Just as the printing revolution overhauled dissemination of the written word and the Industrial Revolution paved the way for the world as we know it today through the introduction of cheap mass production, we’re currently amidst a technological revolution that bears much the same impact, changing the way we live forever.
Through advances in artificial intelligence, microchip production and the proliferation of the internet, humanity is unlocking the secret to new technologies at a rate unlike anything else in the history of the human race. These technological accomplishments have a role to play in every facet of life, whether it’s breakthroughs in medicine, automation changing the way we work and do business or even the little things like how we enjoy sports.
Here’s a look at how the ongoing technological revolution impacts those mundane pleasures of everyday life, changing the way we go to sporting events forever.
Evolution of Stadiums
In the past, attending a live sports event meant experiencing the game amidst basic seating arrangements and limited amenities. Traditional stadiums, while serving the fundamental purpose of hosting events, lacked the technological finesse we witness in modern counterparts. The landscape of stadiums has witnessed a remarkable shift with the integration of cutting-edge technology. Modern stadiums are not merely structures; they are intelligent, responsive entities. From smart lighting systems that adjust to the mood of the game to interactive digital displays that provide real-time statistics, technology has become the heartbeat of the contemporary stadium.
Virtual Reality: Baltimore Ravens Setting the Trend
As with most new developments, improvements in stadium technologies don’t advance in a linear fashion. They aren’t adopted across the board from day one, instead, depending on daring trendsetters to try something new and revolutionize the way they operate.
The Baltimore Ravens are one such example of a trailblazing franchise, as they started incorporating virtual reality experiences into their gameday repertoire during the 2019 NFL season. One such example went viral during one of their primetime games, where anyone with a virtual reality headset was able to see a terrifying digital reputation of the team’s namesake bird, several stories tall with blood red eyes and an ear piercing shriek, flapping menacingly above the crowd. Other examples of virtual reality sports experiences include live broadcasts that allow a fan to feel as if they’re at the stadium despite actually watching from the comfort of their own home: a nice compromise for fans to get the game day experience they crave without having to burn a hole in their wallet or travel long distances in order to do so.
Virtual reality is an excellent example of the Internet of Things (IoT), a computer science concept that encompasses the many devices we use on a daily basis to access the internet, as well as the way they all connect to one another through the power of the web. No matter if you’re in Baltimore, Maryland or Bangkok, Thailand, you can get an authentic gameday experience like no other.
Stadiums of the Future: Resorts and Casinos
This one may take quite a bit longer to implement, if only because of the complicated zoning procedures and regulations that stunt business growth across the United States.
Many professional sports franchise owners, including Mark Cuban of the Dallas Mavericks, are looking to overhaul the way the teams they own design their stadiums.
In the past, most owners tried to cut a deal with the municipalities they reside in, making use of public tax in order to fund their expensive stadiums. now, the pendulum may be swinging back in the other direction, as Cuban has expressed a desire to set up the Mavericks’ next stadium in such a way that kills several birds with one stone: he wants a casino on location, as well as hotel and resort properties, creating a miniature city to attract fans no matter the time of year.
Sportsbooks and their associated betting promos are growing like never before, and combining them with a resort experience and the sports that everybody loves is a gold mine waiting to be tapped into.
Some teams are already in the process of incorporating casinos into their stadium experiences, like the Cincinnati Reds: it’ll be exciting to see how the market reacts as more and more teams join the fold.
Impact on Sports Industry
Smart venues not only redefine the fan experience but also open new revenue streams for sports organizations. Digital sponsorships, targeted advertising based on fan preferences, and premium fan engagement packages contribute to a more lucrative sports industry. Immersive experiences foster a sense of community and connection among fans. Smart venues go beyond being a location for events; they become a hub for shared experiences, creating a dedicated fan base that returns for more, season after season.
It’s the Little Things
Last, but certainly not least are the little things that teams do in designing their stadiums to ensure an experience that fans will enjoy. The Las Vegas Raiders, for instance, built a full blown nightclub in the end zone of Allegiant Stadium, embracing Sin City’s party centric way of life; teams, and Sunny locals like the Jacksonville Jaguars and Arizona Diamondbacks incorporate swimming pools into their stadium designs, giving fans an opportunity to soak in the sun while taking in the game.
Even age can become a draw as the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers lean into the historical angle when promoting their hallowed stadiums. At the end of the day, fans want something that they can relate to, that reflects the characteristics of the teams they love. Fostering the right identity for a stadium goes a long way to creating that relationship.
Final Words
The journey through the evolution of stadiums and the rise of smart venues is a testament to the transformative power of technology. From enhancing fan experiences to contributing to sustainability, smart venues are shaping the future of sports and entertainment.
