Ireland’s sports tech industry has helped to design a new ‘Digital Athlete’ programme, aimed at helping people to build careers in the country’s growing number of sports technology companies.
Through a new collaboration between Technology Ireland Digital Skillnet and SportsTech Ireland, a new career pathway into the industry has been created.
The first wave of recruitment for ‘Digital Athlete’ is aimed at women. On completion of the programme, participants will achieve a recognised data analytics accreditation and a mentored work placement in a sports tech company in Ireland.
Would you like to work in the SportsTech industry? 👩💻
SportsTech companies work across:
👉 IOT,
👉 Data analytics
👉 Wearable tech,
👉 Fan engagement...and much more ⬇️
https://t.co/7XFuq4fcJf@SportsTechIRE @StatsPerform @ORRECO1 pic.twitter.com/v0UaWuE1xZ
— Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet (@DigitalSkillnet) November 23, 2022
With companies such as Stats Perform, Orreco, Kitman Labs, DraftKings, Fitbit, Strava all based here, Ireland is now recognised as a global centre of excellence for SportsTech.
‘Digital Athlete’ organisers want to hear from women who enjoy sports and have a digital mindset, pointing out that applicants don’t necessarily need deep technical knowledge. They are looking for women who love sports and are open to developing new digital skills in a dynamic environment which provides active involvement with SportsTech companies.
Commenting on the launch of Digital Athlete, Maire Hunt, Technology Ireland Digital Skillnet Network Director, said: "Through the Digital Athlete programme, sports enthusiasts can now fully participate in the digital revolution. We are running the first programme specifically for women to help them access the many job opportunities that are out there.
"The Digital Athlete programme is looking for people with a passion for sports coupled with a digital mindset.
"With the right interests and mindset, our expert group of tutors and mentors will provide the skills in data analysis and innovation, familiarisation with the different areas within SportsTech, interaction with SportsTech company leaders and an opportunity to see what it’s like working in a SportsTech company."
The growth of the sector is notable, bringing many new career opportunities to Ireland. Sports tech companies work across IoT, sports performance, data analytics, broadcast, wearable tech, fan engagement, e-sports and sports eCommerce.
Globally, the global sports tech market was valued at €17.14 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to €39.25 billion by 2026. The sub-sector of the Sports Data Analytics market is predicted to reach almost €5.75 billion by 2026.
