mondo | stadia - Issue 09

ALLIANZ ARENA

KING POWER STADIUM

JUAN IRAOLA

TURF & FLOORING FOCUS

Zumtobel and L-Acoustics provide new lighting and audio systems at FC Bayern Munich’s stadium.

Leicester City’s home ground has undergone extensive upgrades to its audio, visual and lighting setup.

Real Sociedad’s Head of Digital Transformation discusses Reale Arena and the Sport Innovation Alliance.

Impressive projects and innovative products from the world of turf and flooring are covered in our latest focus.

ISSUE 09 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2019/20

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

IISSUE 09 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2019/20 WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

Bukit Jalil National Stadium – Kuala Lumpur, MY

RAPID ROI

SOUND SOLUTION FOR SPORTS VENUES

L-Acoustics systems are renowned for their uniform, full-range, natural sound. Our flexible, lightweight systems project crystal clear sound onto your audience. From top to bottom, your fans will hear great sound that puts them into the heart of your sports action. Their flexibility allows your venue to alternate seating configurations and event types and still achieve flawless sound. Let our systems help you achieve maximum ROI for your sports venue. l-acoustics.com

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20/05/2019 15:23:12

09 WELCOME

ike most in the industry, we’ve been keeping a close eye on the development of Chase Center - and we’re delighted to include Golden State Warriors’ new home as our cover story in this issue. From the largest centrehung display in the NBA through to its fully connected experience, it is truly a game-changing venue - and one that we’re sure to see develop even further over the years. Turn to page 34 for The Full Pitch feature.

Elsewhere, we’ve covered the state-of-the-art audio and lighting systems that have been installed at Allianz Arena, as well as Creative Technology’s impressive work on the IAAF World Athletics Championships in Doha.

We also visited Riedel’s Remote Operations Center in Wuppertal, with the company showing us how they keep Bundesliga’s VAR running smoothly with clear communications.

For this issue, we also spoke to Juan Iraola, the Head of Digital Transformation & Technology at Real Sociedad. He updated us on the ongoing work at the club’s Reale Arena, as well as the exciting new Sport Innovation Alliance, which has seen ten football clubs join forces to share ideas in terms of technology and sponsorships.

A reminder that tickets for our AGORA conference at ISE in Amsterdam are on sale now. We’ve got an incredible line-up of speakers, so get your tickets here: www.mondostadia-agora.com/tickets Finally, all that’s left for me to say is Merry Christmas and Happy New Year - see you all in 2020!

L

Sam Hughes Editor

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ALLIANZ ARENA

KING POWER STADIUM

JUAN IRAOLA

TURF & FLOORING FOCUS

Zumtobel and L-Acoustics provide new lighting and audio systems at FC Bayern Munich’s stadium.

Leicester City’s home ground has undergone extensive upgrades to its audio, visual and lighting setup.

Real Sociedad’s Head of Digital Transformation discusses Reale Arena and the Sport Innovation Alliance.

Impressive projects and innovative products from the world of turf and flooring are covered in our latest focus.

ISSUE 09 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2019/20

09 INSIDE…

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

IISSUE 09 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2019/20 WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

Cover image courtesy of Jason O’Rear / Chase Center.

Editor Sam Hughes s.hughes@mondiale.co.uk

Deputy Editor Emma Bilardi e.bilardi@mondiale.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Emma Davidson e.davidson@mondiale.co.uk

Digital Editorial Assistant James Robertson j.robertson@mondiale.co.uk

Senior Account Manager Jamie Dixon j.dixon@mondiale.co.uk

Account Manager Laura Iles l.iles@mondiale.co.uk

TEAM TALK

VENUE FOCUS

006 Florent Coulon, Legends International

AUDIO

Design & Production Zoe Willcox z.willcox@mondiale.co.uk

076 Croke Park | Dublin, Ireland

080 Roland-Garros Stadium | Paris, France

DRAWING BOARD

084 Hanazono Rugby Stadium | Higashiosaka, Japan

Mel Capper

010 Kallang Alive | Kallang, Singapore

088 Mohammed V Stadium | Casablanca, Morocco

m.capper@mondiale.co.uk

012 UMMC Arena | Ekaterinburg, Russia

BROADCAST

014 The Cathedral | Milan, Italy

092 Esports Stadium Arlington | Texas, USA

Managing Editor Rachael Rogerson-Thorley

096 Pixellot | ESPN Partnership | USA

r.rogerson-thorley@mondiale.co.uk

CEO Justin Gawne

LIGHTING

KICK OFF

100 Angers IceParc | Angers, France

016 Turf & Flooring

102 2019 League of Legends World Championships | Paris, France

j.gawne@mondiale.co.uk

COMMUNICATIONS

Finance Director Amanda Giles

INTERVIEW

104 Riedel Remote Operations Center | Wuppertal,

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

026 Juan Iraola, Real Sociedad | Sport Innovation

Germany

Alliance

ARCHITECTURE

Credit Control

110 Wuyuanhe Stadium | Haikou, China

ar@mondiale.co.uk

Group Chairman Damian Walsh

THE FULL PITCH

EXTRA TIME

034 Chase Center | San Francisco, USA

114 FSB 2019 Report

MONDO | STADIA is published by Mondiale Media Limited, Strawberry Studios, Watson Square, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 161 476 8340

050 Allianz Arena | Munich, Germany

116 ISE Preview

058 King Power Stadium | Leicester, England

120 Sound of Tottenham Hotspur | JBL Pro

064 IAAF World Athletics Championships | Doha,

122 Product Launch | MAG Audio

Qatar

124 NEXO 125 AEON LED

Printed By Buxton Press WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

126 soft-LED 128 Event Diary 130 Full Time

FLORENT COULON, LEGENDS INTERNATIONAL How can venues in Europe attract and engage fans like the US?

Images: Legends International an engagement has become an

There is a different culture to the way that

advancements.

important topic for sports teams,

sport is consumed in the US compared to

Some clubs that play in stadia were built over

leagues, and federations in recent

Europe, with entertainment being ingrained

a century ago, and deploying such technology

years.

in American sport and the overall experience

is simply not feasible, so they must look to

Clubs in particular are beginning to appreciate

being as important as the end result.

other monetisable features in the ground.

the monetisation opportunities that exist when

The scale of sporting events in the US also

It is about knowing your building and

fans are placed at the core of the sporting

tends to be larger than Europe, with everything

maximising every possible revenue opportunity

action rather than merely witnessing the event

about the matchday being monetised wherever

– whether that is a gaming or eSports area,

as spectators.

possible.

merchandise booth, or mobile bar unit –

The modern sports fan has changed over the

Technological advancements tend to be rolled

anything that contributes to the fan experience

years and clubs understand the importance

out in their infancy in the US, a general trend

and doesn’t require huge expenditure.

of providing an experience as part of the

that applies to sport as it would to any other

Another trend that we are seeing in European

matchday away from just offering high-quality

sector.

stadia that stems from the US, is the improved

seats.

One such trend on the rise is 5G, with

offering of seating options, with improved

The challenge for teams and stadium owners is

approximately half of the NFL teams currently

facilities and more diverse experiences in

to diversify and build value in the experience

deploying the technology in some capacity,

general admission areas.

they provide through food and beverage,

though it remains in the early stages of

Premium experiences no longer relate purely

technology and merchandising.

development.

to VIP and hospitality tickets, with reserved

To do that, they need to know their fans and

Some European clubs have become early

seating, food and beverage opportunities,

their audiences, and identify what they are

adopters of 5G, with German Bundesliga

fast track queues and parking introduced for

expecting. It’s something that football clubs in

outfit VfL Wolfsburg already in the process of

regular fans.

particular are starting to embrace so they can

trialling their own 5G app, that will provide

That is not to say there have not been

provide services that drive loyalty and make

fans with in-game features such as enhanced

advancements in the corporate hospitality

sure people come back to the venues.

match statistics and player performance data.

offering for fans, with the introduction of

At the heart of any matchday experience is the

This new technological wave, alongside the

features like The Tunnel Club and Loge Boxes

stadium or arena, and European venue owners

likes of virtual reality (VR) and augmented

proving popular.

are looking to the examples set by their US

reality (AR) will undoubtedly help clubs to

Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have

counterparts to ensure fans arrive earlier and

better engage with their fans, but not all clubs

replicated The Tunnel Club, which gives fans

stay later.

have the existing facilities to deal with such

backstage access to see the players as they

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TEAM TALK

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TEAM TALK

008

prepare for the match.

merchandising opportunities and we are

Owners are also wary of the rights holders

Pitch-level VIP seating is also featured in

seeing sponsors getting involved and aligning

and over-the-top platforms that they are

some US stadia, with the under-construction

their brands with the concept.

competing with, and understand the need to

Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas being the latest

We are seeing this translate to Europe in the

be more creative to motivate people to buy

to announce they will be building a series of

proliferation of fanzones at major sporting

tickets.

additional suites on the ground floor.

events, though it may be some time until this

With the NFL hosting another four regular

These concepts already exist at the AT&T

becomes an established element of European

season matches in London earlier this year,

Stadium in Texas and the Banc of California

sporting culture.

and a large crossover of fans that would also

stadium in Los Angeles, and are being included

The fragmented nature of US sports, with

regularly attend UK sporting events, the

in the Allegiant Stadium to offer an improved

several breaks in play across the NFL, NBA and

culture is gradually shifting.

and more diverse range of options to meet

MLB, does make it easier to engage with fans

Owners are looking at either improving

the needs of more educated and demanding

during these quieter times than is possible at a

existing venues to provide additional revenue

customers.

football match.

streams or considering new builds that could

Another fan engagement activation that is

And there is an education process to be had

allow them to bring in more ticketed events

anchored with sports in the US is the concept

with many sports fans in the UK and Europe

and non-matchday activities.

of tailgating, with fans hosting parties in the

being used to having a pre-match pie and

The US will continue to pave the way when it

vicinity of stadia on matchdays.

pint before the game and spending half-time

comes to fan engagement, but Europe is no

It provides them with food, beverage and

chatting to their mates about it.

longer lagging too far behind.

