-respected.

What impact it can have in Australia?

As a result, events can transpire culminating in what should be a celebrated aspect of the sport, becoming its kryptonite.

It was only 14 months ago where in our backyard, an unsavoury event transpired between rival crowds, leaving a stain upon football in Australia.

At the time, it had somewhat derailed a hype train football in Australia was experiencing. Given the Socceroo's had successfully qualified for the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup.

The aftermath of such a monumental achievement was tarnished due to fan misconduct.

Company’s in the same class as Dallmeier, allow for the sport to be participated while an emphasis can be put upon the players taking to the pitch.

It is imperative that fan safety is held at the highest responsibility. The raw element of fan behaviour should not be eradicated, but has all the potential to be mitigated, exposing the raw fan element in a positive light with the improved security and emphasis on safety.

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Orreco.AI is a new AI technology tool that aims to help advance athlete training, athlete performance and management of injuries in sport.

This innovation in data collecting technology has one goal - to give athletes the power to control and better their performance using a range of data points never seen before in the industry.

Led by CEO and Sports Scientist Dr Brian Moore, Orreco has had a plan since 2010 to innovate sport by leveraging technology to better athletes' performance and management.

Since its inception, Orreco has lead research findings and released new, updated technologies to fine tune the accuracy of the data they show to athletes.

They released the app '@thlete', which is a data and content platform for athletes that synthesises a range of data to help athletes better their sleep, wellness, preparation and recovery.

Orreco's Recovery Lab is the precursor to Orreco.AI, with it being a similar concept that integrates data and metrics to improve wellbeing.

Orreco also released a pioneering free app called FitrWoman which is a leader in supporting women athletes during their menstrual cycle by providing education, training and nutritional support.

Orreco is fast tracking the Orreco.AI technology that is the first of its kind. The technology gives teams player pages with basic statistics such as distance covered, top speed and performance stats but also is providing coaches with an in-depth analysis on their fitness by using blood biomarkers to accurately pick up the data.

Minute-by-minute post-game injury scores and injury signals that give coaches a head start on protecting and managing their players.

Orreco.AI aims to also improve efficiency for athlete performance coaches through voice and text prompt interactions.

Orreco have harnessed three pivotal waves of AI - advancements in computing, cloud storage, and generative AI.

Their objective is to provide differentiated, actionable data that can help athletes transform their game.

Orreco’s AI suite is at the forefront, complete high performance platform converting vast amounts of data into actionable insights. Here’s how:

AI Charting:

AI charting allows direct interaction with your data through intuitive voice commands. For example, you might ask, “Please show me Peter Brand’s inflammation levels as a line graph.” Instantly, crucial insights are displayed, enabling faster, more informed decisions to optimise athlete performance.

AI Action Models:

Our AI Action Models can provide comprehensive overviews of any dataset with simple voice commands. For instance, “Show me athletes of concern and why,”  immediate evidence based answers, securely delivered as your data never leaves the platform. This functionality ensures proactive management of player health and performance.

TRAIN:

The TRAIN module predicts training loads based on historical GPS data, creating sessions tailored to specific criteria — sets, reps, pitch size, and duration. Adjustments can be made in real-time, offering dynamic feedback. This efficiency not only saves time but also enhances training strategies.

AI Injury Risk Modelling:

Motion Signal delivers post-game injury risk scores by identifying deviations from normal movement patterns. This advanced warning system helps prevent injuries such as hamstring strains. As in-game data becomes available, real-time injury risk scoring will further enhance preventive measures.

Orreco's mission with this particular technology is to empower teams and players to reach its peak performance, maintain health and extend careers.

There has never been a higher demand for athletes than in the current sports landscape. More games being played, more minutes on the pitch, more travel, and an increase in high intensity training has led to the increase of a risk of injury, shortened careers and poorer performances on gameday.

This AI technology innovation highlights a shift in how professional sporting clubs and athletes are viewing the current situation and willing to do what they can to mitigate the potential soft-tissue injuries that arise.

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Lumosa are a British based technology company that provide comprehensive LED lighting to a vast variety of sporting codes on a global scale.

Specialising in sport stadium, field and ground lighting, the company prides itself upon providing a high quality series of products which are sustainable and durable.

Versatile within their line of business, they have built quite the portfolio across a vast number of sporting codes.

They have covered but not limited to golf, tennis, field hockey and football with the latter a primary focus of the business.

The objective of the company is to provide optimal visibility to sporting entities at an affordable level without the compromise of quality or the effectiveness of the products on offer.

Fundamentally the company are strict upon their sustainability mission. The products on offer, notwithstanding their size, use the lowest amount of CO2 emissions in comparison to rival lighting companies, giving Lumosa a competitive advantage within their niche field.

Footballers across all levels of the sport, from grassroots to seniors are training primarily under the floodlights of the night sky.

Although not a factor controllable by footballers themselves, they are at the forefront of how lighting can impact their performance.

Exceptional football lighting upon a pitch has been proven to give players an advantage. Movement is identified better by participants, given colours have become stronger all courtesy of high quality lights.

It allows them to make accurate passes, execute team movements, execute tactics, and anticipate movements of the opposition.

Furthermore, it enables coaches to execute training sessions thoroughly. The training of tactics, formations and team plays can all be adequately taught to players under the flood lights.

In addition, the improved visibility assists players in avoiding collisions with each other or with the ball in dispute throughout a match situation, the risk of injuries or collisions are ultimately lowered.

Also clear visibility can allow players to make better decisions regarding shooting, passing, tackling, defending positioning and attacking awareness, all leading to a more strategic, effective and decisive gameplay.

Lumosa’s optimal LED lighting products are designed upon the latest innovation within lighting. With LED lighting, it becomes the main choice in comparison to halogen and florescent choices due to its energy saving nature.

30% of energy consumption is saved within Lumosa’s products, understanding the game as a youth player and having had relatives on club boards, it is evident that lighting comes at a price.

A price in which junior clubs may not be able to afford.

There have been many instances where the lights at training go out, unreliable, yet expensive in operation costs due to their power consumption.

With adequate and weatherproof lighting, clubs are able to schedule matches and training sessions during night time sessions, this can lead to the expansion and development of their playing cohort.

Lumosa’s lighting products may be the way forward for the effective approach towards sustainable lighting for grassroots football clubs.

Although a subtle change, the possibilities of what more adequate lighting can provide to a club are endless.

The football industry in particular can benefit immensely from the implementation of Lumosa lighting around stadium and training ground facilities.

Improved spectator experience, combined with the improvement of player performance and youth development are all factors in which are hard to ignore.

With technology becoming more advanced on a broader scale, the details are now being refined in order to achieve the highest capacity possible out of every facet involved throughout the sport.

Although lighting may not be at the forefront of priorities required for the improvement of a football club's development and operations, it is still a factor for which must be considered upon.

Looking ahead, Australian football clubs and stadiums who are in need of a sustainable yet durable lighting solution should look to Lumosa to implement the necessary changes provided by the lighting firm.

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Football Queensland (FQ) have confirmed a partnership with SocialProtect to fight against online abuse and misconduct upon the football community within the state.

Attacks on players, referees and administrators are prominent across multiple football communities in which remains a negative connotation of such an amazing sport.

SocialProtect is a mobile application in which enables the real-time monitoring of online abuse without account users compromising account control.

Automated containment of abuse occurs when the technology interprets foul and derogatory language, preventing its account users from being aware of what might have been said by social media users.

The online protection device automatically deletes comments upon social media posts or pages in that contain hate speech, racial slurs, scams, and any form of content deemed harmful.

FQ CEO Robert Cavallucci disclosed his admiration surrounding the partnership

“Football Queensland is proud to partner with companies like SocialProtect, underscoring a shared commitment to prioritising the mental and physical well-being of participants by addressing and removing any instances of online abuse across social media platforms,” he said in a statement.

Having understood the effect the application has had upon the social media account operation of both professional sport teams within Australia and around the world, FQ where motivated to implement the technology upon their community.

“FQ’s zero-tolerance policy against poor behaviour, enhancing security to safeguard clubs, participants, and the public, thereby reducing mental impact and lowering self-harm risk.”

It was disclosed that clubs participating in the NPL Queensland Women’s and Men’s competitions are eligible to receive the service as its included within their license.

This enables the clubs to integrate SocialProtect into their club’s digital security for the foreseeable future.

Affiliated clubs across all parts of Queensland are able to access the service at varying stages across the season, with a monthly subscription fee incurred.

It is an unfortunate part of any sport across the globe. Anonymous online trolls have the platform to remain unidentified, and cause havoc across various social platforms.

The implementation of SocialProtect may be the fundamental tool necessary in the protection of athletes.

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Playermaker is the world’s only foot-worn data tracking device that allows coaches to gather real-time data from each individual player using the devices sensor strapped to their boot.

Playermaker is a sports technology company that was founded in 2017 by Guy Aharon & Yuval Odem who formerly served in the Israeli Defensive Forces.

Playermaker offers sports technology products that are designed to provide valuable data and insights to players, coaches, and teams.

It enables users of all skill levels to measure to seamlessly access a range of data points that can pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of their game.

Teams in particular can gain a deeper insight into the development of their players using the in-depth statistics that the Playermaker provides.

The company has partnered with hundreds of elite clubs and federations worldwide including a partnership with current Premier League champions Manchester City.

Playermaker is FIFA approved and is the first athlete performance monitoring system to successfully complete the challenge set by the FIFA Innovation Program, gaining the EPTS FIFA Quality certificate.

About CityPlay

Using their partnership with Manchester City, Playermaker also released 'CityPlay' that combines Playermaker technology with Manchester City's Player development methodology.

The app is designed to help your child develop and involves many interesting features that can keep parents or coaches on top of their performances like never before.

Measuring over 25 metrics, CityPlay provides the most relevant data for creating training programs, benchmarking performance and tracking progress. With the metrics that matter you can set goals, measure progress, analyse performance and improve easier and faster.

There is also an option to watch personalised in-app videos from Manchester City coaches and experts to help accelerate your child's progress.

