Digital Transformation in Sports

The sports industry is one of the most robust and competitive sectors in the world. Over the last decade, the integration of technology into sports has dramatically transformed the dynamics of how the sports industry operates. Sports analytics (i.e., the integration of data science and sports) is at the forefront of this digital transformation. Sports analytics encompasses the applications of innovative technologies and advanced analytical techniques to assess and enhance performance of players and teams, improve decision-making across diverse aspects, and bolster competitive advantages and strategies.

Digital Transformation in Sports explores the key driving forces and emerging trends that are fueling the digital transformation of the sports industry. It presents a collection of chapters that delve into state-of-the-art research and real-world applications of sports analytics, providing a diverse perspective on its transformative impact across different sports sectors. It showcases how advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing player performance, strategic decision-making, fan engagement, and operational efficiency. For example, by utilizing sensors, wearable technologies, tracking devices, and 5G networks, IoT technologies can collect an unprecedented amount of data in real time and enable the near-instantaneous transmission of this data to the centralized platforms for analysis. Sophisticated analytics powered by AI and ML enable the extraction of actionable insights from this raw data, transforming it into valuable intelligence that drives better decision-making.

By offering a bridge between theoretical frameworks and practical applications, this book demonstrates how such concepts as technology acceptance theories inform the successful implementation and adoption of analytics solutions. By drawing upon interdisciplinary insights, the chapters provide valuable tools and frameworks for researchers, analysts, practitioners, and stakeholders, delivering actionable guidance to harness the full potential of analytics in the rapidly evolving sports landscape.

Jillian McNiff Villemaire joined the Flagler College faculty in 2014. She teaches a variety of courses in the Department of Applied Management. Her primary interests include marketing, communications, and social media in the sports industry. Before devoting herself to undergraduate teaching, Dr. McNiff Villemaire worked in marketing for Boston University’s Fitness and Recreation Center and for the New England Patriots, the New England Revolution, and Gillette Stadium. She brings a passion for applied sport management learning strategies to her role as teacher and adviser.

Haiyan Huang earned a PhD in information sciences and technology at the Pennsylvania State University. Her primary research and teaching interests include data science and analytics, web usability and user experiences, IT adoption, diversity of the IT workforce, and global information systems development. Before joining Flagler College, Dr. Huang taught at Michigan Technological University, Purdue University Calumet, and the Pennsylvania State University. She has published more than 40 journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers.