Sport wearables start-up PlayerData has partnered with the Homeless World Cup Foundation to score big for tech at this year’s tournament.
Now in its 16th year, the football tournament takes place in Mexico City this November, specifically for people affected by homelessness.
More than 500 players from over 40 countries will play 400 games across four purpose-built pitches, to a crowd of 200,000 spectators in Mexico’s capital and millions more online.
PlayerData’s tracking system will wirelessly send data on every player back to a central system so that players and coaches can learn from it. The data will also be updated to the event’s tournament site in real time.
The company was founded in 2015 by former Edinburgh University computer science graduates Roy Hotrabhvanon (CEO) – who is also a former international archer – and Hayden Ball (CTO).
Three years later its ‘PlayerData EDGE’ product, which provides high-quality data on biometrics, performance and technique for individuals and teams, is in final beta testing.
Aimed at high value sports including football, cycling and golf, the company aims to expand the sectors it is available in, initially offering its products to clubs and then directly to consumers.
Investors include company chairman Mike Welch and his investment advisory firm Full Circle Partners, alongside Sir Terry Leahy.
“We’ve got big plans to make a real impact in wearable tech, in sports to begin with but we’re already examining other markets,” said Hotrabhvanon.
“It’s an exciting time for the team and our investors and as we close in on the end of beta testing with paying clients, and it’s an honour and privilege to be partnering with such a well-respected global tournament as the Homeless World Cup.”
“We are really excited to be partnering with PlayerData,” said Homeless World Cup Foundation co-founder Mel Young.
“Their tech will offer our teams and fans an insight into teams’ performances like never before and I believe that this is the first of many exciting collaborations with them. We look forward to seeing the devices in action.”
PlayerData received early stage support from the Royal Society of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Innovation and Scottish Enterprise.