How it works:

6-Axis Motion Smart Sensors

Built with a gyroscope and accelerometer that samples movement events at 1000 times/sec, which allows the measurement of every micro-movement, including impact with the ground, with the ball and the rotation of each foot.

Strong but seamless straps

Two waterproof sensors (L+R) located inside the durable silicone straps, suitable for all playing conditions. The straps comes in 2 sizes (M / L), to fit kids adults, women and men alike.

Training Highlights

Tracks 15+ football specific metrics including touches, total distance, kicking power, sprint distance and intense turns.

This helps users examine their training performance using the different metrics to help them improve for matchday.

Match Skill Scores with others worldwide

There are three Match Score Factors: Age, Gender and Position.

Scores range from 40-99 for each skill. A score of 99 indicates your performance placed in the top 5% of your segment, while a score of 40 indicates the same, but for the bottom 5%.

This allows players to compare their statistics and scores in each metric with others in the same category to suggest where the player needs the most improvement.

Proprietary Rating System

An objective skills rating system, that covers both physical and technical abilities, obtained during
real world scenarios of match play.

1. Objective, AI-based measurements of both physical and technical skills
2. During in-game situations, without interference
3. Developed using global age and gender benchmarks

Other Features

• Requires no infrastructure, Wi-Fi or GPS signal to collect data
• Bluetooth operated Device to sync the data
• Track your progress over time using trends of past stats that have been recorded

Sky is the limit for Playermaker's device, and the technology can certainly be adapted in other sports, however the company is currently focusing on maintaining its excellent growth in football.

As the company has expanded in the football industry, it is providing the world stage with incredible innovation that can help clubs of all levels with talent identification, analysis and tactical insights.

The company is yet to partner with an A-League club and there is a huge opportunity for a club in Australia to enhance their data tracking and analysis systems.

As the league starts to prioritise talent identification and player development over the influx of failed marquees, using this technology is a perfect way to improve in that aspect and delve deeper to potentially produce more talented Australian footballers.

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CTN are a Finnish-based technology company dedicated to providing cutting-edge devices that assist in optimal recovery.

The importance of recovery across the lives of athletes, professional, semi-professional and amateur sport participants is at the forefront of the Finnish outfits’ ideologies.

The link between completing a recovery routine and long-term health is often overlooked. As the specialists in (cold) cryotherapy devices, CRT are looking to bridge the gap between the two aspects; Making recovery more convenient and effective for people across the globe.

Developments in the advancement of their current technology are compounded by the creation of new devices. The sole mission of the company is to ultimately promote recovery efficiency while improving the well-being of its users, all from the comfort of their own home through a vast number of alternating recovery devices.

The devices have many uses. Not only used as a form of pain relief, but can be used as a form of prevention for injuries, reduction of stress, prevention of illness, and to slow the human ageing process.

As the official partner of the Finnish Olympic Committee, the company is active in multiple professional sports and physical activity body’s around the globe - none more involved than the global phenomenon of football.

[caption id="attachment_24072" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] CTN's headquarters.[/caption]

Footballers of today's current generation are under enormous physical endurance pressures. In 2020, a determined and willing 18-year-old by the name of Pedri, within his maiden season with Barcelona, had played 75 games of football for both the Catalonian based outfit, and the Spanish national team. It was an effort in which was mirrored by Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, who amassed 74 games.

With the installation of new tournaments and competitions on both a domestic and international scale, the athletic performance of a footballer has never been more crucial.

The workload involved in playing at the highest level without recovery could simply not occur.

The embodiment of this is showcased through current Chelsea FC defender and Brazilian legend Thiago Silva, who partnered with CTR in 2023.

The 39-year-old centre back is well and truly in the twilight stages of his decorated playing career. Working in conjunction with CTR as a promoter of the technology company, he is an avid user of several high-quality devices all from the comfort of his own home.

For magnetic muscle stimulation, the X-Tone device is applied to muscles in need of repair. This occurs after they’ve been used to their highest capacity.

Muscle strength and endurance is achieved through the X-TONE’s non-invasive yet effective magnetic muscle stimulation.

Development of the muscle is fast tracked through immense stimulation, stimulating the targeted muscle area with over 20,000 contractions over a 30 minute session.

There are a vast variety of benefits for athletes found in exposing the body to artic like cold temperatures in small bursts.

The reduction of inflammation, pain relief and improvement of circulation, alongside sustaining mental sharpness are just some of the many benefits found in cryotherapy.

Cryotherapy in the form of ice baths have been a focal point of athletic recovery for generations.

Through this new exciting innovation, gone are the days where athletes have to hobble to the shops to purchase ice bags to use in the shallow bath hub at home, as their 'ice bath'.

With an understated acknowledgment of the current peak physical condition required for footballers to fulfil their playing obligations, it has reached high capacity. Devices crafted by a company dedicated to an athlete's recovery are frankly commodities which must be utilised by those who wish to participate at their optimal athletic level.

CTN devices are evidently fundamental for a players recovery and longevity. It was no surprise to find that consummate professional Thiago Silva uses the Finnish company’s products.

Nearing 40 yet being physically able to play on a weekly basis in arguably the best league in the world, is a feat not achieved without having proven variables surrounding the player.

Going forward, are we going to see more players within the Thiago Silva plethora by extending their careers through the use of advanced recovery technology?

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The very foundation of scouting has changed forever. 

Eyeball is an Artificial intelligence (AI) powered product designed to assist footballing entities in scouting the potential football athletes from various countries around the world.

With over 100,000 players within the technologies database all comprised of youth players, football clubs across the globe are raising their eyebrows as to what this brilliant technology can provide.

The system acts as a football scout. Remotely and in the convenience of a smartphone device, the search and evaluation of performance capacity of the players within its database can be compared to football’s finest players. The service prides itself on optimising academy recruitment, without a club worrying about the financial difficulties involved in travel or acquisition of scouting personnel.

The contemporary scouting platform has an established and researched insight database, all gathered from the youth academies of Europe’s leading football giants.

European markets including the footballing nations of Spain, England, Germany, Holland, Belgium, and Croatia are also joined by the African markets of Ghana, Mali, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Guinea, Senegal and Sierra Leone. These are the markets in which Eyeball operate within, acting as the ever growing customer base of their elite scouting technology.

Youth scouting is strenuous. Professional clubs who are struggling within their respective leagues due to being less financially opportunistic, are already on the back-foot. With its locality and lack of scouting network, the fundamental exercise in terms of growing a club and its talent pool, becomes surplus. The purpose of Eyeball and its technology is to make the scouting process simple yet effective, as it has essentially modernised the process, bridging the gap between potential players and professional clubs.

Determined to enhance its science, searchable player data is a primary focus of Eyeball in which they seek to further improve. This is through the analysation of video data from talented players throughout the globe, combatted with the collection of a prospects data.

The data collected is imperative. Driven by 13 statistical parameters, it includes shots on target, successful dribbles, incisive passes and passes in the final third - just to name a few.

The parameters collected can be searched by the club officials using the app, perhaps on the hunt for a player in whom possess specific qualities dependent on what the club requires on the pitch.

Summaries of key stats are compiled by AI based upon data collected from partner clubs that have detailed profiles upon talent within the database. The AI technology allows partnered clubs to put these prospects into AI generated match-simulations, allowing for the assessment of a players performance all through the use of Eyeball’s data breakdown technology.

The player app feature of Eyeball can be a considered a polarizing tool in which football participants can utilise in order to garner a tangible understanding of their ability. The player app allows players to access performance data from within the platform while also showcasing to the scouts using the technology, the ability in which the player possesses.

Games can be watched back by players, while Eyeball analyses the games and a breakdown of the performance. This allows players and coaches to make the necessary changes to a players training routine, showcasing the areas in which are in need of improvement.

It basically allows a player to sell themselves to scouts. Professional clubs are examining the profiles and the players are able to customize their profile, showcasing their greatest qualities in-match highlights. Matches can be watched back and analysed, as they are stored within Eyeball’s database.

Individuals can hunt for specific match moments, with a play-by-play game events feature dissecting every move a player makes throughout matches documented. Eyeball’s analysts watch each match closely, providing a breakdown of performance statistics. Players distribution performance, as well as their offensive and defensive performances are outlined.

Eyeball possesses the ambition of wanting to become a pioneer in bridging the gap between talented youth prodigies and becoming the next generational top tier of talent across the globe. All through the inclusive access of insight and data performance surveyed and interpreted through its system.

Over 100 professional clubs are using the Eyeball technology, with the company making major waves in regards to the foundation in which scouting is exercised. Perhaps it would be in the interest of Australia professional clubs to also utilise this ground-breaking technology for their benefit.  

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TacticAI is an artificial intelligence (AI) system that can provide experts with tactical insights, particularly on corner kicks, through predictive and generative AI.

Importantly, it is a full AI system that could give coaches instant, extensive, and accurate tactical insights – that are also practical on the field.

As part of Google's partnership with Liverpool FC, their DeepMind team have worked on this innovate project for a couple of years in an attempt to revolutionise the way elite football clubs are analysing corner kicks in the sport.

TacticAI demonstrates the potential of assistive AI techniques to revolutionize sports for players, coaches, and fans. Sports like football are also a dynamic domain for developing AI, as they feature real-world, multi-agent interactions, with multimodal data.

TacticAI is built to address three core questions:

1. For a given corner kick tactical setup, what will happen? e.g., who is most likely to receive the ball, and will there be a shot attempt?
2. Once a setup has been played, can we understand what happened? e.g., have similar tactics worked well in the past?
3. How can we adjust the tactics to make a particular outcome happen? e.g., how should the defending players be repositioned to decrease the probability of shot attempts?

TacticAI's main use is to assist current coaches by finding similar corner kicks and testing different tactics to influence a decision.

Instead of analysts reviewing the footage of previous games over and over again to discover a specific team's corner routine, the technology computes the numerical representations of players to easily look up past routines.

The AI technology's generative model allows human coaches to redesign corner kick tactics to optimise probabilities of certain outcomes, such as reducing the probability of a shot attempt for a defensive setup.

