The post Sports Tech College partners with Sunshine Coast Council appeared first on AIBC.
]]>To support the growth of this industry and prepare young Australians for future careers, Sunshine Coast Council has partnered with Sports Tech College.
This collaboration aims to deliver a specialised sports technology curriculum for primary and secondary schools in the region, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Funded by the Sunshine Coast Council, schools will be able to access the program over the next three years.
Sports Tech College Founder Matt Dobell said, “These both offer significant opportunities for sports technology sector entrepreneurs and educators like us. Teaching today’s school students practical, job-ready knowledge and digital practice is critical to their development and understanding of future technologies and possibilities.”
He added, “Working with Sunshine Coast Council, we have been able to customise content so that all school students can explore, celebrate, and build sustainable solutions through the lens of sports technology, giving them a natural competitive edge when preparing for their future careers.”
“Imagine, by 2032, having thousands of young professionals and volunteers from the Sunshine Coast with a deep respect and passion for sports technology and digital transformation. This is an opportunity for teachers and schools to have made a meaningful, lasting contribution to our next generation of leaders for Queensland and Australia.”
The Sports Technology Towards 2032 curriculum is designed to give students practical, hands-on experience in sports tech. Available to students from 5 to 10 years old, this elective course covers a wide range of topics, including sports analytics, wearable technology, and digital health.
By introducing sports technology at a young age, students gain exposure to cutting-edge innovations that will be pivotal in their future careers. The programme offers a stepping stone for students interested in pursuing further education in fields such as sports performance analytics or digital health. The ability to collect and analyse data in real time allows teams to make informed decisions, optimise performance, and reduce the risk of injury.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said, “Technology, data, IoT and AI are some of the fastest growing tech industry sectors within sports, health, gaming and entertainment. We are committed to building future-ready, world-class students who understand the real world today and the opportunities of tomorrow.”
Natoli added, “The micro-credential programme aligns with the Council’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the local economy with tech education highly relevant for our emerging knowledge and digital economies identified in the Sunshine Coast Regional Development Strategy 2013-2033.”
The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will serve as a catalyst for job creation in the sports tech industry. Thousands of new jobs are expected to be created, not only for sports tech specialists but also in related industries such as healthcare, education, and entertainment.
Digital health platforms are transforming the way athletes and sports organisations approach health and fitness. From telemedicine to AI-powered health analytics, digital health tools allow for more personalised and efficient care. In the sports world, these technologies help athletes track their recovery, manage injuries, and improve their overall well-being.
The demand for skilled professionals in sports analytics, wearable technology, and digital health is expected to skyrocket, making it an exciting time for students entering the field.
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]]>The post Australia’s sports technology sector hits $3.05 billion in 2024 appeared first on AIBC.
]]>Sports technology encompasses a wide array of products and services that combine sports and digital innovation. The Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN) recently announced that the sector has reached an impressive $3.10 billion in 2024. This figure represents a ten percent increase in revenue over the last 12 months, indicating robust year-over-year growth. Importantly, this sector now employs nearly 15,000 people, demonstrating its substantial contribution to the national economy.
The growth of the sports tech sector has been partly driven by the surge in consumer adoption of smartwatches, connected fitness systems, and training apps. In the 2024 financial year alone, mergers, acquisitions, and capital-raising activities in the sector amounted to $325 million.
According to the ASTN report, the Australian sports tech sector is transitioning from its ‘growth stage’ to a ‘maturity stage’. Despite this, revenue growth continues, although at a slightly slower rate. The report notes that there were 765 sports tech companies operating in Australia by June 2024, reflecting a 177 percent increase in the number of companies since 2012.
The sports tech sector intersects with several critical industries, including advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum technology. Dr Martin Schlegel, chair of ASTN, points out that sports tech is part of the priority areas identified by Australia’s National Reconstruction Fund. The fund is aimed at promoting industries that drive the nation’s economy, with sports tech standing as a critical player.
“Australia’s outstanding sporting culture, combined with professional achievements and world-class sports education, provides a solid foundation for the sports tech sector’s expansion. Sports tech intersects with many of the enabling capabilities which are part of the priority areas of the Australian economy identified by the National Reconstruction Fund. The next decade promises exciting opportunities for growth and innovation both domestically and internationally,” said Dr Martin Schlegel, chair of ASTN.
