Beyond the Field: Spatial Computing's Impact on Sports - MetaVisions #27

The last MetaVisions edition was very well received, with positive feedback on our approach to exploring how technology can impact different industries. This time, we dive into the world of sports, examining how Spatial Computing (XR, Metaverse, Real-time 3D) can revolutionize one of society’s most important markets. From enhancing training methods to enriching fan experiences, let’s explore the potential of this transformative technology.

Use Cases of Spatial Computing in the Sports World

Immersive Scenarios for training and recovery

Elite coaching staffs excel at ensuring athletes are game-ready, creating the coveted ‘match sharpness’ effect. We all know or heard of athletes that were ‘lions’ in training but turned into ‘cats’ during the ‘real thing’. Additionally, returning players often struggle to regain peak performance levels, not just physically but mentally. Extended time away from the game can disrupt their flow.

Using XR devices like the Quest or Vision Pro headsets can allow players to be immersed into scenarios that will test their decision-making, how quickly and how accurate they are making decisions.
For example, a football midfield player will be able to practice what the best ball-playing next step whilst a defender is quickly approaching them, the same can be said for a quarterback that needs to play a pass in a critical time of the match.
Not only this can be great to provide a way for athletes that are recovering from injury to keep on training the mental part of the game, but also provides the coaching staff some great datapoints to understand if the players are making the plays they want to see in-game, this should allow them to identify areas of strength and improvement within a squad.

Viewing the Game from a Different Angle

Innovation has drastically changed how we consume sports. From live broadcasts and newspaper reports to real-time social media updates and multi-angle TV coverage, our viewing experience has evolved. However, these experiences are still primarily through a 2D interface.

Mixed Reality offers a revolutionary way for fans and coaching staff to watch and analyze games. Imagine a ‘digital twin’ version of the match right before your eyes instead of the traditional 2D player icons. At a basic level, this provides a clearer view of player behaviour on the pitch. On an advanced level, users can 'step into the shoes' of individual players. Coaches, for example, can pause a match review at any point and switch to a player's perspective, enhancing performance analysis and decision-making assessments.

Fan Experience

Spatial computing can enhance the overall fan experience, from purchasing tickets to exploring stadiums:

Virtual stadium tours: Fans can take virtual tours of stadiums, exploring seating options, amenities, and even behind-the-scenes areas like locker rooms.

Ticketing systems: XR can simplify the ticket-buying process by allowing fans to visualize available seats and their views before purchasing.

Enhanced navigation: On game day, AR can assist fans in navigating to their seats, finding concessions, and locating facilities, improving the overall stadium experience.

A Real-World Success Case

Rezzil is an organization leveraging Spatial Computing to enhance athlete training, recovery, and coaching tools. Top players like Marcus Rashford and prestigious clubs such as Liverpool FC have used their platforms. In addition to this, The Premier League has agreed a four-year partnership with sports technology firm Rezzil to create an official virtual reality (VR) video game.

Set for release in late 2024, this official Premier League game will use real league data, allowing fans to step into their favourite players’ boots and recreate iconic goals and historic moments in an immersive digital environment.

As technology advances, its potential to disrupt industries, including sports, continues to grow. Spatial computing is enhancing the fan experience, improving player preparation, and elevating the entertainment factor to unprecedented levels.

See you next time,
Davi, MetaVisions