TacticAI provides tactical recommendations which adjust positions of all the players on a particular team. From these proposed adjustments, coaches can identify important patterns, as well as key players for a tactic’s success or failure, more quickly.

In Google's quantitative analysis, it showed that TacticAI was accurate at predicting corner kick receivers and shot situations, and that player repositioning was similar to how real plays unfolded.

Human football experts from Liverpool FC found that the tech's suggestions cannot be distinguished from real corners and were favoured over their original situations 90% of the time. The data is demonstrating its efficiency and usefulness at the top level.

Google are trying to find new ways to utilise AI in football because the sport is a very dynamic and challenging game to analyse. The company is using this technology to try and blend human expertise (Football coaches and analysts) with the AI's analysis suggestions to help make coaching at the very top level more efficient.

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Next11 is a data analytics company who dedicates research towards improving an athlete's capacity by analysing every aspect of either a player, manager or coaches performance.

Specialising in football, the company also covers ice hockey as its main sport. At the heart of the system, players can be tracked through a non-invasive tracking system equipped on their calf, that follows a player’s physical performance - specifically tracking their movement, action response time and reactions while also grading a players cardiovascular and muscle condition.

Furthermore, the device also tracks a players psychological tendencies, analysing their decision making ability and tactical performance. Both physical and psychological data are stored upon a smart device in which can be analysed by the player or more commonly at a professional level, can have sport scientists and coaching staff interpret the data to gain a further insight on their athletes.

Next11 are versatile in the technology they provide given that they also program equipment in which can assist clubs in tracking their players.

The business pride themselves upon their work and their passion for the world’s most renowned sport is prominent. Proclaiming their products are the “Future of Football”, is a claim in that has earnt its merit given the current interest they have accumulated across the football world.

Slowly making the occupation of sports data and analytics redundant, it’s alarming how accurate the product can pinpoint every slight movement a player can make throughout the duration of a training session or match.

Recently the technology company made a head-turning partnership with French giants Paris Saint German (PSG) striking an agreement. 

The academy team will use Next11 tracking to identify the next rising stars of the game.

"We chose to use Next11 because the tool allows us to be more precise on the quantification of the workload in the development of the player," Cedric Bouchet, Coordinateur Technique, Paris Saint-Germain F. C. Academy, said via media release.

"Coaches can also use it in matches to get a clear idea of the player’s intensity level compared to his reference value.

"Finally, the calculation of the team load allows us to really see where we are in relation to our reference match and therefore to adapt our interventions."

Acquiring the technology has become available for any sporting club across the globe. Despite the hefty price tag that comes with it, the product is worth it as a data and analytics representative. All the information in which is gathered through the device placed upon a player is highlighted on an app upon a smart phone or device in which can be allows for improvement across a series of aspects to an individual and team's performance.

In relation to what was discussed by Cedric Bouchet, the product allows for training programs to be altered and influenced by the readings of the technology, therefore allowing clubs and players to strive for a unanimous goal of achieving the highest possible performance within training and more importantly, matchday.

The improvement of technology and the use of it amongst some of the highest regarded football outfits across the globe is another spoke on the wheel in the evolvement of the sport. Mirroring modern day society, the more advanced technology becomes culminates in the improvement of efficiency and effectiveness of athletes within the sport, attributing to the improvement of quality amongst it.

The sense of importance that this device and technology can possess amongst football feels as if it will transpire in it becoming a fundamental necessity in that clubs will outline as a requirement in order to get the most out of their players through gaining such a rich understanding of their physical behaviours.

Intrigue surrounds the partnership made with PSG given their pedigree within European football. Have they jumped the gun ahead of their respective European and French counterparts?

For full information on Next11, you can find it here.

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The Premier League confirmed a four-year partnership with virtual reality software developer Rezzil to create a new VR video game.

The Premier League and Rezzil will work together on the development of a VR game, which is expected to be launched later this year. The game will place users on the pitch and in the boots of their favourite Premier League players, offering fans a unique opportunity to recreate iconic Premier League goals and moments from within the perspective of virtual reality.

This will be done by using Rezzil's software and integrating it directly with Premier League match data allowing clubs to adapt the software to re-create match scenarios and replay them through a VR headset. It also gives the Premier League a way to give broadcasters and the gaming market a chance to get closer to the action on the pitch in a fun and groundbreaking way.

Rezzil is a Manchester-based VR software firm that specialise in the production of sports gaming software for athlete training and game analysis within virtual reality.

Rezzil applications are already being used by many top professional football clubs in both the premier League and around Europe.

Will Brass, the Premier League’s Chief Commercial Officer explained the importance of this innovating partnership for all parties.

“We are excited about the ongoing development of VR technology within football. Rezzil are highly respected in the field and have developed an excellent reputation with training products that are being used by many Premier League clubs alongside leading sports teams and leagues around the world," he said in a statement.

“The applications for this technology are expanding quickly and this partnership will see the Premier League working with Rezzil on products that can help redefine player, fan and viewer experiences.”

Andy Etches, Co-Founder of Rezzil shared his excitement about partnering with the biggest domestic league in world football

"We are thrilled to embark on this new partnership with the Premier League. By combining our expertise in VR technology with the unparalleled excitement of Premier League football, we are looking forward to supporting the Premier League’s fan and player engagement ambitions. Working hand in hand together, we’re poised to bring VR technology to football in ways never seen before,” he said in a statement.

Premier League will also take an equity stake in Rezzil following this announcement of the partnership. This investment will place Rezzil and the Premier League at the forefront of exciting new developments in VR and XR (Extended Reality) technology.

This is a fantastic partnership that gives fans and broadcasters a closer perspective of the action on the pitch as well as give more clubs a chance to use important technology for team strategy and performance purposes.

It also highlights that there is potential for more exciting and innovative technology in the works that would be of the benefit of all parties and change the way we view and interact with the sport forever.

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The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) have confirmed a multi-year sponsorship with Amazon, making them the Exclusive Retail Sponsor of the NWSL and an extension of its current media deal.

This is an expansion of the previously announced multi-year rights deal that cemented Prime Video as the exclusive home for 27 NWSL matches each season at amazon.com/nwsl.

As part of the sponsorship, it will name Amazon as an official NWSL licensee. NWSL fans can now shop Amazon Fan Shop for hundreds of officially licensed NWSL products from Merch on Demand, Amazon’s print-on-demand service. Selection includes t-shirts, hoodies, tank tops, and more, spanning every NWSL team, across men’s, women’s, and youth styles and sizes.

This Amazon collaboration will also boost the media team at the NWSL with the league migrating match content from previous seasons using Amazon Web Services (AWS). This cloud-based media archive will enable NWSL to easily transfer historical footage and surface highlights, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage to enhance fan engagement by building a more personalized connection between fans, the league, and the players they love.

Amazon Prime is also now the presenting partner for the NWSL’s Best XI Awards which recognises the best players by position on a monthly cadence throughout the season. For Prime, this represents an opportunity to bring fans closer to the players they love and joins them in celebrating the excellence of the athletes selected for this honour.

NWSL Chief Marketing & Commercial Officer Julie Haddon discussed the importance of expanding their existing deal with Amazon.

“We could not be more excited to continue to integrate Amazon more deeply into the NWSL family as they become our exclusive retail sponsor,” Haddon mentioned in a press release.

“Amazon’s global reach and customer-centric approach pairs perfectly with the NWSL’s fan-forward ethos. This partnership will not only amplify the NWSL’s fandom and growth but will also offer our fans an easy and accessible way to support their favourite teams and athletes.”

The ultimate goal is to increase the profile of the NWSL and serving customers’ growing interest in merchandise, content, and technical innovation.

The expansion is a fantastic move by the NWSL who are bringing the expertise of several Amazon businesses together in service to the league and its fans as they enter a period of incredible attendance and participation growth.

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Sydney FC has confirmed a ground-breaking partnership with AI-powered sales platform Bigtincan to improve fan engagement, plus player and coach development using the technology's capabilities.

As a result of this partnership, Bigtincan will deliver a branded platform to enhance the performance of individuals and teams throughout the Sydney FC organisation.

Using AI, the company will leverage things like a player app for personalized skill development and coaching messages translated into multiple languages. Bigtincan will also help the club organise documents and information in a unified place for seamless access.

Bigtincan will utilise virtual showrooms powered by AI to showcase Sydney FC to its membership and fanbase, enabling interactive, self-guided tours and Digital Sales Rooms (DSRs).

The AI sales platform mission revolves around reshaping the future buying experience, leveraging AI and Augmented Reality to tailor experiences to the brand they partner with, and offering personalized engagements that guide customers toward confident decisions.

Bigtincan's portfolio is wide and incredible with expertise that the biggest brand sand sporting organisations have adopted. These include Major League Baseball, Boston Red Sox, Sacramento Kings, and the Los Angeles Chargers, and other leading global leaders like Nike, Clorox, and Citibank.

The shared values of Sydney FC and Bigtincan converge on delivering engaging, empowering training experiences that enhance performance both on and off the field.

Mark Aubrey, Sydney FC CEO, discussed the club's future vision with Bigtincan.

“Success stems from nurturing and training those entrusted with performance. Our coaches empower our players, much like Bigtincan does for major brands and global sports franchises with their AI-powered technology,” Aubrey mentioned in a press release.

“Our shared values in training and coaching create a natural alignment, and I am eager to see where this partnership takes us.”

David Keane, Co-Founder and CEO of Bigtincan, expressed enthusiasm about the digital partnership with Sydney FC.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Sydney FC, leveraging our innovative AI-driven technology to support the team on and off the pitch while expanding the reach of our sales enablement automation platform,” he added in a statement.

This partnership is a major step forward in innovation for Sydney FC who are committed to providing specialised coaching and training, mirroring the club’s investment in the development of its staff and players both on and off the pitch.

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Best popularised by Football Manager, football fans around the world are becoming increasingly aware of data-driven software and analysis. In truth, these worlds have been colliding for some time as the football industry continues to be at the forefront of innovation.

Leading the way in this area is Dutch-based company SciSports, which has risen to prominence in Europe for its diverse range of data-driven software services.

The company delivers key football operations services, including recruitment, performance and opponent analysis, career advice, and data delivery. These services are utilised by national teams, clubs, players and player agencies, and league associations.

Its leading partnerships are with the Dutch Eredivisie and Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB), as well as Premier League club Crystal Palace, and A-League side Adelaide United.

In addition, its applications are used by a host of British and European football clubs, winning many plaudits from performance analysts and football recruitment departments.

This article will take you on a deep-dive into the range of applications SciSports offers, and how it is changing the face of football operations.

Recruitment

Arguably its most prized feature, SciSports provides its clients the very best data-driven player recruitment software money can buy.

Its application connects club scouts and player agencies to over 270,000 players in the men’s and women’s game, 3,700 clubs, and 250 league divisions.

Part of the software allows clubs to create their own profile that details their style of play. This helps clubs save valuable time in their recruitment process because players who suit the club’s profile will be prioritised within its search engine.

Player profiles built within the application include features such as the SciSkill Index - an in-house player performance metric - performance statistics, and player roles.

WIthin its Pro recruitment application, player profiles include AI powered player valuations, and a GBE points calculator that determines the eligibility of a player for work permit or visa applications.

SciSports offers a monthly subscription package for its two recruitment application offerings (Essential and Pro), benefitting clubs at all levels of the professional game.  

Altogether, SciSports’ in-depth, data-driven technology is making football recruitment simpler and more efficient, helping football clubs steer clear of the “flop” branding that permeates through modern football.

Career Advice

Connected to its recruitment and performance analysis services, SciSports can assist players and player agencies greatly.

Their career advice service enables agencies’ to create player-profiles for their clients, driven by SciSports existing performance analysis software.

The profile contains in-depth information ranging from physical attributes and tactical suitability, to career history and player ambitions.

Again, the application is offered in two monthly subscription packages - Lite and Pro - which have differing levels of access for players and agents.

Whilst the services helps a player market themselves, it also better informs them about where their next move should be, which SciSports evidences through its high-profile player partnerships.

Case Study - Memphis Depay

SciSports' highest-profile success story is current Atletico Madrid and Netherlands forward, Memphis Depay.

After struggling at Manchester United, Depay and his agent sought the help of SciSports to assist in revitalising his career.

His player profile and subsequent analysis advised him to reject moves to Spain, Italy, and England, in favour of a move to French Ligue 1 club, Olympique Lyon, who were seen as best-suited to his playing style.

Depay revitalised his career, going on to score 63 goals in 139 appearances for OL, before representing his country at the 2021 European Championships and 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup.

Fellow Dutch forward Wout Weghorst is known to have succeeded using SciSports career advice and performance analysis applications, whilst several Dutch Eredivisie players have been known to further their careers.

Performance Analysis

Having the ability to analyse player and team performance day-by-day is imperative in elite football. SciSports aims to assist elite football clubs in offering extensive performance analysis applications.

Its performance analysis software is data provider agnostic, meaning it can be connected to existing data sources such as player-tracking data (GPS systems), event data, and video footage.

The result is a one-stop-shop software for performance analysts and coaches to use with their players and teams.

The package produces greater staff reporting, video analysis, and data visualisations, all of which are vital to being a successful football operation.

Given the diverse nature of football tactics and analysis, pricing for its service is available for request only.

Opponent Analysis

Similar to its performance analysis services, SciSports also provides opponent analysis for football clubs.

In today’s football climate, getting the edge over a rival takes place not just on the pitch, but in offices over weeks and months. One small piece of analysis could be the difference between failure and success.

SciSports again uses incredible detail to provide clubs with analysis that evolves simple stats into some of the most niche around. For instance, attacking and defensive style trends, or the types of set-piece variations an opponent runs, their success rate, and times in games that they run them.

Data-driven opponent analysis is already a prominent feature in professional football, but SciSports existing services in recruitment and performance analysis situates them as an industry leader.

Data Delivery

Last, but not least in its catalogue of services, SciSports can integrate its software with existing in-house technology, making the transition easy for football clubs and player agencies to align with the company.

Like its performance analysis service, pricing for its in-house data-delivery solutions are available for request only.

SciSports are expanding its operation to leagues in North and Central America, and whether it penetrates the Asian or Australian market or not, its services are a valuable template for improving football operations.

With some of the world’s leading universities based in Australia, there is a clear capacity for the creation of data-driven software that can drive the professionalisation and expansion of the Australian game.

For full information on SciSports, you can find it here.

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Warner Bros, ESPN, and FOX have all united in their partnership to launch a sports streaming platform that will offer 15 various networks, covering all of America’s major sport leagues - amongst the likes of the NBA, NFL, MLB, only to mention a few.

The streaming service will also broadcast matches of the 2026 Men’s FIFA World Cup, with it indisputably being the most important sporting event on a global scale to
feature on the platform. In addition, it is also set to welcome NWSL, MLS, LALIGA, Bundesliga, UEFA and CONCACAF competitions.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first World Cup to be played across three nations including Canada, Mexico, and most fundamentally, the United States of America.

The United States is arguably the most polarising country across the globe. Whether it’s within their pop-culture, rich history, or “ American way” of doing things - they have seemed to yet again trailblaze another industry.

While the power play has been acknowledged, on paper it seems to be a reasonable idea to merge multiple platforms together to become the platform. However, question marks
surrounding the quality of the broadcast begin to prosper.

Given the high volume of variety in which the platform possesses, will the World Cup receive the dedicated, articulative broadcast it deserves? The basis for the questioning arrives at the irrefutable fact that United States viewers tend to showcase more appreciation for national sports leagues, such as the NBA or NFL. Given their enormous respective markets, it is of assumption that the three-way partnership is opting to dedicate their primary focus to their cash-cows.

Time will ultimately tell, however it is also safe to presume that given the United States are primary hosts of the greatest sporting event, in which arrives every four seasons, it is not
irrational to believe that they will dedicate themselves adequately to provide tremendous coverage to the prestigious event.

Given there’s no personnel change due to the potential of cutting costs across the board to accommodate all multiple sporting juggernauts, Fox will keep their greatest pundits
available for the decorated competition.

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The German Football League (DFL) renewed its partnership with sports game manufacturer EA Sports, in a deal labelled by officials to be of 'high strategic importance'.

It guarantees that clubs from Germany’s top two tiers will feature in EA Sports' football video-game, EA Sports FC, until 2027.

In addition, EA Sports will continue to sponsor the ‘Player of the Month’ and ‘Player of the Season’ awards for the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2.

A relationship that stems back to 1998, the DFL and EA Sports share an important history built on innovation within the gaming world.

In 2012, the DFL pioneered the world’s first eFootball competition, Virtual Bundesliga (VBL), helped greatly by its relationship with EA Sports. The VBL remains a strong part of the DFL’s vision, resulting in the professionalisation of the competition.

An arm of video-game publishing organisation Electronic Arts, EA Sports is in the midst of a new era in football gaming, after failing to agree a deal with its long-time naming rights partner, FIFA.

However, the game’s universal popularity since its inception in 1993 gives it one of the highest return customer rates in video gaming history.

EA Sports’ first iteration of the game since removing the FIFA branding - EA Sports FC 24 - is the highest-selling video game in the UK and Europe, and ranks 10th in the United States (from Statista).

This global demand is exactly what the DFL is eager to capitalise on, according to Bundesliga International Chief Marketing Officer Peter Naubert.

“The contract renewal confirms the positive development of our global licensing and sponsorship partnerships and underscores the global appeal of the Bundesliga brand as well as the significant growth that the DFL generates for clubs,” Naubert stated via press release.

The gaming industry remains a lucrative space for football organisations to increase its marketability and generate greater revenue. Late last year, the Argentina Football Association partnered with a gaming software company to increase its marketing presence in Europe.

DFL joint-CEO Marc Lenz explained that the extension of its deal with EA Sports is crucial to its marketing strategy.

“Our core aim is to reach young fans and find new ways to spark their interest in the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2,” Lenz told the DFL website.

“EA SPORTS FC is a successful part of this strategy, because the licensing partnership and the Virtual Bundesliga increase the visibility of our leagues and clubs.”

Lenz’s partner Steffen Merkel spoke about the relationship between the DFL and EA Sports.

“EA SPORTS FC deepens the connection between millions of fans and their favourite players and clubs from the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2, which are an important part of the video game series,” Merkel added via media release.

“The partnership has existed since 1998 and underscores the shared conviction behind the cooperation, which is characterised by constant and successful evolution.”

Meanwhile, the inclusion of Germany’s top two professional leagues in EA Sports FC will assist EA Sports’ future plans for football gaming.

“Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2 are key to building an innovative and evolving football platform for fans, and we’re thrilled that the DFL shares our vision for the future of football,” EA Sports President, Cam Weber, added via the DFL website.

By continuing its relationship with EA Sports, the DFL demonstrates its commitment to a sustainable and profitable future for its competitions.

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Bitget and Lionel Messi are teaming up once again to deliver a new film on one of the world's biggest stars.

Having first formed the partnership in October 2022, Bitget is the only crypto exchange partner for the 2022 World Cup winner and best player of the tournament. The company themselves were established in 2018 and is now the world's leader in cryptocurrency exchange.

Off the back of Argentina's major international success, the film will give us a deeper understanding of who Lionel Messi is, and the determination it takes to be regarded as the greatest footballer of all time.

The 2024 film, titled #MakeItCount, is a campaign of inspiring everyone to push beyond their limits and grab every opportunity presented.

Through Messi's own personal story and Bitget's core values, the film promotes perseverance against all odds, any progress building upon itself, and a positive mindset no matter what.

Bitget Managing Director Gracy Chen is excited to make a difference through the film:

"Both the story of Messi and the growth of Bitget serve as a reminder that greatness is not achieved overnight, but through persistent determination to make it count," she said via media release.

