Fuel Up to Play 60 and Technology

On March 25, 2014, I got to experience something not many 16-year-olds experience. I was invited to represent Fuel Up to Play 60 and speak on a panel at the Sony Open in Miami with executives from SAP. SAP is the world’s largest software company, which meant a lot of influential people in the world of technology. The technology that was showcased at the event was astonishing. Picture heat maps of the best players, live replays, placement of returns on the first serve, and many more features in the palm of your hand. As it was explained by Steve Peck, an executive for SAP, “We are constantly multi-tasking when it comes to sports. We sit on our couch with phone in hand either looking at stats or videos.” So being able to take that experience and add it to live sports is a very handy tool for spectators both in the stadium and at home.

The technology that I found really interesting is their “Sentimental Analysis” program. Basically, it is available for spectators to comment on the game while it is happening, giving feedback on good or bad calls while the game is going on right before them. I thought this was incredible and could be used with Fuel Up to Play 60 across the nation. Imagine if we had an app where as we tried new Plays or brand new ideas in the school systems; students could respond back to their Fuel Up to Play 60 committee right there. I personally believe that this could make the program better as a whole by making it more efficient. Now, instead of students writing out a survey and turning it in, they can post comments on how the play could be changed or what could make it better. I believe that this kind of technology has the potential to change both the Fuel Up to Play 60 program, and the way that schools work as far as student feedback.

Tyler
Youth Council Member
Michigan
10^th Grade