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KALLANG ALIVE Kallang, Singapore

Renderings: Pomeroy Studio omeroy Studio has collaborated with national sporting body, Sport Singapore, to create an 89-hectare sports and recreation-oriented masterplan in Singapore. It is envisaged to be one of the world’s most sustainable sport and recreation precincts. The designers and thought leaders of sustainable-built environments are the lead masterplanner, in collaboration with global infrastructure and transport engineers, Arup.

The masterplan will contain a host of sport and entertainment related facilities, including a state- of-the-art football hub and a tennis centre for the local community, as well as international tournaments. There will also be a youth hub, where proposals for a velodrome, speed climbing facilities and BMX sport are being considered. The Kallang Theatre is also planned to be redeveloped into an integrated sport, entertainment and lifestyle centre. The waterfront along Jalan Benaan Kapal is envisaged to become a green community space. Lastly, another project that is being explored is the Alive Gateway and Loop. The Loop seeks to trace the precinct’s circular airfield heritage, and link the key attractions within the precinct by a walking and cycling path that interfaces with Singapore’s Park Connector Network.

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In-line with Singapore’s drive to be both a garden city and a carlite smart nation, the masterplan integrates a vibrant people’s park that is composed of foliated waterfront boardwalks, wetlands, and lush parklands, that embraces nature’s environmental benefits of temperature reduction, carbon sponge, and storm water attenuation.

The plan to integrate the pedestrian/cycle/e- scooter-friendly loop into these green open spaces further provides seamless mobility to and from the various venues and beyond. It also seeks to cultivate the use of smart green technology to enhance user experience. For example, green technologies that comfort control the temperature and humidity of walking and cycling are being explored. Such technologies could be coupled with solar power and kinetic pressure pads in the floor to generate clean energy. Digitally-interactive light and art installations that tell a tale of both Singapore’s culture and sporting heritage seek to enhance the experience for residents, visitors, and tourists alike.

Works are currently underway with the Kallang Football Hub being the first to be completed by next year.

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UMMC ARENA Yekaterinburg, Russia Renderings: HPP Architects he foundation stone for the new multifunctional arena in Yekaterinburg, which is being built according to plans by HPP Architects, has recently been laid.

The client, Ural Mining Metallurgical Company (UMMC), awarded the contract to HPP together with the city of Ural last year. The UMMC Arena will be the new home of ice hockey team, Awtomobilist Ekaterinburg, and the women’s basketball club, UMMC Ekaterinburg. Designed as a multifunctional arena, the building meets international competition standards and is also the venue for a variety of other sports, including hockey, basketball, volleyball, figure skating and boxing as well as hosting major international events.

The grandstands and playing field adapt flexibly to the various uses and provide the city with new opportunities in the sports and event business. The building site is located in the heart of the city on the revitalised banks of the Isset River. The city’s decision to have the arena built at this central location allows for a sustainable revitalisation of

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the quarter. A generous, raised podium defines the access level of the building and integrates the stadium into the urban development.

The translucent façade shell of horizontal metal bars and the glass access floor, open the arena to the outside and allow the building to be illuminated at night. Below it, the podium accommodates all the necessary security equipment, parking spaces and delivery as well as a central visitors’ entrance, which can be used for major events.

HPP Architects have been commissioned with the concept and schematic design stages for the architecture and interior design of the new arena. After completion of the groundwork, construction of the 15,000-seat building will begin on schedule. “We are delighted about this milestone in the implementation of the new urban centre of Yekaterinburg,” said Antonino Vultaggio, HPP partner in charge.

The Ekaterinburg multifunctional arena has already been chosen as the venue for the biennial Universiade, the students’ World Sports Games, in 2023.

DRAWING BOARD

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THE CATHEDRAL Milan, Italy

Renderings: Populous

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lobal architectural design firm, Populous, revealed its competition bid for the new Milano Stadium which, it is anticipated, will replace the San Siro as the home of the two legendary clubs of AC Milan and FC Internazionale Milan, as well as provide a new city centre venue for the citizens of Milan to come together.

Populous’ design, known as ‘The Cathedral’, will create a global icon for Milan that is true to its people and honours its heritage. It draws inspiration from two of Milan’s most iconic buildings: the Duomo and the Galleria, creating a stadium that could not be found in any other city or mistaken for any other stadium in the world. It will be a stadium that sets new standards for fan experience, stadium atmosphere and community engagement.

Designed to create a unique home and distinct experience for the two clubs, the stadium features bespoke installations that dramatically change the appearance of the architecture and incorporate the clubs’ unique identities into the building fabric.

For Inter Milan, a coiled viper of blue light wraps itself around the stadium; while for AC Milan, the vertical buttresses glow a smouldering red emanating from the depths of the building. Two home changing rooms and two megastores – one for each club – allow each club to unreservedly call the stadium their own.

The stadium’s bespoke seating bowl will be the most intimate in Europe, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before and creating an unforgettable atmosphere with great acoustical design.

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A sunlit galleria encircles the stadium enveloped by an elegant glass façade, providing a democratic space for all supporters and the citizens of Milan to enjoy a wide-ranging offer of food and beverage outlets inspired by the world-renowned food culture of the city.

The Cathedral forms a centrepiece for a new San Siro District; a sustainable 365-days-a-year sports and entertainment destination for the fans, the community, and visitors to the city. It will be the most sustainable football stadium in Europe, with photovoltaic roof panels to generate electricity and rainwater harvesting to minimise water use, surrounded by 22-acres of green space, which reduces water runoff.

The interior spaces are naturally ventilated and passively heated and cooled, with the entire district connected to a central heating and cooling system.

DRAWING BOARD

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KICK OFF | TURF & FLOORING A closer look at products and projects from the world of turf and flooring.

THE CHÉRON STADIUM MONDO The Chéron Stadium in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés is Val-de-Marne’s definitive sports venue. It plays host not only to the Lusitanos Saint-Maur men’s soccer club, VGA Saint-Maur women’s club and professional runners, but also a large number of youth associations, who use it for recreational sports and activities.

Inaugurated in 1922, the stadium was renamed after its creator, Adolphe Chéron, in 1952. It has undergone various modifications since opening, including the installation of a synthetic track in 1974. Today, it features a new artificial turf soccer field and a Sportflex Super X 720 track created by Mondo, which is made from fabricated rubber and has been expanded from four lanes to six. With an expected lifespan of more than 10 years, it can be used seven days a week by professional and amateur athletes.

The project to renovate the Chéron Stadium had two goals: restructure the facility to offer soccer clubs a venue that meets the standards for high-level competitions and modernise the sports facilities for everyone’s benefit.

For this reason, to complete the restructuring of the soccer field and track, a new locker room was constructed in the northeast corner of the site that is built into the slope and covered by trees, offering the soccer players a more welcoming environment. The locker rooms and stands that already existed at the venue’s south end were renovated as well, making the structure accessible for people with disabilities.

“We aimed to respect the spirit of the venue’s rich history, integrating all of the project’s elements in a setting with abundant natural beauty, with a wealth of trees,” said Gilles Beguin, SCP BEGUIN & MACCHINI, Head of the stadium project.

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however, until last year, the venue’s size prevented the installation of a six-lane track and the ability to host major national and international competitions - a sore spot for a stadium in which no fewer than five world records had been set over the decades, including in the 3,000-metre race, 5,000-metres, 110-metre hurdles and pole vault.

“The first Chéron stadium renovation project attracted a great deal of criticism,” Olivier Strobel, Head of the Chéron Stadium Facilities Project, said.

“The expansion of the soccer field at the centre of the ring, which had a very tight footprint, caused problems in maintaining the historic track’s six lanes and forced the designer to convert it to a four-lane track, which prevented it from hosting national and international meets. Our latest renovation, therefore, incorporated peripheral support structures that allowed us to increase the number of running lanes to six.”

Because of the stadium’s importance and historic character - and because of its intended use as a venue for professional competitions and amateur and student-athletes - the French Football and Athletics Federations granted exemptions so that its soccer field and track could both be approved by the governing bodies.

The town has reacquired its sports hub, now completely renovated and ready to welcome thousands of enthusiastic professional and amateur sports fans from all over the region. www.mondoworldwide.com

KICK OFF

RACECOURSE STADIUM ROSARIO FORBEX

Forbex was chosen as the supplier of the synthetic turf rugby pitch at the Racecourse Stadium in Rosario, Argentina for the World Rugby Under 20s Championship 2019. Forbex worked closely with World Rugby, the Argentina Rugby Union, and WR-accredited laboratories to design the perfect playing surface for this tournament. As is the case for any rugby pitch, the main concern for Forbex was player safety. To ensure a safe playing environment for the athletes, Forbex developed a system, which includes a pre-fabricated shock pad that guarantees excellent shock absorption without creating a surface that is too soft, which can result in increased fatigue and a slower pace of play. With the Championship taking place over various venues, it was possible for World Rugby to study injury rates on the natural turf venues and the Forbex synthetic turf pitch. The results of the study found a lower incidence of player injury on the Forbex pitch compared with the other venues. Moreover, the innovative construction design ensured that the pitch would be able to be used under any weather conditions, allowing the Racecourse Stadium to be the only venue that did not suffer any delays or cancellations due to flooding of the pitch. www.forbex.com

MICRO 2 SERIES DEFENDER - ADAM HALL GROUP Following the launch of the MICRO cable protector series this year, Defender is now doubling the stakes: the new MICRO 2 series provides space for two cable runs and ensures even better protection for people and cables with its newly developed 3-D LaserGrip surface.

Produced from over 90% recyclable materials, the MICRO 2 cable protectors stand out thanks to their environmental sustainability, featuring a re-engineered, ergonomic design.

The larger and more spacious an area, the higher the safety requirements are for both people and materials. Built to withstand up to two tonnes per 7.8-inch by 7.8-inch, its two 1.4-inch by 1.2inch cable runs protect power cables and water hoses from external influences. A maximum level of grip and slip resistance is guaranteed by the innovative LaserGrip surface, which is equipped with a special ergonomic design and surface structure to reduce the risk of an entire cable protector line accidentally moving out of place.

From shredding to granulation, 90% of Defender materials are recycled in-house, and the same goes for the new MICRO 2 series too. Since the whole process is monitored in-house, the type and origin of the individual materials can be traced at all times, which means exclusive proof that everything has been sourced from certified companies in Germany can always be provided. Defender officially recycles materials from Bayer, BASF, and DOW Chemical and as such plays an important role in the sustainable reutilisation of granulate.

