How Technology Is Changing The Landscape Of Youth Sports

Technology is keeping people more connected than ever before. It is changing the youth sports landscape and revolutionizing communication and collaboration for the entire community. As with any change, technology has the potential to greatly help or harm the youth sports industry, depending on how it is used. 

Here at TeamSnap, we believe that technology is one of the greatest assets for any organization. Since 2009, we have been working diligently to revolutionize the way people manage sports and group activities. With over 24 million coaches, administrators, players, and parents using our management software, we understand just how useful technology can be when used responsibly. Here are some ways that technology is changing the landscape of youth sports everywhere. 

Recruiting

Once a complex and arduous process, technology has created a much more feasible process for youth sports team recruiting. Digitizing clips of your child’s skillset is an accessible and affordable way to get them noticed by coaches. There are countless recruiting websites available to upload video links and further build your child’s sports network and profile. Money is a drawback for these sites, however. Most recruiting platforms require hefty fees for membership and video uploading. If finances are an issue, you can still upload your child’s sports videos to various social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Having a public social media profile comes at no cost, and can still provide the publicity your child deserves. 

Social Media 

Social media platforms help create more easily accessible data for sports league teams. It is a powerful way to distribute information, share stats, and connect your communities. With teens spending upwards of nine hours on social media each day, there is plenty of opportunity for connection. Platforms like Facebook are also a great way to connect the parents of youth sports league members. Facebook is an option for quick updates and announcements regarding your sports team. Instagram is entirely visual and can be an excellent tool for building team spirit. Share high-quality images and videos here from your team’s practices and games to boost morale. Social media also increases recruiting opportunities by allowing coaches to access player videos and connect with prospective members. 

League Sponsors

Technology is an effective avenue for connecting with potential youth sports league sponsors. Social media platforms allow team members to host fundraisers and connect with potential investors. Local business owners are an ideal place to start when searching for sponsors, as they are often quite loyal to their community. Building an email marketing campaign is another option for distributing a donation in search of team sponsors. 

Video Streaming

Video streaming and conferencing are the new normal.With friends and family all over the globe, technology can help you feel close to those you love most, even if you are far away. Real-time video streaming allows parents, family, and friends to tune into every game remotely, no matter where they are. Additionally, video conferencing platforms like Zoom allow your teams to stay connected remotely. This comes in handy for hosting virtual practices and virtual get-togethers. Even if a youth sports team member is unwell or out of town, video conferencing helps them feel connected to their team. TeamSnap’s organizational platforms allow for crystal clear virtual and IRL scheduling with its user-friendly process. Here you can send instant updates to individual teams or a custom group with just a click of a button. 

Virtual Apps

Sports league organization benefits immensely from technology. Virtual apps allow for simplified community management and easy team digital team building. In June, we launched HomeCourt, a new way for coaches, organizers, and trainers to connect and activate their players virtually. HomeCourt allows users to easily create their own branded team presence and connect all their players in one place. You can invite players individually and distribute a URL to your team page for anyone to join the team. HomeCourt also provides challenges and leaderboards documenting overall performance rankings and comprehensive stat sheets. In the name of accessibility, HomeCourt technology is free for absolutely anyone and everyone. We want to make this type of technology available to youth sports leagues everywhere.

Do you or someone you know need help managing their sports team or club? Sign up for a free 21-day trial today. Or check out our club and league solution, TeamSnap for Clubs and Leagues if your team is part of a larger sports organization.