Enhancing the Game-Day Experience: A Visually Impaired Fan's Journey with Innovative Technology at Atlanta Hawks Games
Beau Broten, a visually impaired sports enthusiast, has found joy and excitement in attending Atlanta Hawks games at State Farm Arena. Despite being blind for 20 years, Broten's passion for sports has only grown stronger. He has been a Hawks season ticket holder for nearly a decade and is now experiencing a new way to enjoy the games thanks to innovative technology.
The Hawks, in partnership with Ticketmaster and OneCourt, have introduced new technology that allows visually impaired fans like Broten to engage with basketball games using their other senses. This technology provides real-time audio broadcasts of the game, tracks the ball and players on the court, and notifies fans of key game events. Fred Ravenell, senior vice president of guest experience operations with the Hawks, emphasized the arena's commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming environment for all fans.
During a recent Hawks game, Broten had a sensory-rich experience thanks to OneCourt. The technology not only allowed him to follow the game closely but also provided a unique way to feel the action through dynamic vibrations. OneCourt CEO Jarred Mace was inspired to develop this technology after seeing a video of a blind person experiencing a soccer match with the help of a companion. The combination of audio and haptics creates a comprehensive experience for fans of various sports.
Mace highlighted the potential of this technology to enhance the fan experience at sports venues across the country and beyond. The Hawks are the first team in Georgia to offer OneCourt at every home game this season, with the goal of expanding its use to more venues in the future. For Broten, this technology has opened up a new world of possibilities, allowing him to stay connected to the sports he loves despite his visual impairment.
Broten's adventurous spirit and love for sports shine through, demonstrating that even when some senses fade, others can be heightened to create a fulfilling experience. He values the opportunity to engage with the game through his ears and sense of touch, finding a sense of community and enjoyment in attending live sporting events. The innovative technology provided by OneCourt has transformed Broten's game-day experience, showcasing the power of technology to make sports more accessible and inclusive for all fans.