Defender cable protectors and ramps are DEKRA certified (DIN 31000, EN 61537), comply with fire protection class B2 (DIN 4102, B1 also available) and meet the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive. www.adamhall.com www.smart-arena.com

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KICK OFF

CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY SPORTS TURF MANAGERS ASSOCIATION (STMA) Coming from a farming background, and being surrounded by agriculture his whole life, Chris Webb always knew he wanted a career free from the confines of a cubicle. He yearned to be outdoors, and Chris says it was when he first picked up a golf club that he was instantly drawn towards the sports field industry.

“When you play golf, you see all the turfgrass management unfolding around you, and I wanted to be part of that,” Chris said. “I then found out very quickly that I didn’t want to do golf course management, and my first opportunity with the Washington Nationals came along.”

Fast-forward 12 years, and Chris is the Associate Director of Grounds at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Virginia. The Sports Turf Managers Association (STMA) recently announced that Chris and his team earned the 2019 STMA College Soccer Field of the Year award. In 2018, he and his staff won it for the softball field, highlighting the versatility and expertise of Chris and his crew.

Along with Chris, ten other sports field managers and their facilities were selected for the Field of the Year award in a variety of categories. Winners were selected from the professional ranks to schools and parks and included Louisville Slugger Field, home of the Louisville Bats, Rio Tinto Stadium, home to Real Salt Lake and Davis Wade Stadium at Mississippi State among others.

“Each of the natural grass facilities selected embodies the level of excellence that sports field managers around the country strive for every day,” said Kim Heck, CAE, CEO of STMA. “Chris is a true example of professionalism and represents the unwavering commitment of STMA members, to field safety and playability.”

At Virginia Tech, Chris earned his degree in crop and soil environmental science with a focus in horticulture, turfgrass management and landscape contracting. When he graduated and entered the workforce in 2006, he immediately became a member of the STMA, and since has risen to Vice President of the association’s Virginia chapter. The networking that comes with being a part of the STMA has helped Chris advance his career by learning from fellow members.

“We all do the exact same thing, essentially, but we all view it from a different lens and take different routes to the same spot,” said Chris. “So, when I have a problem, I know that I can call my counterpart whether they are in North Carolina or the other side of Virginia, or Minnesota and get advice about how 018

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they handle this specific issue.

“You don’t have to ever learn anything on your own. There is a whole network of people out there who can help you, and help you make a successful decision that you know you will be confident in.”

Through his education and experience as a Sports Field Manager, Chris acknowledges there are roles and responsibilities of the job that the public may not know. One that he holds in the highest regard is environmental stewardship. As a part of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, Chris and his team go to great lengths to ensure that they provide CNU athletes, and community, with a safe, aesthetically pleasing playing surface without any negative impact on the bay.

“We employ multiple best management practices such as covering drains and blowing hard surfaces when we fertilise,” said Chris. “We soil test regularly and use that information to guide our nutrient management plan so that we provide the correct nutrients the turfgrass needs in the right amounts at the right time of year. It is our job as turfgrass management professionals to lead by example and show that you can have high-quality turfgrass and grounds without any adverse effect on our local ecosystems.”

Despite all the success since taking over the athletic fields, Chris and his team are constantly looking to improve their practices to provide an even safer product for CNU athletes, while keeping the environmental ramifications top of mind. As he looks ahead to 2020, Chris and the team will look to treat for mole crickets and grubs and apply more aeration throughout the year, among other changes.

While working in the sports field management industry and especially on different sporting fields comes with constantly changing circumstances, an uncompromising level of excellence is one constant that Chris and his team have brought to Christopher Newport University. Whether 2020 brings more recognition remains to be seen, but one thing remains certain, that coaches, athletes and fans of the CNU Captains will reap the benefits of Chris and his team’s efforts for years to come. www.stma.org

ST GEORGE’S PARK | CARROW ROAD HARROD SPORT Innovative hardware, software and connected technology has brought efficiencies and savings to most businesses, and sport is no different. There is currently wide coverage of how live data is impacting sport, but less focus on how technology is affecting the role of groundsmen.

Harrod Sport works closely with many of the people who build and maintain the best pitches and grounds in the world - from bespoke shelters, goals and posts to high-quality off-the-shelf solutions. Harrod Sport wanted to dig deeper into the world of the groundsmen to find out how technology is changing the role, what innovations are new or forthcoming, and whether technology will ultimately replace them altogether.

To find out, Harrod Sports spoke to Gary Kemp, Head Groundsman at Norwich City FC and Scott Brooks, Head of Grounds & Estates at St George’s Park the FA’s national football centre. Gary has been a groundsman for more than 30 years, watching technology affect almost every aspect of his profession.

“Norwich City isn’t even up there with the larger clubs and we have lighting systems and heating systems that can all be operated from a phone. The most indispensable piece of technology is the irrigation system. Years ago we’d have had to do it manually but now we can set it up to run for 30 seconds 10 times a day. It certainly makes life easier,” Gary said.

A key innovation has been the Desso Grassmaster, a pitch that uses plastic fibres to reinforce natural grass. Arriving on the market around 20 years ago, some aspects of it have changed, but the core technology remains the same.

“The first ones used to be rock hard,” Gary recalled. “But they’ve brought in new technology to tackle that.”

“Full synthetics have come on leaps and bounds in the last five-10 years.

They’re well constructed to FIFA recommendations,” said Scott. “We’ve got them at the training ground and they’re a huge asset. That said, all players prefer to play on grass. I can’t see natural grass disappearing. Technology will help, but we’ll never move away from natural grass.”

Scott added: “There has been a massive increase in the amount of data that gets collected from all pitches. Performance testing, readings for moisture and even checking the electroconductivity of a pitch to see what you’re lacking in terms of nutrients.

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water that passes through the profile at different depths. This is so we can manipulate the programme of irrigation to improve the pitch’s performance.

“All this data also means we can get an idea of what’s going to happen a few days before it does. And it’s all done on a computer screen without having to look at the pitch. The new breed of groundsmen are using data, not just as a test of their performance, but to benchmark for future performance.

Scott admitted: “Automation is massive. We’re quite close to having an automated mowing system.”

“Today there are even machines where you can just hit a button and mark out a pitch,”said Gary, Scott describes the various pitches at the National Training Ground, used by the England side as well as many other teams.

“We have two hybrid fibre/sand pitches: sand-based with poly-propylene blended in. We have two Desso Grassmaster pitches, two SisGrass hybrid pitches, four synthetic pitches and some old natural pitches that are just sand soil combination.”

Gary manages the Carrow Road, Norwich City’s home ground, as well as the training ground at Colney, some four miles away. The stadium had a Desso Grassmaster installed in 2004 and the training ground also has one. It has a gravel-layer for drainage and under-soil heating.

The training ground is more of a natural soil-based pitch because, as Gary explained: “We’re looking at installing another Desso pitch at the training ground which will cost £700,000 or more because we can get a lot more wear out of them.”

Gary and Scott agree that a pitch’s lifespan is governed by how it’s maintained.

“I’ve seen 15-year-old pitches in great condition and five-year-old ones in poor condition,” said Scott. “Typically, you’d expect them to last 10 years.

“As for natural pitches, I’ve seen some that are 20 years old.”

“This pitch at Carrow Road is guaranteed for 10 seasons and we’ve had it for 14 so far. That’s all down to looking after it.

“We renovate the pitch every year which means stripping the grass. We’ve re-Dessod and re-stitched it last season so I’m looking at this for another 10 or 14 years before we have to look at replacing it.”

Again, Gary and Scott agree that costs can vary, governed by the condition of

KICK OFF

“It can cost around £20,000 to renovate a hybrid pitch,” Scott said. “A premier league club might spend £30,000.

“Then there are sundries: scarifiers and aerators. That can be upwards of £40,000 per pitch. Natural pitches are a bit cheaper because renovation is not as intensive - less nutrition and irrigation. That might cost under £30,000.”

“With the stadium and our 26-acre training ground, maintenance costs around £400-500k per year,” Gary, added: “That’s by no means a big budget.

Manchester United and Arsenal probably spend double that.”

Gary described how costs can be impacted by disease: “You can have disease issues because the pitch is unnatural - it’s enclosed. If you get a fungus infestation you’ll have to spray it a lot more and the costs go up. A spray can cost up to £800. If I have a bad season with disease it’s not unusual to spray 10 or 12 times.”

“The other challenge is to keep the pitches in the condition clubs want with the increased pressure on time due to other events. Clubs and stadiums aren’t just sports clubs any more, they’re venues for concerts and car shows and so on. That means the role of the groundsmen has changed - we need to run the pitch like a business.”

Gary and Scott can both see change coming. The Norwich City groundsman can see more clubs running multi-purpose stadiums that can easily cater for a range of events. For example, Tottenham Hotspur’s new ground allows the pitch to be removed and replaced with a venue floor for 80-90,000 people.

The opportunity for clubs to make revenue from other events is too good to miss, but how many clubs will be able to afford the development remains to be seen.

Scott can see the development of future technology such as artificial intelligence, as data and monitoring play a greater and greater role in pitch management.

“I’m helping to develop a system that monitors the usage on the artificial pitch and tells you how many players are on the pitch and where they’ve been.

It draws you a heat map and then it can tell you when you’ve had a given amount of usage and it needs to be brushed. We are now developing this for natural surfaces as well. The beauty of the system is that it teaches itself how to improve. It’s almost automatic.

“I’d also like to see a bigger shift towards sustainability and things like battery-

powered machines that can reduce noise and vibration levels.

“The key to the future of pitch technology will be a system that draws all of the data together into a single system that talks to the various parts. A system that allows you to book a pitch, use a pitch and then tell us what we need to do to maintain that pitch and how long it needs to rest for - how long will be needed to repair it. A pitch that looks after itself.”

Gary and Scott agree that technology will continue to impact pitches, and while the day-to-day activity of groundsmen may change, the core responsibility for building and maintaining the best possible pitch will not.

Neither are worried about their jobs.

“New technology will be introduced to help people look after the pitch, but there will always need to be someone there to manage it,” said Gary.