"As we continue the #MakeItCount Campaign in 2024, we remain committed to inspiring individuals, whether they are in the football and crypto sector or beyond, to pursue greatness as no dream is too big to achieve.

"Together with Messi, we are delighted to bring crypto to a bigger global stage, and drive the mass adoption of crypto and blockchain technology."

Bitget has also outlined plans to roll out post the Messi film, hosting on-ground Football Challenge events in emerging markets around the world.

Bitget is also investing in Blockchain4Youth, a recognised charity field where local communities can get involved in football and crypto adoption, paving the way for younger generations to understand Web3, blockchain and digital assets better.

To achieve its goal of inspiring Web3 adoption, Bitget is investing $10 million in the Blockchain4Youth project over the next five years.

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British sports streaming service DAZN revealed its decision to cancel the subscription fee for women's football content throughout the remaining 2023-24 season in the UK, in order to help promote the women’s game.

Its New Deal for Women's Football campaign has been introduced to help boost investment and make the women's game financially sustainable.

The New Deal campaign is calling for clubs, sponsors, media and broadcasters and rights holders to get involved and come together to build a major global commercial sport.

The original strategy that was outlined in the agreement was that in the initial two years of the broadcast deal (21/22 & 22/23 seasons), where all 61 matches were available for free viewing.

Then in the 2023/24 season it moved to a subscription-based model, locking out fans from being able to view the games live on DAZN or its YouTube channel for free.

This announcement affects all Women's Champions League matches, as well as the Women’s leagues in Spain, Germany, France, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, which will now be accessible without cost.

This means the remaining 29 Champions League matches, 48 Liga F matches, 48 in Frauen Bundesliga, 15 Saudi Women's league and 50 in the Italian Serie A Femminile will be broadcast for free in the UK.

DAZN released a statement last Thursday that mentioned the reason why the streaming company decided to make the games free.

“This will drive audience growth and provide a new global home for women’s football, offering greater access to games, content and the international women’s football community,” confirming that the decision is part of its new campaign to “ensure a commercially robust future for women’s football.”

DAZN's co-CEO of women's sport, Hannah Brown explained what this move means for the future of the sport.

"The women's game has significant commercial potential," she said in a statement.

"Without it [the New Deal campaign] a golden opportunity to accelerate growth is lost."

The numbers released by DAZN since the start of their partnership agreement with the Women's CL also suggest that there is a magnification on women's football.

In the competition's inaugural broadcast year for the 2021/22 final they got 3.6 million in global viewership and a cumulative viewership of 64 million. This went up to 5.1 million for the 22/23 final and an 87 million cumulative global viewership total.

The decision to make women's football accessible is the right one at the expense of money earned through subscriptions. The best way to grow the sport is to maintain a healthy audience and to not restrict women's football from the masses in its time of extreme growth.

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It’s likely that football’s TV audiences never actively notice the stairwells of a stadium whilst watching a match. Yet, one company is working to change this by providing football organisations with the opportunity to illuminate its stairwells whilst stimulating economic growth.

StairMedia is a company originating from Spain that installs LED technology for stadium stairwells. Each step is installed with horizontal hardware that, once connected together, delivers an unmissable vertical display.

We currently see leagues and clubs offer televisual space for its sponsors via advertising hoardings, playing shirts and pitch markings. However, StairMedia offers sporting organisations the opportunity to increase its commercial income by maximising the space occupied by banal stadium stairwells.

It is the latest collaboration between technology, marketing and sport sectors, further illustrating the desire of sports organisations to unlock its marketing potential. It also helps to deliver a greater experience for sponsors, who reap the benefits of a highly engaging advertisement that captivates TV audiences.

The company began its sporting journey in basketball, permanently installing its product in the home arena of Spanish basketball club, Saski Baskonia. Since then, it has established high-profile partnerships with some of football’s most recognisable stadiums and organisations.

Most recognisable is Wembley Stadium, where its TV facing stairwells display the logo of the England football team’s official mobile network partner, EE, during their games. The English FA has also utilised StairMedia for its FA Cup semi-finals and finals, helping the competition’s sponsors capture the attention of viewers nationally and internationally.

Later, English powerhouse Manchester City capitalised on StairMedia’s prominence by permanently installing its technology on the stairwells of the Etihad Stadium. This deal has been replicated by Liga MX clubs Chivas de Guadalajara and Santos Laguna.

At the centre of StairMedia’s product is the use of LED technology to illuminate each step on a stadium stairwell. The use of LED in football is not new, with elite stadiums and local grounds turning towards the option for powering floodlights, scoreboards, big screens and advertising hoardings. Therefore, using the technology delivered by StairMedia ticks an important environmental sustainability box for football organisations.

Another plus is the high levels of energy efficiency and durability that comes with LED products, making them a more financially viable option. This ultimately contributes to the return on investment football organisations hope to achieve when installing StairMedia technology.

Behind this is a software system that seamlessly integrates with existing stadium technology, making installation easy for stadium staff and contributes to a highly engaging image for television audiences.

The NRL pioneered StairMedia’s innovative product for its finals series, evidencing its potential in the Australian sports stadia market. This represents a massive opportunity for Football Australia, and the Australian Professional Leagues (APL), to entice current and future sponsors through StairMedia’s game-changing product.

At a time where Australian football is coordinating a major expansion effort, engaging with innovative companies like StairMedia would help unlock new marketing potential. This would play a major role in helping the aforementioned organisations reach its key targets and achieve greater financial stability.

Depending on the timeframe and costing structure, Football Australia or the APL could seek to implement the technology incrementally - as done in the United Kingdom - showcasing it at major events such as the A Leagues Grand Finals, Australia Cup Finals, and World Cup qualifying matches.

Capturing every inch of televisual space for sponsorship and marketing is not an easy task, but through technology companies like StairMedia, football organisations can improve their commercial standing in an environmentally sustainable manner.

We expect to see the stairwells of football stadiums continue to come to life, as StairMedia expands its operation across the globe.

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Brisbane Roar is collaborating with leading Australian water bottle developer AQUAME to provide their squads with high-tech water bottles.

AQUAME is a high-tech water bottle offering UVC sanitation, drink reminders, and real-time tracking, all guided by an AI-enhanced app for optimal hydration.

AQUAME's AI-enhanced phone application enables users to see statistics regarding their hydration, with historical data and personalised coaching options to help guide users towards informed daily health decisions.

The device has been used and approved by Socceroos legend Archie Thompson and Melbourne City FC forward Andrew Nabbout, with the sports water bottle company moving into the football corporate world after recent growth.

Brisbane Roar CEO Kaz Patafta mentioned the importance the club puts on maximising player performance.

“We are proud to partner with AQUAME and believe these high-tech water bottles will greatly contribute to player wellbeing on and off the pitch. As a club we strive to see players have the best products at their fingertips to perform their best. We look forward to growing this partnership with AQUAME,” Patafta said via media release.

Founder of AQUAME Steve Aidun Xie spoke on the large market that this partnership with the A-League club provides for technology in sport.

“We are thrilled to partner with Brisbane Roar, a significant milestone in revolutionising the role of data in modern sports. In today’s competitive sporting landscape, the understanding and optimisation of athlete hydration remain underexplored. Our collaboration is set to bridge this gap by leveraging cutting-edge technology to collect vital hydration data,” Xie added.

“This partnership is more than just an alliance; it’s a step towards filling a crucial void in sports tech by integrating effective hydration plans into athletes’ routines. The insights gained from working with a professional club like Brisbane Roar are invaluable. They will be instrumental in refining our new hydration analysis software, designed to empower sporting clubs globally," Xie continued.

"This tool will not only analyse but also illuminate how precise hydration planning can elevate athletes to their peak performance. We are excited to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking development, contributing to enhanced athletic achievements and wellbeing.”

Brisbane Roar have a focus with this partnership to positively impact player performance for both the men's and women's sides through high quality technological equipment, with AQUAME specifically focusing on the players receiving acute hydration.

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FC Barcelona added Latin American home-delivery service Rappi to its existing group of partners, in what is being described as a hugely beneficial moment for fans in the region.

The current two-and-half year deal is a part of FC Barcelona’s continued brand expansion in the Americas, meeting several of its commercial targets as it asserts itself as one of the world’s leading sports brands.

Football is not new territory for home-delivery company Rappi. They actively sponsor several men’s and women’s football clubs across Central and South America, which has helped achieve its current status as one of the leading home-delivery services in the region.

This status as one of Latin America’s leading technology brands is evidenced by its mobile service that connects customers to food and e-commerce products and delivers them to homes within 10 minutes.

FC Barcelona Marketing Area Vice-President, Juli Guiu, highlighted the deal will be a win for Barca fans in Latin America.

“Through this partnership with Rappi, we are boosting our privileged position in this region and helping to improve the fan experience by connecting with them via imaginative, disruptive actions that drive emotions and empathy,” he said in a statement.

Astrid Mirkin, Chief Marketing Officer of Spanish Markets and Head of Brand/Sponsorships at Rappi, elaborated further on Guiu’s comments regarding fan experience.

“With Rappi becoming the exclusive delivery partner of FC Barcelona in Latin America, we will significantly improve the experiences of both the Rappi customer and the FC Barcelona fan at a key consumption moment,” Mirkin added via press release.

“This partnership with FC Barcelona will allow customers to receive additional special offers during games and drive additional orders to our merchants and couriers.”

FC Barcelona will provide Rappi with LED hoardings at the Olympic Stadium and its spiritual home, Camp Nou, when its renovation is completed. Further benefits for the company come in the shape of hospitality packages and brand association with the Barca Legends team.

Inter-continental relationships, particularly between European football clubs and non-European companies, offer substantial economic benefits that can enrich its impact on both football and society.

In addition, fans across the globe not only benefit from exclusive offers in their region, but get a deeper connection to clubs they support from afar.

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Football institutions across Australia are demonstrating its unequivocal support for Australia’s independent regulator for online safety, eSafety.

The program rolls out a series of new resources connected to tackling online abuse in sport.

