Today, there is an accelerated growth in technology's presence throughout every aspect of the game. This includes tracking technology - such as wearable data that provides insights into players health to advanced camera-based technology to monitor performance. One way that arena sports tech is growing is by enhancing the game experience for fans in attendance or viewing from home. With the Gen Z generation rising, we can only assume these digital natives will continue to grow technology's presence in athletics and expect tech-enabled game days from tailgates, living rooms, and stadium seats!
Enhancing fan experience, in this (Wyn)House, means minimizing a fan’s time away from the game and maximizing their engagement during it; and it begins the moment they book their ticket or turn on the tv.
One of the stadiums embracing tech-enablement in the game is that of the Buffalo Bills. Highmark Stadium, set to complete its upgrade fall of 2026, has been deemed a “data-intelligence-fueled” experience. They’re also making sure to bring in their special teams of fans to ensure the planning process for the new stadium is built with fans for fans.
Another stadium belonging to a team whose philosophy is to be “innovative and a technology-first mover” is looking to increase their use of technology to enhance their fan’s game-day experience beyond the number of times they win. Levi’s Stadium, home to the San Francisco 49ers, is developing their game plan around the new quarterback, Big Data. Having Silicon Valley as their offensive coordinator definitely bolsters their tech-driven game plans and helps write future plays to bring in emerging technology like machine learning and predictive analysis into the game. The team uses Executive Huddle, developed by SAP, to enhance real-time data in fan feedback allowing them to call a timeout to enhance the experience rather than have to wait until halftime.
During the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, MI, technology was the city’s first pick. Fan experience was a key focus area at the 2024 NFL Draft. However, the use of technology to enhance the draft weekend experience wasn’t stuck in the city limits of Detroit. The Chicago Bears utilized 3D holograms to introduce their new picks to the fans at their draft party in Soldier Field; a technology provided by Proto Epic. A great example of teams looking to expand the fan experience outside of stadium walls!
At this point, many people have heard how awesome an experience is at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Sphere showed U2, John Mayer and the Dead, and even an NHL Draft. This draft was unlike anything as fans who were present were given the full experience and the 160,000 sq. foot screen was utilized to show stats, teams, and pictures of players. Teams were able to showcase branding in unique ways with full sized graphics. Parents who attended the event were stunned when they saw their kids on one of the largest screens in the world.
Screenshots via (https://www.youtube.com/@brodiebrazil)
Stadiums are getting smarter with tech innovations enhancing both player performance and fan experiences, whether in the arena or at home. Highmark Stadium for the Buffalo Bills and Levi’s Stadium for the 49ers are leading the charge, integrating data intelligence and real-time fan feedback to elevate the game day thrill. From 3D holograms at the NFL Draft to immersive experiences at the NHL Draft in Las Vegas, technology is redefining how fans connect with their favorite sports.