“You have to embrace technology,” added Scott. “In my role, the more data I can gather without having to do anything the better. To get an email or alert means that one of my team doesn’t have to go out and do something - it’s a massive benefit. People worry that they’re going to be out of work, but it’s likely that technology will free them up to do something more useful. I would say that there’s still nothing like going for a walk to see what’s happened on a pitch. There will be factors that the computers don’t know to look at or sense what a human can see. If a groundsman thinks he can sit in his office and do his job he’s sadly mistaken.”

Gary cautioned that:“the only potential issue with all this remote technology is that it can start to encroach on your home life. If you have that technology sitting in front of you at home, you’re never going to switch it off. And is that how you want to live your life? It’s bad for your health! It’s important to find a happy medium.”

As for the role of the groundsman, Gary explained his main concern for the future: “We are increasingly restricted with the amount of time we have to prepare a pitch and do renovations due to outside events and a short closed season. This is all dictated by other departments within the club and now means that we have half the time to do our work than we had 10 years ago.” www.harrodsport.com

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KICK OFF

PROPLAY - SPORT20 SCHMITZ FOAM PRODUCTS As of January 2020, Schmitz Foam Products’ popular ProPlay-Sport20 shock and drainage pad will be replaced by a renewed version. The change is necessary to answer the demand for the product and to remain on par with the latest trends and developments.

Schmitz Foam Products introduced ProPlay-Sport20 in the early 2000s when shock pads were still considered a luxury. Thanks to its robustness and the excellent performance it delivers, ProPlay-Sport20 has since become the most used shock pad for artificial grass sport systems globally. “The industry has progressed, and the time had come to rethink the product’s concept,” Jens Ulb, Chief Commercial Officer at Schmitz Foam Products said. “ProPlay-Sport20 is produced from foams that the foam industry consider redundant. In the last few years, Schmitz Foam Products has experienced an above-average growth which exceeded the growth of the foam industry. As we foresaw that this could lead to challenges in sourcing our raw materials in the run-up to our peak-season, we decided to review the design of this front runner.”

The renewed ProPlay-Sport20 provides similar or even better sport technical performance, is equally robust and offers a drainage capacity that matches that of the original ProPlay-Sport20. “What differs is that the future edition will consist of an eight-millimetre foam layer that has exclusively been produced for Schmitz Foam Products, combined with 12mm foam flakes sourced from foams which were deemed redundant. It simply combines the best of both worlds.” No additives are involved in bonding the polyethene foam layer and polyethene foam flakes to a single sheet. It is done with thermal bonding, similar to the way Schmitz Foam Products produced the ProPlay-Sport20.

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“As this heat-bonding is done by a state-of-the-art laminator, it is impossible for the foam layers to separate spontaneously. The only time they will come apart is when Schmitz Foam Products recycles these pads by the time they no longer have any meaningful purpose.”

Over the past few months, the renewed ProPlay-Sport20 has been tested by international testing institutes. Since the shock pad comes with similar or even better sport technical characteristics, system test efforts if desired can be kept to a minimum. This ensures a smooth industry transition from the original ProPlay-Sport20 to the renewed version. Jens continued: “Due to its look you can differ between the two ProPlay-Sport20 pads, but an installer or athlete will not experience any difference with our renewed shock and drainage pads.”

The shift to the new version also means that Schmitz Foam Products will cease producing the ProPlay-MP. “The ProPlay-MP was mainly used for multi-sports courts. As the sports experience on multi-sports courts has also evolved over the years, we recommend using the ProPlay-Sport20 for this type of surface. The pad delivers superior performance and experience for these fields at a competitive price,” said Jens.

Schmitz Foam Products has already started producing the new ProPlay-Sport20. Jens is convinced that they will have sufficient stock from 2020 onwards.“With this evolution, we combine the best of both worlds with which we are ready to secure the delivery of a robust shock and drainage pad to any future-proof artificial grass system.” www.schmitzfoam.com

F1_stadia_ad_Aug2018.pdf

1

02/08/2018

16:57

The 3rd Annual

INTERNATIONAL FEDERATIONS SUMMIT is to be held in Lausanne, Switzerland on the 12 - 13 February & we’d love you to join us!

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09 INTERVIEW

“Every club involved recognises that we are living in incredible times, especially when it comes to technology and sport. There is a lot of change and even more opportunities for clubs to develop – and the Sport Innovation Alliance is at the forefront of that.”

Juan Iraola Head of Digital Transformation & Technology Real Sociedad

INTERVIEW

JUAN IRAOLA Head of Digital Transformation & Technology, Real Sociedad Can you give us some background in terms of your journey in the industry – and explain your current role at Real Sociedad?

Well, I’ve been working almost 30 years in the IT industry, helping companies from different sectors, such as manufacturing, distribution and also sport. But, for the last eight years, I’ve been solely working in the sport area, with the last four years in particular in my current role, which is leading the digital transformation of Real Sociedad.

In this sense, I am really lucky. Real Sociedad isn’t a club in the top tier – I suppose we would consider ourselves second tier in this moment. So, what this means is that they didn’t really have a lot of resources when it came to the IT setup before I started the remodelling process. The investment in the IT infrastructure was almost zero – there was nothing in terms of a strategy for it at all.

Like I said, I am really lucky as when it came to the remodelling process of the stadium, due to huge investment, the club, of course, had to

“Technology covers all areas of the club - and that’s what we mean by digital transformation.

We look at fan engagement, as well as the improvement in terms of general business processes and much more.”

strongly consider technology and activate new ideas in order to have some return on this investment. At first, it was perhaps just an initial starting point with the remodelling of the stadium, but, now, technology covers all areas of the club – and that’s what we mean by a digital transformation of the club. We look at fan engagement, as well as the improvement in terms of general business processes and much more.

a daily basis and we are obviously changing the way of doing things – but we understood that.

You mentioned that Real Sociedad is more of a tier two club – was it

The point is that we are activating new ideas and goals in different

at all difficult to implement those ideas of a digital transformation at

areas, such as selling new assets that appear in the stadium with the

first?

IPTV and also with our new mobile app. There is also new opportunities

When it comes to implementing things such as this, we are changing

with our skybox, which can be rented for events. So, of course, with a lot

everything – we are really questioning everything. So, in this sense, it

of new things, it’s not easy, but, if I look back, I think we have already

is not easy, especially for those who have been at the club a long time.

made some huge steps forward in terms of what we now use as a club on

There are things and processes that people have done for a long time, on

a daily basis.

What is the update on Reale Arena currently – are you still working on

the work is finished. So, in order to have the revenue to invest in the

different aspects of the stadium?

technology, we negotiate with the supplier for a lower cost and, in turn,

Well, the pitch and stands are completely finished, but there are

we help them to sell that solution to other clubs. When I proposed this

different areas inside the stadium itself, such as the locker room, press

idea, the suppliers were happy to start working this way. The idea was

room and the new conference room that are going to be built during the

to speak and share this with other clubs – start the dialogue about the

summer of 2020. All of these aspects are going to play an important role

technology and, if we had certain requirements in common, why not

in this new period for the club.

look for the solutions in the market together and benefit from a good purchase price?

028

So, moving onto the new Sport Innovation Alliance (SIA), can you give

The idea was from the technology point of view, but once we started to

us some insight in terms of what gave you the idea to set that up?

share this idea with clubs, we realised that there are other aspects that

The origin of this new SIA simply came from Real Sociedad talking with

are quite important to us like sponsorship deals. When it comes to tier

a technology supplier. When it comes to technology, it is a matter of

two clubs, getting new sponsorship opportunities can be difficult as we

continuous investment – you can’t just implement technology and think

are more local than international. With the SIA, it is giving the clubs

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INTERVIEW

more of an international level when it comes to sponsorship.

possible, but this is the starting point for an incredible journey.

Also, another area that we are extensively exploring is the events sides – for example, eSports activities. We can now look to organise eSports

What kind of partnerships do you think are possible for SIA?

tournaments in different stadiums. These are, more or less, the three

We have some ideas – and there is one in particular that combines

main areas that SIA is working on.

technology and sponsorship. We are going to do a prototype at Real Sociedad incorporating one of the main assets of the club in terms of

What are the aims for SIA – what do you hope to achieve from it in the

promotion and visibility – the kit. The sponsorship of the jersey hasn’t

future?

changed much over the years and getting that sponsorship is not easy

If we can dream – and why not as dreaming is free – it will be great

for the clubs. So, the idea is to change the model of that process a little

if we can get bigger in the next year to get more clubs and countries

bit. How we plan to achieve this is by stitching a tag to the kit – this tag

involved. We would love to secure some international sponsorships

will use Near Field Communication technology. The idea is that you buy

that would cover several clubs from several different countries. That

the kit, the tag is attached and you connect to the app using your user

collaboration between clubs from different countries is certainly

ID.

029

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WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

INTERVIEW

Then, once fans access the stadium while wearing the kit with the smart tag, they will receive a notification with vouchers for special offers or discounts for that particular match. They will also be entered into draws for special experiences in terms of match experience, whether that’s VIP seating or meeting a player, for example. This is a way of adding value to the kit, as well as attracting companies and brands who want to motivate fans to consume their products in the stadium.

This idea is a prototype, but the smart tag is an example of how we can define innovative technology that can then be used at other clubs in the SIA. This allows companies to do local campaigns, but also has international reach with the alliance.

In terms of the SIA, which clubs are involved currently?

Right now, along with Real Sociedad, we have Cagliari from Italy, Legia Warsaw from Poland, Feyenoord of Rotterdam, Club de Regatas Vasco da Gama in Brazil, Universidad Católica of Chile, Club Atlético Nacional of Colombia, Sporting Cristal in Perú and Club Atlético Peñarol of Uruguay,

“Every club involved recognises that we are living in incredible times, especially when it comes to technology and sport. There is a lot of change and even more opportunities for clubs to develop - and the Sport Innovation Alliance is at the forefront of that.”

as well as Al-Ittihad Jeddah Club of Saudi Arabia.

We are talking with different clubs, from Australia, from USA, from Germany, from the UK and from Portugal. Hopefully, in the next two to three months, there will be a lot more clubs joining us at the Sport

really simple idea, but fascinating in terms of how it could work in the

Innovation Alliance. Every club involved recognises that we are living

future – and it’s something that I am really looking forward to.

in incredible times, especially when it comes to technology and sport.