Recognised as a growing problem across all levels of Australian sport, online abuse can now be tackled head-on by sports associations, clubs and individuals, through consulting resources on eSafety’s website, such as:

• How to deal with online abuse
• How to recognise online abuse
• Eight ways to stay safe online

Importantly, eSafety also provides further specific resources for sports administrators, coaches and officials, athletes and competitors, and sports parents.

Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, believes the importance of these new resources to sport should not be understated.

“Whatever your code, team or position, I strongly encourage you to use these new eSafety resources and encourage your teams, members and supporters to uphold values of respect, fairness and sportsmanship – both on the field and online,” she stated via media release.

The Commissioner for eSafety, Julie Inman Grant, claims that online abuse in sport should receive the same attention and rules as physical abuse does from the sideline.

“This insidious problem is casting a dark shadow over sporting activities that more than 11 million Australians enjoy every week. Targeted online harassment takes a mental and emotional toll on the very people who make sport happen: our coaches, umpires and players,” Inman Grant added via press release.

“On the receiving end of every piece of online vitriol is a person: someone’s child, mum, neighbour, friend, uncle or sister. We cannot let our passion for the game blind us to the damaging impact of harmful online words and actions,” Inman Grant added.

Given the recent increases in popularity of women's football, eSafety’s newest resources come at a crucial time to help safeguard the women’s football community.

As a whole, it will be vital to all stakeholders within the game, to assist in promoting a healthy environment free from online abuse.

Visit eSafety.gov.au/Sport to access the community sport resources and online safety advice.

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The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has entered into its first European-only digital sponsorship with SmartSoft Gaming, in a deal that aims to strengthen the commercial presence of Argentinian football in Europe.

The deal comes as part of a concerted effort by the AFA to capitalise on the recent success of its football teams, particularly its men’s national team, which lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in Qatar last year.

SmartSoft is a Georgian-based gaming software company that provides innovative and high-quality virtual gaming experiences to players all over the world. SmartSoft describes itself as a pioneer of non-traditional casino games, and aims to transform such games into the mainstream for casino operators.

SmartSoft will help market Argentinian football to its European clientele through its various gaming products and software. This is tipped to include perks for SmartSoft customers, such as autographed t-shirts, match tickets and exclusive access to the national teams.

“Through this partnership with the Argentine Football Association and the Argentine National Team, we embark on a journey that unites passion and excellence, where the worlds of business and gaming converge with the magic of Argentine football,” SmartSoft Managing Partner Guga Gotsadze said via press release.

According to the AFA, the partnership signifies its intent to consolidate its global leadership position and connect with new markets across the world. Commercial and Marketing Manager of the AFA, Leandro Petersen, elaborated further on this.

“Over the last few years we have established a strategic vision and objective for our Association, to regain international prestige and global commercial attractiveness. This sponsorship agreement in the European territory with SmartSoft is the confirmation of our strategy,” Petersen added.

“Together with SmartSoft we will develop commercial and marketing actions both digitally and at international industry events, in this way AFA will be at multiple global events alongside the technology leader like SmartSoft."

The unique partnership between the AFA and SmartSoft provides further evidence of the ways in which national football associations are building their commercial image on the international stage.

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Coaches have embraced technology because they are always looking to get a competitive edge. This is especially true when it comes to performance data analysis.

Perform GPS Pro, developed by KINEXON, a renowned leader in sports analytics, is one such game-changing breakthrough. This high-grade player tracking technology stands out for its superior data quality and real-time analytical capabilities, providing coaches with access to over 100 live measures via cloud-based platforms.

Here is how the technology comes into play:

Unprecedented Data Precision and Dynamic Analysis

Perform GPS Pro stands out for its exceptional data quality and live analytic capabilities. This technology not only met but exceeded industry requirements in both localisation and speed parameters during FIFA EPTS testing in Seville in 2022. This remarkable result highlights the system's dependability and accuracy, establishing it as the best option for coaches who require the highest precision in their performance statistics.

Live Access to a Multitude of Metrics

What distinguishes Perform GPS Pro is the availability of over 100 live metrics from any device. The ability to access real-time data via the cloud provides coaches with freedom when it comes to making quick decisions based on the most recent information, whether they are participating in competitive play or training sessions. In addition to saving coaches a great deal of time, this feature guarantees that they may concentrate on their primary goals of improving team performance and attaining the best possible outcomes.

Optimised Operational Efficiency

By providing a completely cloud-based solution, Perform GPS Pro goes beyond simply providing live measurements. Coaches may access data from various devices remotely, removing the limitations of unstable internet connections or set locations. This operational efficiency fosters an environment where performance enhancement is the major priority by enabling coaches to work seamlessly and effectively regardless of their circumstances.

User-Friendly, Lightweight Wearables

The design philosophy of Perform GPS Pro prioritizes simplicity and ease of use. The GPS wearables are compact, lightweight, and pocket-friendly, obviating the need for intricate manual setups. Initiating a session is a hassle-free process, marked by a green light signal indicating successful data transmission. This user-friendly approach ensures that coaches can concentrate on their coaching responsibilities without being encumbered by cumbersome setup procedures.

Effortless Data Sync with AWS Cloud

With Perform GPS Pro, all data is synchronised with the AWS Cloud seamlessly, giving centralised access to all coaching sessions. Multi-user data access is made easier with this cloud-centric strategy, which also streamlines analysis and cooperation. Furthermore, the solution provides unrivalled post-analysis flexibility, allowing coaches to customise dashboards and incorporate additional tools and databases for automated workflow enhancement. This level of flexibility boosts efficiency and simplifies the analysing process.

Unlocking the Potential of Perform GPS Pro
Perform GPS Pro is the result of a joint effort between KINEXON and Fitogether, two prominent participants in the player tracking area. The combination of Fitogether's GPS wearables, which are known for their high data quality, and KINEXON's competence in data processing and analysis results in a cutting-edge player monitoring solution.

When looking for a reliable player-tracking solution, coaches will find that Perform GPS Pro is a game-changing tool. Perform GPS Pro provides coaches with the tools they need to make well-informed decisions based on data.

Its user-friendly interface, extensive live metrics, cloud-based accessibility, and high data quality all work together to optimise team performance and achieve desired results. Coaches can obtain a competitive advantage and boost player performance to unparalleled heights by leveraging the possibilities of Perform GPS Pro.

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Cisco and FIFA partnered up for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup with one goal in mind; to produce a flawless broadcast experience for lovers of football around the world.

An industry leader in connecting and protecting the largest sports and entertainment events in the world, Cisco deployed its networking technology across nine host cities and 10 competition venues.

Cisco’s network also connected the non-competition venues necessary to support the operation of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, including the International Broadcast Center (IBC), which deployed Cisco’s IP Fabric for Media solution to allow for the secure and efficient delivery of 4K content to fans everywhere.

Cisco's core values consist of their commitment to connect more people and things, and power a more inclusive future for all which played a big role in how their network team would be selected.

Cisco used the partnership with FIFA to make history, with an All-Female Cisco Networking Academy team being tasked with the huge role of providing a fantastic broadcast across all 64 games in the tournament.

FIFA's Director of Technology Jose Ignacio Fresco discussed the success of the partnership with Cisco, which enabled the tournament to run smoothly in the network space as record numbers were achieved.

"Technology enabled the biggest sports event in women's sports history to happen through an amazing partnership with Cisco. It was possible through such an amazing network and through such a wonderful, united team we have," Ignacio Fresco said via video.

"Having a strong, reliable, scalable and secure network is the key component to make sure it happened without any single problem. Cisco and FIFA both prepared and planned for this huge wave of support that was expected for such a brilliant tournament.

"I see the success of this year's FIFA Women's World Cup was not just the victory of Spain, it was the victory of women's football. New role models, new stars for the girls and the boys. A tournament that moved the world to a beautiful, inclusive future with the beautiful game."

The delivery of quality and flawless digital and TV content has never been so important in the current sporting landscape, and this success by Cisco played an underrated role in the positive impact the tournament will have on fans around the world.

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Major League Soccer (MLS) side St. Louis City SC is collaborating with Cisco, a worldwide leader in network connection and cybersecurity, bringing one of MLS' most connected and fan-centric venues.

Cisco is the club's Proud Technology Partner, utilising its solutions in networking, security, Wi-Fi, and digital signage to assist spectators have one of the most immersive match day experiences in sports.

Cisco is deploying a cutting-edge, completely integrated network throughout CITYPARK's 31-acre stadium area, which includes the club's stadium, training centre, team offices, and two-story team shop.

CITYPARK uses Wi-Fi 6, Cisco's next generation wireless standard, to provide faster speeds for immersive experiences, greater bandwidth, and improved dependability while putting less strain on a device's battery. CITYPARK is one of just a few MLS stadiums that use Cisco's Wi-Fi 6 technology.

Matt Sebek, St. Louis CITY SC’s Chief Experience Officer, commented on what the technology will allow the club to achieve.

“As a next-generation venue with frictionless markets and mobile-first technologies at the forefront of CITYPARK’s engagement, an innovative fan experience is reliant on a robust and secure connectivity,” he stated via video.

“Every piece of data flows through Cisco’s converged technology, allowing us to streamline IT operations and provide heightened experiences through elevated video distribution, point-of-sale devices, digital signage, real-time app engagement and so much more.”

Cisco’s IPTV technology, a dynamic, end-to-end signage solution that combines high-definition video delivery with state-of-the art digital signage, will be implemented at CITYPARK. The 4K deployment will power screens across the stadium district, all entirely customizable and centrally managed via one point of control.

CITY SC and Cisco will work as part of the relationship to engage the local community and give meaningful, hands-on experiences to experience the power of technology first-hand.

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The A-Leagues and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) are continuing their collaboration with GoBubble Community to stop social media abuse towards Australia and New Zealand’s professional men’s and women’s footballers, through to at least 2027.

First established in April 2022, the use of GoBubble's artificial intelligence is key to identifying and blocking abusive, derogatory, harmful or offensive content.

