The Soccer Tournament (TST) wrapped up last weekend in North Carolina, with million-dollar prizes awarded to both men’s and women’s champions.
While most teams were amateur squads chasing glory and cash, several professional clubs joined the party – including AFC Bournemouth from the English Premier League, who saw TST as the perfect chance to boost their US fanbase ahead of the Premier League Summer Series.
Backed by Chicago-based minority investors Ryan Sports Ventures, the Cherries came loaded with tech: ‘Playmaker Sensors’ strapped to their boots tracked every pass, shot, possession stat, and sprint. That data then made its way to ESPN’s broadcast team via Tagboard, another RSV portfolio company, complete with shoppable QR codes that actually generated a few purchases.
“We’ve been trying to grow the U.S. fan base for the club, so this seemed like the perfect vehicle,” explained Paul Hourigan, RSV partner and Bournemouth’s TST assistant coach. “I thought, ‘What better way than to get our other portfolio companies involved?’”
The coaching staff also featured some star power: longtime USMNT striker Jozy Altidore, who brought tools from his tech-forward training facility Sogility to the tournament. Altidore’s connection to Bournemouth? His friendship with Hollywood star Michael B. Jordan, a co-investor through the Black Knight Football Club holding company.
Unfortunately for the Cherries, all those sensors and data points couldn’t help them escape the group stage of the 7-a-side tournament. No million-dollar payday for this seaside club – but hey, there’s always next year.
Insideworldfootball.com
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