There is a lot of change and even more opportunities for clubs to develop – and the Sport Innovation Alliance is at the forefront of that. It’s a

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09 THE FULL PITCH

034 Chase Center | San Francisco, USA 050 Allianz Arena | Munich, Germany 058 King Power Stadium | Leicester, England 064 IAAF World Athletics Championships | Doha, Qatar

CHASE CENTER San Francisco, USA Images: Jason O’Rear / Chase Center

THE FULL PITCH

THE FULL PITCH

C

036

hase Center, the state-of-the-art sports and

Before work on the Chase Center project began, though, it’s

entertainment complex in the Mission Bay area

important to understand why the Warriors wanted to make

of San Francisco, opened its doors in September

the move back to San Francisco. MONDO | STADIA spoke

2019, giving six-time NBA championship

to Golden State Warriors’ President and Chief Operation

winning Golden State Warriors a brand new home.

Officer, Rick Welts, who explained that the project has been

The arena, which is a hub for almost 200 events each year,

in the pipeline for some time: “It actually all started seven

is the centrepiece of a whole new campus named Thrive

years ago when we were playing at Oracle Arena, which was

City; a community destination with 3.2-acres of publicly-

the oldest arena in the NBA – we played there for 47 years,

accessible plazas and open space, over 20 retail locations

so a change was certainly on the agenda.

– including a 10,000 sq ft Warriors shop – and a 925-space

“When the new ownership came in – Joe Lacob (Co-

parking structure. The project also triggered the creation of

Executive Chairman and CEO), Peter Guber (Co-Executive

a 5.5-acre park on the waterfront, set to open in the fall of

Chairman) and their partners – from the outset, their goal

2020.

was to create an arena that would provide a new financial

The Warriors returning to SF, where the team played for

foundation for the team moving forward for decades to

nine years after moving west from Philadelphia in 1962, has

come.”

delivered a truly spectacular venue and surrounding area

The plan was in place from the ownership, but why move

on the San Francisco Bay. Two public entrances flank the

from such an historic venue like Oracle Arena? Rick

arena’s east and west ends and are sheathed in curtain wall

explained further: “As I mentioned, built in the 1960s, it

expanses up to 75 ft tall. Inside, the amenity-rich facility

was the oldest in the NBA. While, for sure, it was a great

includes a myriad of features designed to enhance the fan

place for the team, it has to be said that, once you were in

experience, including 44 club suites, 32 courtside lounges,

your seat to watch a game of basketball, it lacked many of

60 theatre boxes, premium lounges and concourse areas

the amenities that we thought were absolutely necessary

replete with an array of ‘Only in the Bay Area food options,

in term of our path forward to be a consistently successful

including Oakland’s Bakesale Betty, San Francisco’s

franchise and have the economic resources to be able to

Tacolicious, Sam’s Chowder House of Half Moon Bay, the

always compete for player talent, for example.

exclusive Hot Dog Bill’s Burger Dog, Tony G’s Pizza, La

“So, the first exploration was actually in Oakland to

Cocina, Old Skool Cafe and Big Nate’s BBQ.

see if there was something in the city that we felt could

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work, but we really never got traction on that. However,

contractors and vendors, working hand-in-hand with the

after discussions with San Francisco’s Mayor, Ed Lee, we

Warriors organisation, owner’s representative, CAA ICON,

announced that the Warriors would be returning to the

and the project’s design team, which included architects,

city.”

MANICA, Kendall Heaton Associates, and Gensler.

At that time, the Warriors were provided with the Piers

In total, the Chase Center project encompasses more than 2

30-32 site on San Francisco Bay, however, there were

million sq ft of construction spread across five structures.

lots of obstacles in the way, making the project incredibly

Jim McLamb, Clark Senior Vice President and Project

complex in terms of approvals. Just as the ownership was

Director in charge of Chase Center’s construction explains

ready to begin to tackle those obstacles in a bid to build the

how the project started: “Clark and Mortenson first worked

new venue, there was a change of plan, as Rick explained

together three decades earlier on an expansion to the

further: “Just before we went ahead in trying to get

Los Angeles Convention Center in Southern California.

approval for the Piers 30-32 site, Marc Benioff, the CEO of

Understanding the significance of the Chase Center project,

Salesforce, called Joe Lacob and said he may have a solution

and the complex nature of the work, our companies

to the problem.

reunited to bring the top expertise and resources from each

“He owned 11 acres of property in the Mission Bay district

firm to bear on the project. We knew that Mortenson’s

for his new corporate headquarters. However, it was

sports construction prowess coupled with Clark’s strong

decided that the site was too small, so he offered the

relationships with the local labour unions, city leaders, and

Warriors the opportunity to buy the land. Once the sale was

the subcontracting community, provided the right mix of

negotiated – all privately financed – we pivoted from Piers

skills and experience to ensure the project’s success.”

30-32 to the new site and haven’t looked back since.”

“The joint venture team signed a contract for the project in

The completion of Chase Center marked the end of a

2015 and led an intensive 18-month-long preconstruction

successful 31-month-long construction effort – an

effort that included extensive budgeting and

operation led by a joint venture between Clark Construction

constructability exercises. During this project development

Group and Mortenson Construction. As the contractor in

period, Mortenson | Clark established its approach to build

charge of Chase Center’s construction, Mortenson | Clark

the job and identified and engaged key trade partners

managed a high-performing team comprised of more than

to review the project scope, construction approach and

260 firms, including engineers, subconsultants, trade

schedule, and begin to determine the resources needed

037

THE FULL PITCH to deliver the project. That approach remained consistent throughout the life of the job.”

The landmark venue came to fruition due to an intensive construction planning effort that began almost five years ago – and continued throughout the lifetime of the project. To ensure that Chase Center would be delivered on schedule, Mortenson | Clark harnessed advanced 4D modelling and developed an innovative construction approach that involved unravelling the arena from other structures on site and sequencing construction around its four structural concrete cores. Under this plan, each quadrant of the arena had its own schedule for concrete, steel, and enclosure, and each level had its own schedule for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and finish work. This approach ensured all levels of a quadrant were progressing at the same time and allowed the project to advance at the quickest rate possible.

“Mortenson | Clark amassed a team of top industry trade partners to deliver the project. In total, 9,800 individuals from 260 companies, including engineering firms, subconsultants, trade contractors, and vendors, contributed to the construction effort,” added Jim. “We also worked to ensure that Chase Center represented a significant opportunity for small businesses. The team awarded more than $245 million in contracts to small business enterprises, creating life-changing opportunities for nearly 90 small firms to gain valuable experience on the job.”

Chase Center’s aggressive schedule required crews to place as much as $2.8 million of work daily at peak construction.

Despite a demanding timeline, and a diverse workforce that included as many as 1,500 craftworkers on site at one time, Mortenson | Clark maintained a stellar safety record, demonstrated by a recordable incident rate six times below the industry average.

“From its iconic design to its premium amenities and finishes, the arena is really in a class of its own. Clark and Mortenson are incredibly proud to have partnered with a world-class organisation like the Golden State Warriors to help construct this one-of-a-kind destination for sports and entertainment in San Francisco. We are equally proud that we were able to deliver the mammoth development with date certainty and in the safest manner possible,” said Jim. “In addition to taking sports and entertainment venues, and the fan experience, to new heights, Chase Center is a model for how large-scale construction projects can transform not only the built environment, but also a community through the creation of jobs and economic opportunities for area residents and small businesses. This was a top priority for both our team and the Warriors.”

With Chase Center being based in one of the most important cities in the world in terms of technology that shapes the future, it was always going to be the case that the technology in and around the venue would be game changing.

“Those that comes to Chase Center is perhaps the most technologically-sophisticated audience that you’d find anywhere, so, everything had to work perfectly,” said Rick.

“But, beyond that, it was never technology for the sake of it – not just trying to check a box so we could say we had it. It was all viewed totally from a fan experience viewpoint – it was an absolute must that anything we installed enhanced that experience.”

When it comes to the technology installed at Chase Center, it seems the only place to begin is the impressive, state-ofthe-art centrehung scoreboard from Samsung, which has the largest square footage of surface LED space in the NBA.

038

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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• ARENAS • TRANSIT HUBS

• AIRPORTS • RETAIL SPACE

AtlasIED products installed in the new Chase Center, San Francisco, California

• SCHOOLS • COMMERCIAL SPACE

FAP42T

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THE FULL PITCH

040

Measuring 82.9″x 52.8″x 47.8″ (WxLxH), composed of 17

‘halo’ screen, which is fitted with smaller screens at the

individual displays and weighing approximately 165,000lbs,

base that are angled downwards. A lot of thought went into

it certainly falls into the game-changing category.

how the screen would work within the architecture of the

“We certainly wanted a lot of LED display space when it

venue,” added Scott.

came to Chase Center. There is so much storytelling that

It is not just the record-breaking scoreboard in terms of

we want to do with the displays – being able to provide

visuals, though, with Samsung providing a whole host of

statistical analysis during the game, for example. Having

displays right throughout the venue.

a centrehung scoreboard of that size, as well as the

Mark explained: “Outside, we installed the first-ever full

other displays around the venue, helps us create a more

outdoor LED display in San Francisco. Fastened to the

complete picture of the game, even as it’s progressing,”

outer wall of Chase Center’s west entrance, the vibrant

Scott Heitman, Director of Scoreboard Operations at Chase

display provides a preview of the technology that will

Center, explained to MONDO | STADIA.

be experienced inside. The superior image quality of

Mark Quiroz, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and

Samsung’s 10mm LED video display is second-to-none.

Business Development at Samsung Electronics America,

“Additional Samsung LED technologies can be found

takes up the story: “We became aware of the project in

throughout the venue, adding up to a total of 536 million

the design phase, starting conversations in 2016 and

individual LED pixels. To further enhance the flexibility

collaborating with AV consultants and architects. Chase

of the environment, to accommodate multiple live event

Center and the owner’s representative, CAA Icon, issued a

formats, over 1100 Smart Signage Professional displays were

formal request for proposal (RFP) and we adhered to the

integrated throughout Chase Center.”

RFP guidance and participated in a lengthy submittal and

With this incredible LED display technology in place,

evaluation process prior to award. The project went through

Scott and his team now have the perfect platform to truly

several changes both during the RFP process and after the

enhance the experience for the fans inside the arena.

award.”