Dr. Schlegel further stated, “We can expect advancements in artificial intelligence, positioning, timing and sensing, advanced information and communication technologies as well as advanced manufacturing and materials or quantum technology will help to shape the future of various industries.”
Looking ahead, the sector is expected to see advancements in AI, positioning, timing and sensing technologies, and communication technologies. One of the most exciting prospects for Australia’s sports tech industry is its involvement in the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.
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]]>The post Genius Sports launches AI platform in Danish League appeared first on AIBC.
]]>Genius Sports and the Danish League are focused on a fan-first strategy that leverages AI technology to create a more engaging, interactive, and data-rich football environment. The partnership kicked off in 2021 with the introduction of tracking cameras in stadiums, providing a foundation for real-time data collection and AI-driven insights.
GeniusIQ takes the raw data captured by the tracking cameras and applies machine learning algorithms to translate the information into a semantic understanding of football. Essentially, it decodes the game into a language that coaches, teams, and fans can easily understand and utilise.
One of the standout features of this AI platform is that it helps coaches and analysts to track game data more deeply. Instead of spending hours researching footage, they can now access critical information such as how a full-back performs in 1v1 defensive situations or how effective a striker’s off-the-ball runs are. This level of detail helps coaches make more informed decisions both during training and in matches. With access to real-time data, coaches can adjust their game plans in minutes.
One of the most exciting innovations introduced by Genius Sports is the AI-powered broadcast feature called “Manager Mode.” This feature debuted during the Danish Cup Final between Silkeborg and AGF, giving viewers a new way to engage with the game. Manager Mode offers real-time tracking data such as player minimaps, shot speeds, and player statistics directly into the live broadcast, providing fans with a more immersive viewing experience.
Despite the clear benefits, implementing AI in top-tier sports comes with challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is aligning the needs of various stakeholders, from teams and broadcasters to sponsors and governing bodies. The Danish Super Liga, however, has laid the groundwork for successful integration by focusing on clear objectives and ensuring that everyone is on board with the AI-driven strategy.
Looking forward, the combination of AI and Augmented Reality (AR) could further enhance the viewing experience. Similar innovations are already being rolled out in other leagues like the Premier League. The future of AI in Danish football looks promising. With plans to expand the use of augmented broadcasts and AI-powered features, the Danish League is setting itself up as a leader in sports innovation.
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]]>The post From the court to crypto: Jared Dillinger ventures into Web3 and blockchain appeared first on AIBC.
]]>Speaking with AIBC News, Dillinger said he is exploring the dynamic world of Web3, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology. Dillinger leads a media production company that delves into Web3, gaming, and finance. “Daredevil Media is a network that I’ve created where I have not only my personal brand, but I also have two hit shows,” Dillinger shared during the AIBC Asia conference. This venture showcases his growing interest in technology and innovation, highlighting his ability to balance his sports career with his digital pursuits.?
Dillinger’s Daredevil Media serves as a hub for his digital content, featuring two successful shows: “Let It Fly,” a basketball podcast that ranks number one in the Philippines and number four in the United States, and “GM Crypto,” which focuses on Web3, blockchain, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and holds the top spot in tech news in the Philippines and fourth in the US. Dillinger expressed his enthusiasm about the network’s rapid growth, stating, “I’m having a lot of fun. We’re getting a lot of distribution, whether it’s in the States, whether it’s here, and we’re just getting bigger and bigger.“?
Dillinger’s interest in blockchain and cryptocurrency was sparked during the pandemic, a period that gave him the freedom to delve into new interests outside of basketball. “I had a lot of time to think, to calculate, and to figure out how I could do this properly,” he explained. After two years of dedicated learning, marked by both gains and losses, Dillinger found his footing in the industry, guided by valuable mentors. He remarked, “Things have been picking up quite well, but the job is not finished. I still have more scaling to do.”?
Offering advice to newcomers in the blockchain and crypto space, Dillinger stressed the significance of education and a cautious approach. “There’s a lot of information out there that’s not the correct information,” he warned. ??
As an avid gamer and streamer, Dillinger sees immense potential in the convergence of gaming, AI, and blockchain. He believes these elements will drive the future of Web3, emphasising that “Gaming mixes so well into a handful of crypto components.” He pointed out the compatibility between NFTs and gaming, suggesting that the shift from traditional servers to decentralised nodes could transform game management and gameplay. “Gaming is really going to be the central force that crypto will be piggybacking on for years to come,” Dillinger predicted.?
