The internet has definitely affected a lot of industries worldwide. And no, we’re not saying it’s a bad thing. In fact, it probaby did more good than bad. For the sports industry, the impact of the internet has been nothing short of a game-changer. From the way it made live sports more accessible to millions of people around the world to how professional teams monitor their players’ performances, the internet has certainly affected the sports industry positively.
However, it goes beyond just having a reliable internet service provider and being able to watch your favorite teams live over the web. Here are five ways the internet has changed the sports industry:
- Increased Accessibility for Fans
Of course, the first on this list would be how the internet changed the way fans follow sports. Even if you live in the other side of the world, you can catch your favorite games happening anywhere in the world, no matter the time, with live streaming services. Aside from streaming platforms, most major sports network already have their own website where they provide in-depth analysis and constant updates about leagues, players, and more.
Social media is another aspect that most fans loved, especially with behind-the-scenes content, live commentary threads, and the ability to talk to fellow fans from around the world. It made the sports industry more united in a way. However, to enjoy this, you need to have the best internet provider because everything is online nowadays.
- Training and Performance Analysis
Due to continuous technological advancement over the years, there are now a lot of wearable gadgets that allows athletes to track their performance during training and competitions. The coaches and trainers can utilize the data, like heart rates, from these gadgets to improve their training programs and identify specific areas where athletes can excel or improve on. This can help maximize the abilities of every athlete.
- More Revenue Streams
The internet has opened up new revenue streams for sports organizations. With the rise of streaming services, fans can now subscribe to watch games without having a cable TV subscription. Social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok also provide lucrative opportunities for teams and leagues because most platforms nowadays have some kind of monetization programs for individuals or organizations with big followings.
The best part about this is even athletes can use these platforms to earn themselves extra money. Of course, they will need to have a good internet connection at home if they plan to do live streams regularly. If not, it’s time to look into better internet plans in the market.
- E-Sports Opportunity
With more and more people into gaming, the e-sports industry is definitely headed towards the skies. From DOTA 2 and League of Legends to Call of Duty and PUBG, there's no doubt that e-sports has changed the lives of many everyday gamers. Some even become celebrities and millionaires, while others get scholarships and career paths. It's definitely a different world for gamers, and even though many would say that there's no future in gaming, this advancement has proved those people wrong. Although just a disclaimer, it wouldn't be easy.
- Easier Scouting and Recruitment
The internet has made it easier for scouts to identify and recruit talented athletes. Video sharing platforms like YouTube allow athletes to showcase their skills to a global audience, which gives talent scouts an easier time looking for potential next-gen stars. Social media also allows scouts to connect with athletes directly. No need for stressful and unsuccessful trips.
The Bottom Line
It’s safe to say that there are a lot of benefits the internet has provided the sports industry in general. The convenience and accessibility it brought probably was enough for a lot of fans, but there’s actually more to it than what we probably see or realize. The internet is a win-win for both fans and sports organizations worldwide.
