In a first for rugby in South Africa, the Stormers are using drone technology to the benefit of both their game, and fan interaction.
Views from a drone held camera will be used to assist coaches via high-end analytics from an unparalleled perspective.
Through a partnership with UAV Industries, drones are being used at the Stormers practices, offering unique angles without getting in the way!
From a full view of the defensive line, coaches get a great view of the player spacing from a single piece of footage.
Fans will get a chance to get closer to the action, able to track their favourite players thanks to special footage that will be shared via the Stormers Magazine and social media platforms.
UAV Industries’ Operations Manager Braam Botha said: “We’re delighted to be working with WP Rugby in bringing the unprecedented aspect of movement around the pitch and available space that only drone footage can deliver using our licensed pilots.”
Coach Robbie Fleck is looking forward to using it as a coaching tool.
“It’s an exciting time for rugby the world-over and innovation is playing an interesting role in terms of how the game is advancing. As a team, we’re all about pushing boundaries so we’re looking forward to seeing how we can use drone footage to our advantage and also, to our fans’ advantage,” said Fleck.
A pic of the team at Newlands this week:
Hi Tank,
I would like to differ with you on the comment “in first for rugby in South Africa” as i have personally used drones for game analysis for quite a couple of months now.
Kobus Fourie
Apologies Kobus. Perhaps “A first in SA franchise rugby” would be more appropriate?