Moreover, Dillinger is optimistic about how technology will revolutionise sports, particularly through the integration of blockchain, AI, and crypto. He envisions enhanced fan engagement, deeper analytics, and improved transparency, noting, “We can have deeper analytics. Everything’s going to be transparent on the blockchain, and you can’t change that.” ?
Dillinger also sees the potential for AI referees to make accurate, unbiased calls. Despite these advancements, he emphasised that the primary goal should be to benefit the sports community, stating, “The main thing is really servicing the community behind these sectors.”?
In the future, Dillinger said he plans to transition into a coaching role in basketball, utilising his leadership skills to mentor the next generation. Regarding Daredevil Media, he envisions expanding beyond podcasts and shows, sharing his ambition: “I think the next step is that we need to build a website similar to the Players Tribune.” Dillinger also hopes to explore sports documentaries, aiming to bring the stories of Filipino sports figures to a wider audience.?
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]]>The post Sports Technology start-up nears €3 million seed funding appeared first on AIBC.
]]>The pre-seed round exceeded expectations, with Enterprise Ireland as the principal investor, contributing through three separate funds over the past three years: the Competitive Startup Fund (CSF) in 2022, the Pre-Seed Startup Fund (PSSF) in 2023, and the High Potential Start-Up Fund (HPSU) in 2024. Additional funds were secured from Hummelnest, an Austrian international accelerator, which selected Precision Sports as one of over 300 European companies for investment. UK and Irish angel investors also contributed an extra €100,000.
“We’re raising our seed round to drive our expansion into the U.S. market,” Meehan shared with the Business Post. “We plan to hire two U.S.-based employees—one on the east coast and one on the west coast—to close deals with potential clients in the NFL and NBA.”
While Precision Sports already has clients in Major League Soccer (MLS) and Major League Baseball (MLB) through word-of-mouth referrals, the company is yet to launch a formal marketing campaign in the U.S. “Bigger NFL and NBA teams need full-time, on-the-ground support, unlike MLS teams that often look to Europe for solutions,” Meehan explained. “We’re focusing on solidifying our European soccer client base before leveraging those relationships to gain traction in the NFL and NBA.”
Meehan is targeting a seed funding round of between €2.5 and €3 million to finance Precision’s U.S. expansion, with hopes of securing a venture capital investment of at least €1 million. She mentioned ongoing discussions with Irish VCs who have shown interest but are awaiting a successful customer acquisition strategy before committing. While the Irish VC market remains a viable option, Meehan is particularly interested in the health and sports VC networks in the UK and US.
“Many VCs only start investing from €750,000 to €1 million upwards, which has been challenging for us in the past. They’d often say, ‘You’re too small; you’re only looking for €300,000!'” Meehan noted.
In parallel with fundraising efforts, the Precision Sports team is developing a more user-friendly second version of their software, with the first version primarily serving physiotherapists and personal trainers. Looking ahead, the company is considering becoming a “white label” technology supplier, aiming to be the foundation for the entire movement industry.
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]]>The post IOC shifts from Mario & Sonic games to NFTs, esports appeared first on AIBC.
]]>Several media reported Lee Coker, the producer behind the Mario & Sonic games, revealing that the IOC decided to explore other opportunities post the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. According to Coker, the committee aimed to internalise the project and seek new partners, including those involved with NFTs and esports. This strategic shift was driven by a desire to increase revenue by cutting ties with expensive partners like Nintendo and Sega.??
During 2020 and 2021, NFTs (non-fungible tokens) saw a surge in interest from various businesses and organisations, including the IOC. Although the NFT market has since cooled, the IOC’s initial interest led them to incorporate these digital assets into their plans. This pivot included the development of a new game for the Paris 2024 Olympics that integrates NFT collectibles.??
Replacing the traditional Mario & Sonic game, the IOC introduced “Olympics Go! Paris 2024,” a free-to-play game available on Android, iOS, and PC. Developed by nWay, known for its Power Rangers games, this title features 12 mini-games based on Olympic sports such as archery, swimming, golf, and fencing. Despite its release, the game has received limited promotion, leaving many potential players unaware of its existence.??
In “Olympics Go! Paris 2024,” players can earn NFTs, such as digital pins showcasing the Paris 2024 mascot. These collectibles can be traded on platforms like Magic Eden, with integration into Coinbase’s Onchain Summer event. Players need an ETH L2 Base-supported wallet to participate in these transactions, aligning the game with the growing digital economy.??