“We’re just able to show more of the game through

It is possible for the scoreboard to be taken up into the

additional camera angles, replays and statistical

ceiling and then covered with 79-ft long, retractable

information, as well as offer much more of a platform for

gantry boards, which are also fitted with LED displays

our corporate partners. We have a huge amount of screens

for information and graphics. There is also the capability

throughout the building, so it’s the job of our department

to lower the centrehung to just four foot above the court

to keep the digital signage, concession menu boards and so

floor, making the display a backdrop from presenters.

on up and working,” Scott added.

This is all controlled from the catwalk above or by using a

“We have our own production department, which is

remote device that is plugged into an outlet on the floor.

completely based on that fan experience, covering the

However, for safety reasons, controlling the position of the

music, lighting, lasers, effect, then there’s an entire studio

scoreboard has to be completed by two people at a time.

department there to edit video and graphic designers

Despite the scoreboard’s size, it still had to be designed

creating content for each of our displays. In terms of

carefully to ensure that every person in the crowd had a

freelancers, they are usually the camera, instant replay and

view of the screens, all while being careful to not obscure

graphics operators – they come in on game day and occupy

the view of the court.

the control room.”

“At the top of the main display, the scoreboard has a curved

The incredible displays, from the scoreboard through to the

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042

menu boards, would not be possible without the network

broadcast or networked endpoints and device, all operate

infrastructure, fibre cabling and extender connections

on the cable infrastructure put in place by Parsons

installed by Parsons Technologies, who also handled the

Technologies.

buildings network infrastructure, bowl audio, distributed

For the broadcast system at the arena, the backbone

audio in the suites and concourses and broadcast systems

is based on Belden SMPTE 311M hybrid cable, which is

– all of which was based on designs created by consultants,

specifically designed for high-definition cameras - these

WJHW & SFMI.

composite cables, which include two single-mode fibers

Erik Carlson, Construction Executive at Parsons

and four copper conductors, can multiplex audio signals

Technologies explains why they were chosen for the job:

and video signals as well as deliver power to the cameras.

“We have done a lot of installs like these all over the US,

This allows the Warriors to create broadcast-quality

whether it’s college, NBA, NHL, MLB, NFL, or any other

productions in house, as well as making it simple to

sports & entertainment venues, so we completely fit in

move content between the bowl and broadcast networks.

terms of what they were trying to achieve at Chase Center

Everything was designed and installed to make Chase

and we staffed the project with some of the most seasoned

Center as flexible as it possibly could be.

professionals in the industry.

Both the audio and video benefit from the SMPTE ST-2110

“We were awarded the network infrastructure, including all

standards suite that specifies the transport, synchronisation

of the backbone and network infrastructure cabling, as well

and discovery functions of audio and video over IP

as the AV systems, including the entire front of house (the

networks, in real time, for live production. This network

bowl audio) and PA control room, as well as the concourses,

was installed by Imagine Communications, riding on Arista

clubs and suites at the back of house. Parsons also provided

network switches.

the entire broadcast system, which ties the truck dock and

A JBL system is used for the bowl, with JBL VTX

video production room to all the different broadcast boxes

loudspeakers being the choice. The system comprises eight

in the building.”

line arrays, consisting of six JBP VTX V20s and three JBL

“Once we were on board for all of that, we also worked

ASB6128Vs around the center-hung scoreboard. As well as

directly with the Warriors on the theatrical lighting

that, there are four fill line arrays with six JBL VTX-V20s -

package. We designed that with robotic lighting and

these are flown at the north and south ends of the building

lasers on both the main concourse and the centerhung

for mid-level fills. Power for the loudspeakers is delivered

scoreboard, and then added in eight individual trusses

by Crown DCi Series amplifiers, with Dante-enabled BSS

loaded with lighting for an incredible effect. Plus, we also

BLU DSPs.

ended up doing an installation of the centrepiece – the LED

“We wanted a significantly higher level of audio quality for

chandelier in the theatre lobby.”

their game presentation and having a blank canvas was a

Almost every system that has been installed at Chase

major advantage for that goal,” explained Zachary Caplan,

Center, whether it be loudspeakers, video transport,

Manager, A/V Systems & Broadcast Operations for Golden

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THE FULL PITCH

State Warriors. “Since the project involved starting from the ground up rather than retrofitting an existing facility, WJHW was able to plan for room acoustics early in the design process and create a foundation which allowed the audio system to shine. The main speaker clusters create a clear soundstage at the centre of the arena, which is supported by smaller point source delay fills and array fills wherever line-of-sight or distance to the main clusters was not optimal.

“The arena bowl system uses JBL speakers, Crown amplifiers, BSS Soundweb London DSP, Audinate Dante digital audio networking, and a Yamaha CL5 mixing console. They work well for us because they all integrate seamlessly and provide a powerful and extensible system which allows us to accommodate dynamic client demands

“We’ve had a tremendous opportunity to create the most incredible, forward-thinking, firstclass experience for fans attending games, events and concerts. We hope that Chase Center is a cut above what people would expect.”

in a world-class sporting and entertainment venue.”

The Warriors were particularly pleased with the work on the audio system designed by WJHW and installed by Parsons Technologies.

Zachary furthered: “Acoustically speaking, the mix of

collaborating on the design build of the theatrical lighting

absorption and diffusion is an ideal balance between

system in Chase Center to optimise the available locations

the controlled sound of a broadcast studio and the live

and maximise the overall fan experience in the building.

acoustics of a sports venue. WJHW did a phenomenal job of

“Theatrical lighting and lasers are deployed on the main

balancing the acoustic considerations and visual aesthetics

concourse, the centre hung scoreboard and on eight

by applying heavy bass absorption on the ceiling and

separate theatrical trusses to provide an extremely unique

concealing the mid/high band acoustic panels in the upper

multi-level and multi-directional lighting and laser display

seating bowl behind perforated metal panels. The end result

platform - making Chase Center second-to-none when it

is that it sounds great yet still looks sleek and modern.

comes to its theatrical lighting system.”

“For the speakers, there is a mix of line array boxes and

A whole host of impressive lighting and laser products were

point source boxes which provided a great opportunity to

used for the theatrical lighting system, including Ayrton

leverage the strengths of both technologies. To elaborate,

AY011640/50 Khamsin fixtures, Kvant Atom 15 pure diode

the full-range line arrays on the main speaker clusters and

laser systems, a MA Lighting grandMA3 lighting console,

fill arrays provide the bulk of the system’s output while

Martin Professional MAC Axiom Hybrid fixtures, Pangolin

the point source delay boxes fill out the coverage to ensure

BEYOND software and Pangolin TC2000 SMPTE timecode

every seat receives an exceptional level of audio quality.

device.

“Bass response is also a huge consideration since it creates

Projectors are also used in each corner of the main bowl

the ‘oomph’, which the game presentation staff relies on

area, with six projectors also located on the underside of

to convey impact. Sports fans also demand an immersive

the scoreboard, which are used for projection mapping onto

experience and there is no question that our JBL subwoofers

the court.

deliver. Another interesting note is that the down-firing

The rigging and control system for the audio and lighting

point source boxes on the main speaker clusters were

installation was provided by Mountain Productions, who

specifically tuned for intelligibility to provide courtside

have a 40-year history in supporting the entertainment

guests with an exceptional experience and ensure they’re

industry, having been in many highly technical projects in

able to hear the announcer clearly.”

arenas and stadiums.

The BSS BLU DSP system also allows the various areas in

“We provided the most advanced and safest rigging

back of house to choose the audio feed they would like to

installation in the professional sports arena market.

use, from the bowl sound through to network television

The installation included the rigging and control for

audio and local radio.

the sophisticated audio system, the courtside theatrical

“Our conference rooms, club spaces, and practice facility

lighting system and the video corner boards. The MTN

use Crestron touchscreen control panels which provides

Targeted Positioning Control System allowed for multi

a seamless user experience for a powerful and extensible

layered control of the CM D8+ hoists that MTN provided

audio distribution system. Most spaces with Crestron also

throughout the arena, explained Ricky Rose, CEO at

include local input for video and/or audio which allow

Mountain Productions.

clients to use these spaces for many different types of

“The specifications for all the systems were provided by

events and presentations with minimal extra set up,”

the consulting firm of WHJW and issued to us by Parsons

Zachary added.

Technology. The specifications gave us the parameters of

“Concourses and other public spaces are controlled by a

the installation, which our team implemented with their

comprehensive yet intuitive GUI which makes operating

expertise.”

a facility of this size virtually painless. Aside from the

The Mountain Productions engineering team designed the

intuitive controls layout, the GUI also provides thorough

custom-fabricated rigging components in-house and, with

diagnostic information on DSP and amplifier hardware

their long-standing relationship with CMCO, they were

which allows our team to troubleshoot issues rapidly.”

able to couple the CM D8+ hoists with a soft limit control

As mentioned, for the theatrical lighting setup, Parsons

system and custom-fabricated components for complete

Technologies worked directly with the Warriors, as

control and assurance of the safest and most advanced

Erik detailed: “We worked closely with the Warriors,

rigging solution to sports arenas, allowing for a decreased

043

044

labour burden.

interfaces and Laguna consoles also utilised. All of which

With such a huge project, there was plenty that the

are natively networkable - or able to be networked using

Mountain Production’s team, championed by David Piccola,

conversion through the Imagine Platinum IP3 router, for an

Director of Venue Installations, had to consider.

HDR-compatible SMPTE 2110-compliant control room.

David explained: “Chase Center has an incredibly large

The IT infrastructure, networking solutions and fully

scoreboard and gantry system that closes under the

connected experience at Chase Center is provided by Hewlett

scoreboard causing specific spatial challenges for the

Packard Enterprise (HPE) after the Warriors announced the

elements that Mountain was contracted to rig.

company as a founding partner.

“Our engineering team used very sophisticated 3D

Using state-of-the-art technology from HPE and Aruba, a

modelling, and our in-house virtual reality department

HPE company, they will power the arena’s IT infrastructure

assisted in our ability to see the possible obstructions and

and deliver next generation mobility and indoor location

maintain the safety factor that Mountain is known for.

services throughout Chase Center and the surrounding area.

