VR is changing the GAME, Literally
VR is changing the GAME, Literally
By: Yadiel Novo-Duran, Micah Chavarria, & Khalil Brown
Athletes are training with it, fans are watching through it, and it’s all happening now, everywhere from living rooms to locker rooms. As the technology grows, the question isn’t if sports will change, but how far VR will take them.
Imagine being able to sit courtside at a sold-out game or stand in the batter’s box facing a professional pitcher — all without leaving your house. Virtual reality (VR) is quickly changing how fans watch sports and how athletes prepare to play.
“I usually watch basketball on television,” said Sahin Rodriguez, a high school student. “But I feel like I would be interested [in VR], because it would be a different look, and I feel like it’d be more interesting.”
As VR technology becomes more advanced, some sports leagues and platforms are experimenting with offering fans a more immersive viewing experience. While not everyone has tried it yet, the potential is starting to grab people’s attention.
“Say a game is sold out or something,” said Izzy, another student. “I can watch it on VR, and it’ll feel like I’m actually there.”
The technology doesn’t just benefit fans. VR is also being used in training, especially in sports like baseball. Professional players are using simulations to practice without being on the field.
“I heard about it being used in baseball,” said Justin Beckett. “Batters use it to kind of get a feel for the pitcher and make it easier to get a hit off of them.”
IMG_4457.MOVAs interest grows, fans like Justin say they’d even consider switching from regular TV to VR just for the added realism.
“I’ll switch to VR over TV just so I can see the little things, like what they do during the commercial breaks and stuff like that,” he said. “It gives a more in-depth feel, like I’m playing with them.”
With athletes and fans both finding new uses for the technology, VR is shaping up to be more than just a trend — it could be the future of sports.
“It’s like you’re not just watching the game,” said Sahin Rodriguez. “You’re living it.”
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