GoBubble has implemented an automated solution that picks up sentiment and is tailored to the needs of all organisations in real-time, for example if an ongoing issue presents itself.

The GoBubble partnership is one of the first in its kind when monitoring an entire sporting league. Since the A-League’s adoption, the English Premier League and German Bundesliga and other sports rights holders globally now use technology successfully.

Since April 2022, GoBubble's technology has protected A-Leagues players and clubs’ social media accounts, with more than 13,000 abusive comments blocked.

The A-Leagues, PFA and GoBubble (through the new GoBubble Foundation launching in 2024) will be running community outreach projects to provide access to the cutting-edge technology for those who play the role in protecting young people in their digital lives.

A-Leagues Commissioner Nick Garcia reiterated that abuse in any form is not accepted:

”Our footballers and clubs provide great entertainment to their many fans across Australia and New Zealand, both on the field as well as through social media content.

“Just like we work to ensure our stadiums are safe for our players and fans, we are also, through GoBubble Community, focused on making social media a safe space for them.

“Online abuse is absolutely not acceptable in football or any walk of life, so we are thrilled to extend our vital partnership with GoBubble Community.”

PFA Co-Chief Executive Beau Busch praised the efforts of GoBubble so far:

“Our collective ambition is to make the A-Leagues the safest competition in world football for players and fans, and that extends to ensuring everyone’s experience online is the best it can possibly be.

“GoBubble has proven to be the most effective way for our players to add a layer of protection online, so that they can continue to engage with fans and grow our football community.”

GoBubble Founder Henry Platten commended the A-Leagues and PFA approach to abuse:

"The A-Leagues’ innovative approach in providing our sentiment artificial intelligence (AI) for all member clubs has positively impacted the digital lives of millions.

“Football is the beautiful game, and by working in partnership with the A-Leagues and PFA, our patent-pending technology is helping everyone enjoy it without the risk of suffering hate or abuse online.

“We care about respectful communication at scale and are proud, together with the A-Leagues and PFA, to deliver another world first in 2024 by providing access to our AI through the GoBubble Foundation to education and charitable organisations working with schools in Australia."

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant shared the importance of sustaining this technology:

“It’s great to see this successful partnership being extended to ensure players and fans alike can continue to enjoy the sport they love without being subjected to harmful content.

“Online abuse is an insidious problem that affects all sporting codes from elite to community level, so it’s important that initiatives like this continue to receive support.

“While we might be disappointed with a particular call or play, that doesn’t mean it’s acceptable to unleash a torrent of online abuse. Smart use of safety technologies is an important tool in every football club’s arsenal.

“eSafety has developed specialist resources with sporting organisations and integrity units to help deal with the issue. You can find these resources and report abuse at eSafety.gov.au/sport.”

The research so far:

The issue of abusive behaviour on social media was examined closely by the Australian eSafety Commissioner in their Online Hate Speech report which indicated “around 1 In 7 (14%) adults aged 18–65 are estimated to have been the target of online hate speech.”

The Report also reflected on the negative impact of hateful social media content, finding that “58% (of people experiencing hate speech) report a negative impact from their experience, typically mental or emotional stress, relationship problems or reputational damage.”

Separately, the recent FIFA World Cup 2022 held in Qatar was also examined through the FIFA/FIFPRO Social Media Protection Service Report: Qatar 2022 Analysis. It reported that “targeted individual racism was high volume with more than 300 players being targeted.”

The report indicated 286,895 abusive, discriminatory and threatening comments were detected targeting World Cup participant accounts with sexism, homophobia and racism among the most detected abusive messages.

As proud signatories of eSafety’s Commitment to Online Safety in Sport, A-Leagues and PFA see this extended partnership as a further step in helping to keep all Australians safe online, and a key prevention strategy for athletes and staff who are targets of online abuse.

Find out more about GoBubble Community on their website - gobubblehq.com.

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In the world of sports, where passion and precision collide, the playing field holds a special significance.

When it comes to hosting elite, high-profile football events, one challenge has always stood out; Maintaining the highest-quality natural grass throughout the entirety of the tournament. This challenge led Hamish Sutherland and his team at HG Turf Group on a remarkable journey of innovation, resulting in the creation of the revolutionary HERO Hybrid Grass.

HERO Hybrid Grass is the result of a ground-breaking partnership between HG Turf Group, Sport Group, Polytan (a member of Sport Group), and GST Global. This consortium of expertise seamlessly blends German synthetic fibre technology, South Korean manufacturing proficiency, and Australian natural grass know-how. The outcome? A technological marvel that is transforming the game of football from the ground up.

Sport Group Fibre: The key ingredient

Central to this innovation is the Sport Group fibre, a pinnacle of German engineering. With a legacy of excellence in developing synthetic grass fibre, Sport Group's contribution to HERO Hybrid Grass is pivotal. This partnership not only enriches the product's performance but also propels the industry forward by delving into eco-friendly solutions. Sport Group's venture into petroleum-free and CO₂ neutral fibres showcases a commitment to sustainability, aligning seamlessly with the changing environmental consciousness.

The hybrid advantage

Hybrid grass, the harmonious marriage of natural grass (95%) and synthetic grass (5%), has revolutionised elite football tournaments. The addition of synthetic fibres augments stability, durability, and consistency to the playing surface. As a result, players experience enhanced ball bounce, ball roll, and secure footing, redefining the dynamics of the game. Notably, this technical edge does not compromise the authentic feel of natural grass—a testament to the meticulous engineering behind HERO Hybrid Grass.

Making the beautiful game even more beautiful

Hybrid grass technology has opened new doors for football enthusiasts. Stadiums have become arenas of unparalleled performance, where players and teams can truly shine. The consistent playing surface ensures breath-taking plays, showcasing the sport at its pinnacle. Moreover, this innovation transcends players and teams, captivating spectators with an unmatched football experience. With HERO Hybrid Grass, fans are treated to impeccable playability, translating into unforgettable moments on the field.

Strong environmental performance

In an era where sustainability takes centre stage, HERO Hybrid Grass stands as a testament to responsible innovation. The partnership between HG Turf Group, Sport Group, GST Global, and Polytan underscores their collective commitment to environmental stewardship. At the end of its useful life, HERO Hybrid Grass is 100% recyclable, contributing to a circular economy. This dedication to reducing the environmental footprint aligns with the partners' shared values, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field.

Pitches made better: By science and nature

The synergy between cutting-edge engineering and the beauty of natural grass is embodied in HERO Hybrid Grass. This remarkable collaboration redefines the playing field and sets new standards for football pitch technology. With installations at prestigious stadiums hosting the Women's World Cup at venues - such as Stadium Australia, Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Perth Rectangular Stadium, Eden Park, and Wellington Regional Stadium - the impact of this partnership reverberates across the globe.

In an ever-evolving world where innovation is paramount, the HERO Hybrid Grass story is a testament to what can be achieved when expertise from around the world converges with a shared vision. As the football world looks forward to more elite events, it's clear that the hero of the field isn't just the player - it's the ground they stand on.

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Genius Sports Limited, Football DataCo's Official Tracking Provider, has announced a new relationship with Premier League Productions (PLP) to improve live broadcasts for fans in over 185 countries across the world through rich tracking data insights and data-driven augmentations.

PLP creates and distributes all of the Premier League's overseas content, including the telecast of all 380 league matches each season. PLP broadcasts now include a live 'Premier League Data Zone' viewing option, bringing fans closer to the action with rich data and tracking metrics in a highlighted match every match round as part of a cooperation between PLP, the Premier League, Football DataCo, and Genius Sports.

Everything from player names to passing accuracy, shooting velocity, sprints, total distance travelled, touches in the final third, and field maps is integrated into live broadcasts via a distinctive L-bar, answering the ever-increasing demand for data-driven insights among Premier League fans worldwide.

To enhance the fan entertainment experience, Data Zone will also include official Fantasy Premier League updates and standings.

Genius Sports CEO Mark Locke spoke on the deal and what it meant for both parties.

“Through Premier League Productions and their international broadcast partners, Genius Sports is revolutionising the viewing experience for millions of Premier League fans around the world,” he stated via press release.

“Powered by our Second Spectrum AI technology, we deliver an enriched visual experience with advanced analytics and key performance metrics in the live broadcast.”

Genius Sports is also FDC's authorised supplier of official live data to the worldwide sports betting business, offering the most up-to-date and accurate feed on all Premier League, English Football League, and Scottish Professional Football League games.

Genius Sports' Second Spectrum technology provides enhanced, data-driven Premier League, NFL, and NBA broadcasts on CBS, ESPN, NBA League Pass, and TSN.

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U.S. Soccer have recently announced a strategic partnership with Ticketmaster to become the Federation's official ticketing partner for the next several years.

The partnership is set to use Ticketmaster's industry-leading technology to support all ticketing initiatives and solutions with a goal to enhance the match day experience for fans at the stadium.

Ticketmaster is one of the world's largest ticket sales and distribution companies. They have serviced millions of events across many different countries they operate in, providing a quick and reliable online service for fans that is focused mainly on convenience.

There is an unprecedented line-up of soccer events coming to the United States over the next few years and the Federation is being proactive in its approach to ensure a reliable ticketing service.

The features being brought in will be a fresh change for fans who have previously struggled acquiring tickets to matches because of the multitude of unreliable services that were selling them outside of the U.S. Soccer website.

Ticketmaster plan to incorporate features such as mobile app integrations, use of a 3D Interactive Seat Map to enhance seat selection, and the ability to save tickets to mobile devices which eases access at the gates.

U.S. Soccer and Ticketmaster will also recognise fans through custom content that will highlight the undying commitment of fans and their journeys to U.S. Soccer-controlled events, including U.S. Women’s and Men’s National Team matches, and create unforgettable moments through engaging sweepstakes.

U.S. Soccer Chief Commercial Officer David Wright expressed his excitement for what the partnership was going to bring to U.S. Soccer

“Fans are the heartbeat of our business. Supporting our commitment to super-serve our passionate fans, we are excited to partner with Ticketmaster in our efforts to enhance the customer experience,” he said in a U.S. Soccer press release

“Ticketmaster has been at the forefront of technology and innovation in this space for years and is the perfect match as we continue to elevate and evolve as a property.”

Ticketmaster Executive Vice President & Co-Head of Sports Clay Luter explained how the partnership was going to improve fan engagement.

"The expansion of our partnership with U.S. Soccer is a testament to our commitment to celebrating passionate soccer fans,” he added via press release.

“As the game’s popularity continues to rise, we’re eager to take engagement and connectivity to the next level while actively discovering and connecting with new fans. Through our platform, we'll deliver must-have ticketing solutions, unique content and innovations that further fuel the interest in soccer across the country.”

The focus on fan engagement through augmented reality and app activations is a fantastic touch from the U.S. Soccer Federation, doing something that Australia has yet to attempt.

The country would definitely benefit by following the U.S. in their fan-first mentality, with an overall goal of making the matchday experience memorable and addictive, especially off the back of the Matildas World Cup success story.

This partnership is attempting to put the building blocks in to ensure crowd numbers are healthy as this new generation of soccer fans start to emerge. It is very strategic and has a forward outlook that must be applauded.

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In 2023, every inch counts. Whether it be on the field, the gym, or the training pitch. Coaches and players alike are desperate to obtain as much information as they can on their game, in a way in which they can digest and utilise to better their performance.

Metrica Sports is revolutionising the data analysis space, with applications across a variety of sports, including American football, basketball, rugby, and football. Using the Metrica Cloud Engine, Metrica Sports PLAY unleashes the potential from automated tracking data, with data packs suited to all levels of the game, enriching presentation, and video sessions. Metrica Sports offers a free version of the software, to allow smaller teams to test this out to determine the best possible options for the success of the club.

Metrica Sports has partnered with more than 300 professional teams across 80 countries worldwide.

PLAY goes one step further than the competitors. It visualises data in more than just graphs and charts. PLAY shows live 2D fields with moving markers to outline structure in play, in reference to where the ball and opposition is. This can be beneficial to coaches to determine if there is a hole that can be exploited more so by the opposition, such as being too compact in transition allowing the opposition to nullify counter attacks.

PLAY offers 3 methods of tracking players in game, each of which have their own benefits. Manual tracking takes the longest and allows coaches to manually select what in any given frame they want to analyse. However, what they select only covers a single frame, and must go through and select what they want across different frames.

Automatic tracking takes almost 1/3 of the time, with the ability to manually opt in or out of selected targets on the field to track. Metrica uses the example of tracking a defensive line as the ball is shifted onto the sideline, as one defender is engaged, showcasing the distance between the other defenders, and their direction changes to suit.

Automated tracking is similar to automatic but is simply effortless. Everything is tracked already, the ball and all players are tracked, and you can choose what to extrapolate from the data it collects, as well as how long into a recording the software needs to extrapolate the data from.

But with so much data and analysis, will some things may be overlooked? No chance. PLAY allows for playlists of clips from a match can be generated with tags to filter out of highlights and clips exactly what a coach or analyst wants to extrapolate. For instance, PLAY can allow generate tags for all clips that include building out from the back, by determining when there is possession in the defensive third. Along with attacking clips, transition etc., the ability to phase these out and only select the building out from the back will save an abundance of time, allowing coaches to further zone in on what is really important in these clips, and develop a strategy to overcome any issues found.

PLAY has a variety of analysis options for how coaches and staff want to structure a video session with players in preparation for the next match or look back at last weeks. Coaches have the ability to upload entire match long pieces of footage, and can either manually, or as described before, have PLAY’s Metrica Cloud Engine do all the hard work for you. The options are limitless for any football club who wishes to strengthen their analytical and tactical capabilities.

PLAY’s automated tracking data saves countless hours to provide a superior product to coaching staffs across the globe. Tagging clips with key phrases allows coaches to quickly find examples of focal points in the match to be analysed and investigated. The easy to navigate software is easy for both coaches to use, but to also present to other staff, board members and players, with relevant and appealing graphics as opposed to traditional stats and graphs. The automatic tracking feature can allow coaches to opt in and out of necessary analytical points to cater to what coaches explicitly want.

For more information on how Metrica Sports can benefit your coaching staff, click here

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Melbourne Victory have announced that AAMI Park will be implementing facial recognition technology as part of its security monitoring and surveillance system at the venue ahead of the 2023/24 A-Leagues season.

The goal from the A-Leagues is to introduce several tools to AAMI Park in order to create a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, guests, players and staff.

The technology may be used to identify individuals who have been banned by Football Australia, the Australian Professional Leagues, competing clubs as well as persons who pose a threat to the safety, security, or integrity of the event, venue, or precinct.

No Australian football fan has forgotten about the disgraceful riots and actions of the 'OSM' Victory supporters at last years' Melbourne derby - that evening at AAMI Park played a part in the swift decision to introduce this technology for safety purposes.

The technology works similarly to a QR Code like we saw during COVID-19 protocols where the system collects an image of a person’s face that is then converted into a special unique code known as a mathematical template for identification purposes (like a barcode).

Melbourne Victory Managing Director Caroline Carnegie explained what the technology means for future Victory games at AAMI Park.

“We have had an enormous amount of feedback from our members and fans around Stadium security measures and how we can ensure a safe environment for everyone to enjoy our games. As a Club, we are pleased that AAMI Park will have improved security measures in place this season,” Carnegie said in the press release.

“We are extremely excited for the season ahead and look forward to our members and fans supporting our boys and girls in blue and creating an atmosphere that rivals what we witnessed during the recent Women’s World Cup. We want an atmosphere that is representative of everything we love about football and that enables us all to represent our Club together.”

Melbourne Victory are preparing for another big season in both A-Leagues competitions, recently crushing the Women's team membership records and consistently being a top-three club membership wise in the men's competition.

This makes it extremely important that the club fixes the glaring safety issue at home games to prepare for this season and try to create a really attractive experience to increase crowd numbers at AAMI Park which have been down over 30% since the 19/20 season pre-Covid.

This technology has already been tried and tested in the Brazilian league at Allianz Parque, home of football club Palmeiras, with great success in its infancy.

The São Paulo Public Security Secretariat (SSP) revealed that the facial recognition technology helped arrest 28 criminals in the first four matches at the stadium, with 253 missing people identified and 146,793 tickets verified by the new tool since they brought it in mid-May 2023.

Initially, the facial recognition technology was brought in with an effort to speed up access to the stadium and also combat ticket touting, however clearly the statistics show that it has a lot of power combatting potential criminals which seems to be who the A-Leagues are targeting.

This move to implement facial recognition to improve fan and staff safety can only be seen as a huge positive and a rare proactive decision made by the A-Leagues.

The importance and magnitude of this move cannot be understated either as it also has the gleaming potential to transform the way we get into future A-Leagues events, how we buy food and merchandise, and the overall fan experience in the stadium.

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Venues have become much more than just a place for a football match on a Sunday. They are in use now more than ever, for concerts, functions, sporting events and training.

However, it is not every day that there is a concert or a match, leaving an empty venue sitting their awaiting its next big event. This also has meant no revenue for a club or the owners of the stadium.

Many stadiums and venues have increased their attractiveness to the public with the introduction of other activities, restaurants, and entertainment within their premises. This also can have the added effect of diversifying the public attention toward the club, with football fans going to restaurants, mini-golf courses, and other entertainment venues before or after a match, and potential walk-ins at football matches from those who attend the new entertainment venues.

However, this can bring about new challenges to a club, with innovation needing to be seamlessly integrated into a football fans experience at the club, as businesses and football clubs strive for excellence. Particularly with the ability for many games, especially in Australia, to be watched either at home or at a local pub or club, the onus is on venues and football clubs to deliver a succinct and entertaining experience for fans, to keep them coming back week on week.

The increase in reliability on technology services to engage and improve the fans experience at a football match can be costly, difficult to navigate and clustered. Many clubs tend to be on the back foot, chasing efficiency to keep up with their demand, and not proactively setting up for success in the future.

Many clubs are integrating managed service providers, such as PTI Digital, to oversee and assist in maintaining and supporting a venue’s technical operations. PTI Digitals team of IT experts house a range of skills which allow for efficient administration, security, and networking services, all of which are vital in the diversification of a venue attractions. PTI Digital also reduce costs of a venue or club, by removing the need to recruit new IT staff, or training staff with a narrow operating window, only to take care of a handful of tasks. Clubs and venues have constant access to PTI Digitals team of well-versed IT experts, who can assist in tackling challenges across a variety of areas.

PTI Digital has imposed itself within the UK sport market, with a deep understanding of sports event operations, and currently has six active managed services operations at major UK sporting venues - including Norwich Football Club, Crystal Palace, London Stadium, and London Olympic Park. PTI focuses on quality of efficiency and cost saving, with the ability to remove the need for a CTO for many of the venues that PTI oversees.

Flexibility for individual clients of PTI is also a major principle, with different infrastructure, cultures, and economic viability all taken into consideration. PTI also ensures to add a human touch to their services, allowing clients to easily digest information on their end, and do not need everything translated from a PTI expert. This is crucial for board meetings and other executive discussions, in which discussions can be held in house, with access to the bank of knowledge which PTI Digital provides to their clients. This will allow more informed decisions for future expansion plans, refurbishments, and other stadium and venue alterations.

PTI Digital's approach for clients is simple. There is a necessity to identify a long-term goal, which PTI Digital can help extract from a club, in which to focus resources for the future successes of the club. PTI also conduct a club analysis, to identify weak points, resources, and areas in which the club is performing well at from a brand point. PTI Digital will also analyse the difference between the vision of the club and where they are situated, allowing for a practical roadmap to be set in place, and ensuring flawless execution over a long-term period.

PTI Digital's transformation pyramid investigates the role in which technology can and is encouraged to play in an organisation’s future strategy and planning. PTI’s clients can delve into the wealth of data, and digital and commercial operations initiatives, in order to kickstart new revenue pathways, which will drive future success for a football club or venue.

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