Beyond that, we employed our Soft Limit Control System

MONDO | STADIA spoke with Keerti Melkote, President of

as the central control system used for talking to each of the

Intelligent Edge for HPE and Founder of Aruba Networks,

elements.”

who explained further: “We started providing connected

Chase Center’s main control room has two separate levels,

experiences in sporting venues with Levi’s Stadium back

with the upper level used for the audio and lighting systems,

in 2014, which was a wonderful implementation – not only

and the lower level for the scoreboard and video. Warriors

in terms of the performance of the Wi-Fi, but in creating a

enlisted the help of WJHW and Diversified to design the

new experience for fans who visited the stadium. So, when

control room for the venue, which includes a Ross Acuity

the Warriors made plans for Chase Center, we obviously

production switcher, Ross’ Carbonite Mosaic video scalers,

were in touch.

Xpression Tessera, and DashBoard control system. Ross’

“They went through the process of selecting a partner,

creative services team – Rocket Surgery – are working with

which was very competitive, but we managed to secure that

the Warriors to create the production and graphic packages,

deal primarily because of our ability to deliver on that fan

too.

experience vision that the Warriors had.”

For the communications, the staff at Chase Center use Riedel

The Warriors had bold, high-level plans for an immersive,

Communication’ Bolero wireless intercom system. Evertz

integrated fan experience like no other, with Chase Center

Dreamcatcher is used for replays, with Focusrite D64R

not only hosting Warriors games, but also concerts and

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events. They wanted the entire area around the arena – the plaza, restaurants and retail spaces – to be connected, too.

The other area that they talked about was to use technology to give them more intelligence from business operations standpoint,” added Keerti. “Understanding how to manage clouds, looking at safety issues surrounding the plaza area – all those kinds of things. So, they were looking for a technology partner that would allow them to not only create an experience, but really give them a full IT platform for operating the stadium.”

With a number of different objectives that the Warriors wanted to achieve at Chase Center, it was down to the HPE team to implement the technology to make that a reality.

Keerti explained how they achieved that: “It starts with the fan experience in terms of using their mobile devices – we wanted to enable an experience on match day that starts with when they navigate from their home to the venue using public transportation, for example. Then, when they’re at the venue, assist in finding your seat, keeping you up-to-date with the activities around the plaza with notifications and using the mobile app.

“So, with a whole host of mobile-led activities and experiences, the network – and the app itself – were key elements of that creation. For this, we delivered W-Fi 6 on the network, as well as the backbone – the core network that connected fans to the internet. That was the first piece of the puzzle, as it were.

“The second is what I call the visitor experience – a mobile app-led experience. It’s not only using mobile app, but starting to use new technologies like augmented reality.

This is for the future – the Warriors wanted a network that had the capacity to deliver on this high bandwidth, realtime experience for fans when they’re in the stadium. So, we needed to put in that high performance network with Wi-Fi 6.

Another area that Keerti and the rest of the team had to focus on was the collection of data regarding activities and events.

“The other piece of the puzzle was the data – collecting information about where people are located, retail transactions in the arena or plaza and so on. It was a question of how to store the data and use it for analytics and real-time arena operations. We delivered our

046

storage solutions for this, so it’s really a full end-to-end

think the real value is in the friction-free experience, in

architecture with Aruba and HPE delivering the entire

that the technology is just in the background helping make

system,” said Keerti.

your day better in the venue.

At the core of the network lies Aruba’s 8400 core and

“The goal for us was to create a future-proof infrastructure

aggregation switches, which offer flexibility and innovation

that would be able to handle the needs of Chase Center

in dealing with modern application, security and scalability

for the next five or ten years. We envision that new

demands in today’s mobile, cloud and Internet of Things

applications around AR and VR will pop up and the system

(IoT) era. Aruba offers the industry’s most advanced,

we have worked on is uniquely suited to support this.”

fully-programmable operating system, carrier-grade

In keeping with the connected experience for the fans,

performance and an industry-first Network Analytics

Verizon implemented one of the first 5G deployments on

Engine that proactively monitors and troubleshoots

the West Coast at Chase Center, making the entire seating

network, system, application and security related issues.

bowl in the arena completely 5G ready.

By enabling intelligent automation and network insights,

Elizabeth Lundin, Executive Director of Network Technology

the operating system reduces the time spent on manual

at Verizon, explained more about the company’s part in

tasks, freeing up time for Warriors and Chase Center IT

the project: “Last year, we had the opportunity to take on

teams to develop new and engaging fan experiences and

this project and have had a great working relationship ever

uncover new ways to drive operational efficiencies for all

since. We made a commitment to Chase Center that Verizon

events in the arena and on the surrounding district.

would have our 5G deployed at the opening of the venue,

Since the opening of Chase Center, the feedback for

which we did – meaning that Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband

HPE and Aruba’s work has been extremely positive,

mobility service will be live in 10 arenas by the end of the

as Keerti revealed: “The feedback has been amazing

2019-2020 season.

– just for the pure experience of being able to visit

“We built the neutral host DAS to cover the entire arena,

the arena, take pictures and videos and communicate

including back offices spaces, the parking garage, outdoor

with friends and family with ease. To be honest, I

plaza, and the retail space. We built it to be as future-

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THE FULL PITCH

flexible as possible, using the Corning ONE, fiber to the

many consider the new venue to be a real home. That is

edge product. We have also built a Verizon 5G UWB overlay

something that Golden State Warriors’ President and Chief

in the bowl to cover the guests during events.

Operations Officer, Rick Welts, certainly agreed with: “We

“Based on data trends at venues and other places that

made some decisions that we think will add value over

host large events in all markets, we put together plans

time to our organisation. One is that we built a brand new

forecasting a few years out as usage continues to increase.

practice facility in the arena, so our players come to work

That resulted in an RF design - antenna placement and

here every day. As well as that, we’re housing all our offices

sector planning. That design was then reviewed to balance

at Chase Center, too.

capacity and ensure the best performance, while keeping an

“It’s a really important cultural decision for us – we

ability to grow.”

wanted everyone to be in the same place. I mean, everyone

Despite the short window for the build, Verizon achieved

knows that we’re going to be here for decades to come. The

exactly what was needed at Chase Center, with room to

people who have been with us for the past five years created

expand and develop the system even further in the future,

every detail of this place, so there’s an amazing sense of

too.

ownership and pride that goes along with this being the

Elizabeth added: “This is one of the most comprehensive

home that we built for us.

arena designs that we’ve ever built, or ever seen. We are

“We’ve had a tremendous opportunity to create the most

really excited about the work that was done and are proud

incredible, forward-thinking, first-class experience for fans

of this partnership with Chase Center.”

attending games, events and concerts. We hope that Chase

Through speaking to the team at Golden State Warriors

Center is a cut above what people would expect – we want

and Chase Center, as well as those companies involved in

it to surprise and delight everyone who comes here.”

the overall project, one thing that has become clear is that

OWNER’S REPRESENTATIVE: CAA ICON | ARCHITECTS: MANICA, Kendall Heaton Associates, Gensler | CONTRACTOR: Mortenson | Clark | DESIGNERS: WJHW, Diversified | INSTALLER: Parsons Technologies | BRANDS: Samsung, Belden, Arista, Imagine Communications, JBL, Crown, BSS, Audinate, Yamaha, Atlas Sound, Crestron, Kvant, Ayrton, MA Lighting, Martin Professional, Pangolin, Mountain Productions, Ross Video, Riedel Communications, Evertz, Laguna, Focusrite, Hewlett-Packard Enterprise, Aruba, Verizon | WEBSITES: www.caaicon.com, www.manicaarchitecture.com, www.kendall-heaton.com, www.gensler.com, www.mortenson.com, www.clarkconstruction.com, www.wjhw.com, www.diversifiedus.com, www.pecsolutions.com 048

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Real-time networks for video, audio & communication

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ALLIANZ ARENA Munich, Germany

Images: Zumtobel

S

ituated in Munich, Germany, Allianz Arena is a multi-purpose, multi-coloured landmark that houses one of the country’s most impressive football teams, Bayern

Munich, in a modern venue that is one of the bestknown in the world. A club with a continuous legacy, winning three consecutive European Cup titles in the 1970s, now has a stadium that shines with a brandnew audio and lighting system. Kitting the arena out with a new lighting setup was Zumtobel Group and audio giants, L-Acoustics.

The brand-new lighting system was installed just in time for the start of the European football season on 18 September 2019, and the interior of the arena shone

052

brightly in an even more vibrant FC Bayern red. During the

Bayern red, the roof area with its new lighting technology,

evening, the new effect lighting was officially turned on by

merges colour into the spectator stands of the arena. In

Karl- Heinz Rummenigge, Chairman of the Executive Board

addition, the new effective lighting of the Zumtobel Group

of Bayern Munich, and Alfred Felder, CEO of the Zumtobel

in the crater-like interior of the Allianz Arena blends in

Group.

with the design language of the building and accentuates its

With its comprehensive lighting expertise, the Zumtobel

architecture. The architectural masterpiece was designed by

Group redesigned the inner roof area of the Allianz

the renowned Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron.

Arena with new lighting technology. The lighting group

During the next phase, the lighting of the cascading

implemented a complete lighting solution in several areas

stairways is due to be renewed. In doing so, the initial

of the venue. The first part, the inner roof area, has now

installation, which consists of lights with fluorescent lamps

been completed with the lights officially turned on for the

from the year 2005, will be replaced by a new lighting

many competitive games inside.

system using energy-efficient Zumtobel LED luminaires.

