The RefCam system, developed by Riedel Communications, was utilized for the first time in a Bundesliga soccer match between Eintracht Frankfurt and VfL Wolfsburg.
Wearing the system, referee Daniel Schlager provided a unique perspective of the game, offering fans and viewers an intimate look into the game dynamics and the challenges referees face on the field. This initiative, marking a first for the Bundesliga, aims to enhance the viewing experience by providing a new angle of the game’s action directly from the referee’s viewpoint.
Collaboration for Innovation: The In-YS Venture
The creation of the RefCam system was a collaborative effort between Riedel Communications and referees Patrick Kessel and Nicolas Winter under the joint venture named In-YS (In Your Shoes). This partnership ensured the system was designed with an understanding of the practical needs and concerns of referees regarding wearable technology. Nicolas Winter, Co-Founder and Managing Director of In-YS, emphasized that the goal was not to alter the game but to offer new perspectives and increase the transparency and appreciation of referees’ work.
Features and Benefits of the RefCam System
The RefCam system includes a lightweight, head-mounted camera connected to a transmission system, designed to be as unobtrusive as possible for the wearer. With the entire setup weighing just 6 grams, it ensures minimal impact on the referee’s performance. The system, which can either record or broadcast live footage, also includes privacy protections such as a mute and shutdown feature for the microphone. The live debut of RefCam was part of a 30-minute show titled “Referees Mic’d up – Bundesliga,” which aired on March 12, offering insights into soccer officiating to both national and international audiences.
Regulatory Approval and Future Prospects
The use of the RefCam system received approval from the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and was coordinated closely with DFB, DFL, and the clubs involved. Riedel Communications aims to review the performance of the RefCam system in collaboration with Bundesliga officials to optimize it for future applications. This innovative system is part of Riedel’s Managed Technology division, known for delivering custom-engineered technologies and comprehensive support, demonstrating Riedel’s ongoing commitment to advancing sports broadcasting technology.
Jan Schaffner, Program Manager at Riedel Communications, stated that RefCam represents a significant advancement in live sports broadcasting, promising to transform fan engagement with sports and solidifying Riedel’s position as a leader in communication and broadcasting technology.
News source: https://www.riedel.net/en/
