While some argue that nothing can replace raw athletic talent, there is no doubt that advances in sports technology are a major contributor to the incredible achievements of today’s athletes. Graphite tennis rackets, fiberglass poles, ultra-light running shoes, titanium golf clubs — these are the tools that give athletes an advantage over their competition. And while some debate whether or not current-day athletes should be held to the same standard as those who competed without the benefit of these tools, there is no doubt that modern technology helps make the game more accessible for both professional and collegiate athletes and fans alike.
In addition to improving equipment and making the game more exciting for spectators, technology has also made sports more lucrative for athletes. It allows coaches to monitor an athlete’s daily schedule, determine who slept well or when they snuck out for drinks, and track an athlete’s physical condition. It is even possible to see the distance an athlete ran during a workout and what stretches of the field they covered. This data gives coaches the ability to optimize the training regimens of their players.
Moreover, sports technology has also given athletes more control over their image and lifestyle. Instant replay, for example, has been a boon to the reputations of many athletes by providing a second perspective on controversial calls. It is also possible for athletes to connect with their fans in a more personalized way through loyalty rewards programs that offer perks like meet and greets with players and access to stadiums.