Last week, the IOC approved the creation of the Olympic Esports Games, with the inaugural event set to take place in 2025 in Saudi Arabia. The IOC said the decision was endorsed unanimously by the 142nd IOC Session held in Paris.? ??
The decision to end the Mario & Sonic series marks a significant shift in the IOC’s approach to gaming. Over two decades, six titles were released, tying in with the Summer and Winter Olympics, and bringing joy to fans of all ages. The collaboration between Nintendo and Sega, featuring once-rival mascots, became a symbol of unity and fun in the spirit of the Olympics.??
While the departure from Mario & Sonic games might disappoint many fans, the IOC’s new focus on NFTs and esports reflects a broader trend towards digital transformation. As the organisation navigates this new terrain, it remains to be seen how successful these ventures will be in engaging a new generation of fans and maintaining the Olympic spirit in the digital age.?
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]]>The post Paris 2024: AI and technology take centre stage appeared first on AIBC.
]]>According to the Olympics website, the Olympic AI Agenda is the third in a trilogy of strategy documents launched under the leadership of IOC President Thomas Bach and presents the envisioned impact that artificial intelligence (AI) can deliver for sport. “The Olympic AI Agenda sets out a governance and oversight framework to identify and mitigate risk, and it will be a continuous process to leverage the insights and experience of prominent experts to support the deployment of AI for the Olympic Movement,”?the document said. ??
Moreover, the Olympics said it recognises that the future of AI in sport is not a solo venture. “That is why the IOC is inviting all its stakeholders across the Olympic Movement – athletes, International Federations (IFs), National Olympic Committees (NOCs), Worldwide Olympic Partners, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and many other organisations – to embark on this transformative journey, while remaining vigilant to the potential risks,” it said. ??
The Paris 2024 Olympics will run from July 26 to August 11.??
Beyond athletic performance and broadcasting, AI plays a crucial role in the logistics and security of the Olympics. AI systems ensure smooth and safe operations, from crowd management to event scheduling. ?Sustainability is also in the core of the IOC’s focus. The IOC said that by optimising resource allocation, energy consumption, and waste management, the technology will help minimise the impact of the Olympics in the environmental. ??
As AI becomes more embedded in the Olympics, ethical considerations have become increasingly important. Moreover, data privacy, fairness in AI decision-making, and maintaining the human essence of sports are at the forefront of discussions.?
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]]>The post Crypto’s new sponsorship venture in Premier League football appeared first on AIBC.
]]>The contract covers the men’s first team and also secures brand visibility for Rollbit around St Mary’s Stadium through LED advertising and hospitality. This partnership is a significant milestone for both parties, with Southampton FC recently securing their return to the Premier League and Rollbit expanding its presence in the sports industry.
Rollbit takes over from Sportsbet.io as Southampton’s front-of-shirt partner. Sportsbet.io, a multicurrency sports betting firm, had sponsored the club since the 2020/21 campaign, replacing LD Sports when the Chinese brand’s three-year deal ended prematurely. The official release describes Rollbit as an ‘innovator in the world of online gaming and entertainment’, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the rapidly evolving world of online gaming and crypto.
Southampton FC joins a growing list of English top-tier sides that have a gambling firm as their new main sponsor for the 2024/25 season, including Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, Leicester City, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. This trend reflects the increasing influence of crypto and online gambling companies in the world of sports sponsorship.
Greg Baker, Southampton’s chief revenue officer, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We’re pleased to welcome Rollbit, a leader in the online gaming space, into the Saints family as our official front of shirt partner. This partnership marks a dynamic fusion of technology and sport, at an exciting time for the club as we embark on our journey back in the Premier League. Together, we look forward to creating unforgettable moments for our fans.”
Sam Norman, head of partnerships for Rollbit, echoed these sentiments, saying, “Rollbit is delighted to announce its latest partnership with Southampton FC following on from their incredible win in the playoff final. We feel Southampton is the perfect club to embark on this journey with as we look to continue to expand our presence globally with one of the Premier League’s most respected teams.”
As crypto continues to make strides in the world of sports sponsorship, this partnership between Southampton FC and Rollbit represents a significant step forward, bringing crypto and sports together in Premier League football.
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]]>The post Google, NBCUniversal partner for Paris 2024 Olympics AI-powered coverage appeared first on AIBC.
]]>“We are thrilled to announce Team USA’s partnership with Google,” Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee said. “This collaboration is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a powerful alliance that brings together the best of technology and sports.”?
Google, alongside NBCUniversal, will utilize AI to enrich the viewing experience of the Paris Games. This integration includes various Google products such as Search, Maps, and the?Gemini AI, which will be embedded within NBCUniversal’s comprehensive coverage.?
NBCUniversal’s “Explain the Games” feature will showcase Google Search’s AI Overviews, aiding commentators in providing in-depth explanations of various Olympic and Paralympic events. This initiative aims to answer viewers’ questions with a single search, enhancing understanding and engagement during both daytime and primetime broadcasts.?
During the Games, viewers will follow comedian Leslie Jones, serving as Chief Superfan Commentator, as she uses Google’s Gemini AI. Jones will leverage Gemini to create custom moves and learn new sports, sharing her experiences across NBCU’s networks and Peacock, thereby making the coverage more interactive and entertaining.?
The partnership also includes social videos and late-night promos featuring five Olympians and Paralympians exploring Paris. These athletes will use Google Lens, Circle to Search, and Immersive View in Google Maps to discover the city, highlighting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Stade Roland Garros.?
Viewers will also experience enhanced 3D broadcasts of iconic Olympic venues, courtesy of Google Maps Platform’s Photorealistic 3D Tiles. This technology will provide immersive views of locations such as Versailles and the Aquatics Centre, making audiences feel as though they are on the ground in Paris.?
“We are very excited to be partnering with Google to deliver innovative, highly engaging elements that will enhance the coverage of the Paris Games for our audiences,” Dan Lovinger, President of Olympic & Paralympic Partnerships at NBCUniversal said. “This one-of-a-kind partnership demonstrates the endless possibilities when you combine innovative technology with premium content.”?
NBC and Peacock will present live coverage of the Opening Ceremony on July 26, with comprehensive broadcasts continuing through August 11. NBCUniversal holds the U.S. media rights to the Olympic Games through 2032, promising to bring future events from Milan Cortina, Los Angeles, and Brisbane to audiences with enhanced AI features.?
Marvin Chow, Vice President of Marketing at Google, added, “Our partnership with Team USA and NBCUniversal during the Olympic & Paralympic Games provides an incredible stage to showcase how Google’s everyday products and newer innovations like Gemini are using AI to help fans explore, learn, and connect with the Games.”?
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]]>The post nWay to unveil Paris 2024 mascot NFT pins appeared first on AIBC.
]]>According to its press release, the collection features two distinct designs of the Paris 2024 mascot, available in both Epic and Legendary rarities. Collectors can claim these pins showcasing the mascot holding a flag or waving. Additionally, participants in the My Olympic? Rewards program can redeem points for an Epic pin featuring the mascot with the Paris 2024 emblem.?
Existing nWayPlay (NWP) community members and supporters of the Olympic Games Jam (OGJ) will receive all four pins, with the legendary pin being an exclusive reward.?
?? They’re here, and ready to cheer on the athletes! Own a piece of the Olympic Games with our Paris 2024 Mascot NFT digital pins.
Head over to our blog for more details ?? https://t.co/2jd5RL5IGA#Paris2024 #Olympics #Paris2024Mascot pic.twitter.com/sTV7aajSVY
— nWay (@nWayGames) July 9, 2024
The Paris 2024 Mascot NFT digital pins are designed to be non-transferable, requiring a Base-supported wallet for minting. The minting period for these collectibles starts on July 9 and ends on August 12, aligning with the Onchain Summer event.?
San Francisco-based nWay specialises in developing cross-platform games. According to its website, the company has a track record of creating AAA-quality games for mobile and console platforms, including titles like Wreck League and Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid.?
Onchain Summer, initiated in 2023, is a multi-week event encouraging creators to launch projects on Base, a secure Ethereum scaling solution by Coinbase. ?
As part of the Olympic Agenda 2020+5 initiatives, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has developed a global licencing programme to enhance the Olympic brand. The programme includes The Olympic Collection, The Olympic Heritage Collection, and The Olympic and Paralympic Games Collections, offering a range of official merchandise, collectibles, and souvenirs.?
The Paris 2024 Mascot NFT pins serve as a testament to the growing integration of digital assets in celebrating global events, providing fans with a modern way to engage with the Olympics.?
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