Technology Game-Changing Impact on Sports. Sports has long served as the most significant source of entertainment for the masses. The people have enjoyed it for what it is. However, with technology transforming all aspects of our lives, this source of entertainment was not spared either. One of the growing problems with sports, referees often face allegations of negligence or false decision-making from the sides who end up on the losing side. Realistically in high-tension games, things tend to happen in fractions of seconds, not giving referees a chance to react appropriately. In addition, as there is too much at stake, sometimes players do not care for their safety either. Decision makers decided to incorporate technology into sports to deal with all this. However, the way it has transformed sports is genuinely unprecedented. In this article, we will shed some light on some areas of the game that have been changed thanks to technology.
1. Equipment:
Using equipment that is a breed of cutting-edge technology has made sports more safe and secure. Smart Helmets have served as a source of added security. It has significantly reduced the threat of severe brain injuries. Equipped with a sensor and a magnet, it aids in the force’s detection, dispersion, and displacement. Apart from the player’s safety, it can also provide the coach with data to make informed decisions.
2. Hawk-Eye Technology:
Hawk-Eye is used to detect the trajectory of the ball. It has been used in many sports like Cricket, Football, and Tennis, where by employing strategically placed cameras, it tracks the movement of the ball. In Cricket, it is often a game changer, as it can be used to overturn the decision of the Umpires. It is also used in pre-match discussions where analysts help the batters analyze how different bowlers bowl. In Tennis, it can be used to make crucial line calls. Serena Williams was once at the receiving end of three wrong-line calls that resulted in her getting eliminated. However, with the Hawk-Eye now, chances are minimal. In Football, it is used to inform the umpire if the ball has wholly crossed the goal line.
3. Tools of Training
Fitness plays a crucial role in the lives of athletes. Good Fitness is ensured through proper training. However, technology has also transformed this aspect of the game. Teams used a variety of software to analyze players’ Fitness. Softwares like BodyByte monitor and organize the players’ nutrition, Fitness, and training. Some sensors can measure the stamina of a player. Also, before a season begins, players’ Fitness is usually tested. It involves using gadgets to get data that depicts whether a given player has or lacks the physical ability to play through the season. This data is also used to manage their workload.
4. Data Analysis
Though this is not relatively new, it has made significant strides in recent years. Players, while playing, do things that come naturally to them. The players’ past performances are recorded and scanned using High Tech Computers to recognize specific patterns of their playing. The patterns are then shown are analyzed by experts. Players are then provided with a particular plan of action to tackle the opposing players. The technique was employed by Sir Alex Ferguson to effectively deal with Pirlo, the leading man of the AC Milan team during the Champions League of 2009-10.
Conclusion
While many argue that the integration of tech into sports has ruined the true essence of the game, there are still many examples where technology saved the day for sports. The difference between a win and a loss can be one wrong decision. Along with ensuring precision, technology has also significantly helped maximize players’ safety. As no competition is greater than the safety of a human being, this step received applause from everywhere. However, as is the norm that the human race has difficulty accepting, adapting, and acknowledging new things, the acceptance of these new technologies by all sets of fans will require some time. But still, no one can deny its effectiveness.