There is plenty to consider when designing a sports facility, from design and technology elements that include audiovisual integration to software and analytics infrastructure. Moving from a Division 1 school to a Division 3 school impacts design, budget, space size, and athletic importance can all effect the end design.
Designers must ask themselves:
- Will the space be utilized for recruitment purposes?
- Will the space serve student athletes only or the entire student body?
- Are we creating a game day experience for fans or an excellent game day process for the team?
Answers to these questions cover a wide range as we move along the spectrum of the Division 1 to Division 3 athletic experience.
In a Division 3 environment, sports complexes will typically include AV technology that is tailored towards athletic events and training. You may find video display boards for game information, sounds systems for announcements and music, and possibly video analysis systems for coaches and players to review performance. It’s common for these facilities to integrate sports lighting systems and scoreboard controls into their design as well.
Division 1 facilities are more open to having the most advanced technology available, particularly in areas like coaching and player development. Tech options can include high-resolution video walls for detailed analysis, video replay, advanced sound systems for immersive training experiences, and a specialized equipment for sports science research. Many universities integrate performance tracking systems into their facilities as well. This technology will also be showcased in athlete locker rooms, setting the tone for at-home game days and recruitment events.
Division 3 complexes may have less extensive network infrastructure, but they still require high-quality, reliable connectivity for university operations and fan engagement. When designing for these facilities, we want to take into consideration guest Wi-Fi for spectators and standard campus Wi-Fi for coaches and staff.
Athletic facilities are a hub for the community, and these establishments want to ensure their network equipment supports live video streaming for games and events. Network reliability and ease of management are key factors, as these facilities may not have dedicated IT staff on-site.
Larger facilities often have an advanced network infrastructure to support a variety of needs. In addition to high-speed wireless internet connection, we will also implement a reliable wired connection system for sports analytics equipment and video analysis systems.
These facilities may also have dedicated equipment for live streaming of games and events, as well as space for athlete performance monitoring and sports science research.
Acoustics design for smaller facilities is geared towards enhancing the spectator experience during games and events. In a gymnasium, this may involve controlling sound reflections to improve clarity of announcements and music, as well as minimizing noise from the surrounding environment. Sound reinforcement systems may be used to distribute sound evenly throughout the seating areas.
Acoustics solutions throughout Division 1 athletic facilities is often more complex, as these spaces may be more specialized to one sport. Acoustics play a crucial role in enhancing athlete performance and ensuring clear communication among coaches and players. Specialized acoustics treatments may be used in areas such as practice courts or training facilities to optimize sound quality.
Security in smaller athletic centers may have similar security measures to a typical campus recreation buildings but tailored to the needs of sports events and facilities. Access control may be more focused on securing locker rooms, equipment storage areas, and restricted areas within the complex. Surveillance cameras might be used to monitor playing fields, seating areas, and parking lots during events.
Larger facilities often have more advanced physical security measures due to the high-profile nature of collegiate athletics. Facilities will place a large focus on access control systems, with biometric systems or other high-security measures in place.
Surveillance systems are extensive, covering all areas of the facility, including practice fields and athlete training areas. Emergency response plans are comprehensive, with staff trained for various scenarios, including crowd control during large events.
Each one of these factors are crucial to a well-functioning college sports complex. While there are several differences in technology and features throughout different divisions, a well-designed facility could be the differentiator in a team’s success.
Emergency response plans are crucial, with staff trained to handle emergencies specific to sports facilities.
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