Drones Take Center Stage: A New Era in Sports Broadcasting
The Winter Olympics in Italy not only showcased incredible athletic feats but also marked a significant leap in sports broadcasting, thanks to NBC Sports' innovative use of drones. These first-person view drones provided viewers with an unprecedented up-close look at the athletes in action, revolutionizing the way we experience the Games.
As Mike Sheehan, NBC’s coordinating director for the Olympics, noted, "Drones keep getting better, faster, smaller, more agile and longer-lasting." This advancement has finally allowed them to be seamlessly integrated into large-scale broadcasts.
The success of drones at the Olympics begs the question: could we see this technology becoming a staple in other sports? The answer is a resounding yes, with baseball potentially leading the charge. Cullen Maxey, the Royals’ president of business operations, has expressed enthusiasm about incorporating drone technology into game coverage, especially now that Major League Baseball has taken over the team’s broadcasts.
Maxey highlighted the potential of drones while discussing the transition of games from FanDuel Sports Kansas City to Royals.TV. He emphasized MLB's deep-rooted passion for baseball and their commitment to enhancing production quality.
"It’s basically the same production staff that does everything," he mentioned, underscoring the continuity and expertise involved. With the added investment in technology, fans can expect an enriched viewing experience.
While drones have made appearances at the World Series and All-Star Game, their regular use in Royals coverage would be a groundbreaking development. Maxey, who joined the Royals after his tenure with the Diamondbacks, brings a wealth of experience in adopting new technologies. In Arizona, he was part of the team that introduced the wire cam and tested the base cam, paving the way for future innovations.
As MLB continues to explore new technological frontiers, including the (ABS) challenge system, the integration of drones could be on the horizon for more teams. This evolution in broadcasting not only enhances the fan experience but also sets the stage for a new era in how we watch and enjoy sports. With drones offering unique perspectives and dynamic angles, the future of sports broadcasting looks more exciting than ever.