Technology firms changing the game in major sports

In an era where technology has become an integral part of everyday life, its impact on sports has become particularly profound.

Tech advancements take key facets of sport to unprecedented heights, improving accuracy and fairness while revolutionising performance.

Read on as we explore developments that underscore the growing role of tech in improving various crucial aspects of sports.

Performance optimisation in rugby

Global tech powerhouse NEC have shaken hands with National Rugby League (NRL) giants Melbourne Storm over a groundbreaking partnership.

NEC’s cutting-edge technology is prevalent in many major sports worldwide, particularly in lucrative markets such as the United States, Canada and Japan.

The global technology giants will now leverage their expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technology to help Melbourne Storm perform at their best.

Storm are already one of the most successful rugby teams in Australia, but are looking to kick things up a notch with NEC.

The tech company will identify key areas for improvement and design training plans that cater to every player’s specific needs.

This includes everything from keeping tabs on each player’s physical condition to optimising training regimens based on real-time data.

By bringing together advanced tech and elite athletic performance, NEC and Storm are setting a new standard for what can be achieved in professional sports.

Equine welfare and integrity in horse racing

Equine MediRecord (EMR) has made huge strides in improving equine welfare in horse racing by implementing systems that cater to their health and safety.

The company’s client list includes the Breeders’ Cup World Championships, British Horse Racing Authority, Saudi Cup and many more.

EMR has now spread its wings into Australia, with their equine medical record system set to be used for the nation’s most famous races - the Melbourne Cup, Cox Plate and Caulfield Cup.

This means that all the medical information about a horse will be recorded digitally, making it easier for trainers, vets and racing officials to see a horse's complete medical history.

The move comes at a time when new betting sites in Australia are increasing public interest in these high-profile events, so there can be no room for error in maintaining the integrity of the sport.

The welfare system also has algorithms that make sure the information is accurate and follows racing rules. This helps to ensure that only healthy horses are allowed to race, which is crucial for bettors.

EMR is not just a tool for maintaining veterinary records, it's a crucial component of anti-doping measures and a key factor in improving the betting experience.

Security is a hallmark of EMR. Once information is entered into the system, it cannot be tweaked, ensuring transparency and accountability for all stakeholders.

Real-time scoring accuracy in AFL

The Australian Football League (AFL) is taking a major leap into the future with the introduction of smart ball technology in the AFL Women's (AFLW) competition.

This groundbreaking innovation will make scoring decisions more accurate and reliable, which is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the sport that has long relied on human judgement.

The smart ball, which has been in development for over a year, is equipped with tiny sensors that track its every move. The sensors can tell how fast the ball is moving, where it's going and even if it crosses the goal line or hits the post.

This data is then sent to score assist officials who can use it to make more informed decisions and ensure that the correct outcome is achieved on the field.

Unlike the conventional video reviews, which can sometimes cause delays in the game, the smart ball works quietly in the background, so match officials are only alerted when necessary,

If the technology detects an incident like a foul or the ball crossing the goal line, the officials will be informed and can intervene by reviewing the play to make sure the right decision is made.

AFL football boss Laura Kane is excited about the new technology, claiming that it represents a ‘level of accuracy that we have not previously been able to facilitate’.

The successful use of the smart ball in the AFLW could lead to its introduction in other sports worldwide.