“The Zumtobel Group has realised a very sophisticated

In the last construction phase, scheduled for 2020, the

customised lighting solution during the first construction

‘balloon lights’ on the esplanade in the outside area of the

phase. We are proud to contribute decades of experience

stadium will be replaced.

and expertise as a full-range supplier and are delighted to

Speaking about the arena’s lighting, Andreas Jung,

now see the Allianz Arena shine in the iconic FC Bayern

Executive Board Member at Bayern Munich said: “A great

red,” said Alfred.

compliment to our partner the Zumtobel Group, who will

During the first construction phase, the inner ring of the

add even more emotion to the Allianz Arena with its new

roof was seamlessly equipped with LED strips. The ring has

effect lighting. The unique lighting design in the roof area

an impressive circumference of 370-metres and is located

will give the fans on the spectator stands a completely

at an installation height of approximately 50-metres above

unique stadium feeling.”

the lawn. In addition, the radially arranged joints in the

Since the Allianz Arena opened in 2005, it has also been

roof area were fitted with LED lines. The LED strips, which

chasing a new and improved audio set-up. Wilhelm &

can be programmed for use in in different colour schemes,

Willhalm has been the infotainment technology service

create a new visual and emotional element in the interior of

provider to the venue since then, and won the upgrade

the stadium with their light display. Lit up in the same FC

project when Müller-BBM launched a tender for the new

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054

sound system, which would provide optimised, uniform

to the spectators, minimising reflections,” explained

sound level distribution across all three tiers, improve the

Thomas Dürrbeck, who was responsible for planning and

transmission quality for music playback, as well as increase

construction at Wilhelm & Willhalm event technology

speech intelligibility for announcements. In addition, the

group.

new system needed to anticipate the upcoming EURO 2020

Weight restrictions also played a decisive role: “Due to the

where, as part of the first pan-European, European Football

static restrictions in the roof area of the stadium, only an

Championship, the only matches in Germany will be staged

eight-inch array system was considered,” added Harald

there. Three preliminary round matches and a quarter-

Frisch, Sound Engineer at Müller-BBM. “L-Acoustics’ Kara

final are already scheduled, and the venue’s sound system

system offered an almost ideal ratio of weight, precision

needed to respond to strong UEFA stadium standards.

of coverage, achievable sound pressure level and sound

Headquartered in Planegg, near Munich, Müller-BBM

quality.”

previously worked with the arena and the Wilhelm &

In total, the L-Acoustics installation in the arena

Willhalm event technology group to optimise room and

comprises 266 Kara line source elements as well as 54

building acoustics. This experience helped when the time

SB18 subwoofers for the main PA, with 48 ARCS WiFo

came to design the new sound reinforcement system. “The

as delay arrays in the curved areas and 70 5XT coaxial

membrane roof of the Allianz Arena creates considerable

compact loudspeakers under the balconies. The system

reverberation in the spectator area. For this reason,

is driven by 110 LA4X amplified controllers with a system

care was taken to design a system that delivers sound

output of 440,000W, which are distributed over ten central

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THE FULL PITCH

amplifiers, each with two 40U system racks.

planning, installation and commissioning of the system

Jürgen Muth, Managing Director Allianz Arena München

within a very short time. Hearing the system when it was

Stadion GmbH, stated: “The new Kara PA system is the

fired up for the first matches filled us with great joy and

result of trusted cooperation with our technology partner

pride.”

Wilhelm & Willhalm, and Müller-BBM as the executive

Managing Director Jürgen Muth, Allianz Arena München

planning office. With L-Acoustics, we chose one of the

Stadion GmbH, continued: “Thanks to the Zumtobel Group

world’s leading suppliers in the field of professional sound

as our lighting partner, the interior of the arena will shine

system technology, who offers a complete package of sound

in an even brighter FC Bayern red. Every football fan

characteristics, flexibility and cost-effectiveness.”

should see that this is the home of FC Bayern München.

“We are delighted that the Allianz Arena Munich now

The new lighting solution is based on state-of-the-art LED

has a Kara system that meets the stadium’s leadership

technology and guarantees the best lighting quality with

requirements, as well as the requirements of UEFA,”

maximum energy efficiency.”

concluded L-Acoustics Director of Business Development, Jochen Frohn. “The great cooperation between Mueller BBM, Wilhelm & Willhalm and the Allianz Arena enabled

ARCHITECT: Herzog & de Meuron | BRAND: L-Acoustics, Zumtobel Group | WEBSITES: www.herzogdemeuron.com, www.l-acoustics, www.zumtobel.com 056

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KING POWER STADIUM Leicester, England

Images: Concept Group & Electro-Voice

S

ince Leicester City’s shock Premier League title win in the 2015/2016 season, the club’s fortunes have shifted significantly, with the Foxes establishing themselves

as one of the most savvy, forward-thinking clubs in Europe. Just as the side’s fortunes on the pitch are on the rise due to intelligent investment, the same can be said of King Power Stadium, too, with the 32,313-seat ground having seen a revamp in key areas.

One element that the club wanted to enhance further was the visual communications, with the brief being to have giant digital displays able to reach all four corners of the stadium, improving the match coverage and content for the fans, as well as giving the club opportunity to drive revenue through advertising opportunities.

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060

Leicester City called upon Concept Group, one of Europe’s

was important to work with a trusted partner on such

leading visual communications experts, to deliver what they

a high profile location. We knew that Daktronics would

wanted, managing all aspects of the product to ensure a

provide a total solution, inclusive of the back-end show

seamless installation and implementation.

control system, and not have to rely on third party systems.

Sean Morrough, Concept Group’s Director, takes up the

Essentially, we had a fully integrated solution for King

story: “Concept Group became involved originally through

Power Stadium.”

our close partner, Daktronics, having received the ITT from

While the technology was perfect for the stadium, there

Leicester City. Concept and Daktronics have a compelling

were some issues to overcome in terms of positioning,

offer and work together extensively in delivering full

which meant that Concept Group had to work closely with

turnkey solutions for the LED display market.”

the architects and structural engineers to find a solution.

“The brief from the club was to provide two high-quality

Sean explained further: “We were entrenched in the design

LED screens, one at each end of the stadium, encompassing

process from the outset, working closely with Daktronics on

a dynamic back-end control system to provide video

the technology aspects to ensure we had the best solution,

playback, potential for advertising revenue, fan engagement

bearing in mind viewing angles, distances, screen quality

and experience and, of course, a scoreboard.

and back-end control systems, but we had to overcome the

“Daktronics are the market leader in providing LED display

challenges that came with the screen positions.

solutions for iconic stadiums globally. We have a strong

“Initially, we highlighted that the proposed locations

partnership with them and, together, deliver LED display

weren’t suitable because they blocked the sky camera

solutions for a wide variety of clients. As such, for us, it

views, the view of some of the supporters and also would

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TECHNICAL INFORMATION VISUAL Daktronics DVX-1103-15HD-7000-N LIGHTING Musco Lighting TLC for LED system AUDIO WALKERS HALL: 8 x Electro-Voice EVC-1122-VIW loudspeaker | 16 x Electro-Voice EVID 6.2 dual loudspeakers | 1 x Electro-Voice CPS8.5 8-channel class-D amplifier | 2 x Electro-Voice PA4150L 4-channel amplifier BAR AREA: 4 x Electro-Voice ZX1i-90W full-range loudspeaker | 1x Electro-Voice PA2450L 2-channel amplifier KEITH WELLER LOUNGE: 6 x Electro-Voice ZX1i-90W full range loudspeaker | 12 x Electro-Voice EVID 6.2 dual loudspeaker | 3 x Electro-Voice PA 4150L 4-channel amplifier | 2 x Electro-Voice EVOLVE 50 portable column speaker system

have blocked the view of a high ball position for both

relevant stakeholders in the stadium, such as the grounds

broadcast and fans within the stadium. So, we came up

staff who cut the grass multiple times daily. This meant

with a different location for the screens, which involved

that the installation process caused as little disruption as

moving them further forward to the front of the roof

possible to the stadium activities.”

structures. In doing so, we actually enabled the club to have

The end result has been hugely impressive, with the new

much larger screens and came up with a structural design

LED displays delivering exactly what Leicester City wanted

solution, which meant the project was deliverable, and also

at King Power Stadium.

ticked all the boxes as far as the viewing angles, camera

“The feedback has been fantastic – we’ve got a lot of

positions and fan experiences were concerned.”

positive comments, especially on social media from fans,

As well as the positioning, a solution was needed in terms

who are all very impressed with the scale of the displays

of the loadings, so that the displays’ supporting structures

that went in. The general reaction centred around the fact

could integrate with the existing roof trusses.

that fans went to one match with no screens and, by the

“Also, we designed it in such a manner to enable us to

time they returned for the next match, there were two

install them from the pitch below, rather than employ large

massive screens there with a big reveal,” Sean said.

cranes and remove roof cladding that would have proved

“These screens really do deliver on Leicester City’s

very disruptive,” Sean added. “The challenges we had were

requirement to offer a great fan experience, and what is

that we had to work between fixtures, there was an England

great is that the screens we provided reflect the facilities

international game and Premier League fixtures. So, we

and the fantastic culture at the club. When you look at

devised a phased approach where we engaged with all of the

the training ground they are currently building and the

061

062

facilities they are looking to implement there, the display

new dimension to matchday entertainment, with instant

technology we’ve put in really demonstrates the high

illumination creating the opportunity for lighting special

standards they uphold.”

effects ahead of matches after dark.

As well as the new screens, Leicester City have also

It’s not just the matchday experience that has been on

upgraded the pitch lighting system at King Power Stadium.

the agenda for Leicester City, with an audio upgrade of

The revamp has seen the club install Musco Lighting’s

the conference facilities also completed. The 650-capacity

Total Light Control for LED system putting the stadium on

Walkers Hall and 500-capacity Keith Weller Lounge, as

par with the world’s elite sporting venues - enhancing the

well as the bar area have been revolutionised by the new

matchday experience for fans in attendance and providing

Electro-Voice sound system installation.

brilliant broadcast quality for the Premier League’s

The big task for Birmingham-based installer, DMX

audience of billions around the world.

Productions, was to achieve uniform coverage of the

TLC for LED is Musco Lighting’s trouble-free solution that

challenging shape of Walkers Hall, which is used for

is capable of controlling light with precision on the pitch to

presentations and conferences. The clear solution was

create an unmatched playing and viewing experience, while

Electro-Voice’s EVC-1122-VI loudspeaker with its unique

virtually eliminating glare and spill for nearby homes, the

variable-intensity configuration that evenly covers a clearly

surrounding environment, and the night sky.

defined rectangular area.

Final calibration and testing of the new system took

“The variable-intensity technology gave us exactly the

place the week before the opening game of the 2019/2020

right amount of gain shading to cope with the change in

Premier League season and, with everything in place,

room height, and the uniform coverage that we set out to

the new pitch lighting at King Power Stadium adds a

achieve,” DMX Productions’ SJ Grevett explained.

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

THE FULL PITCH

Eight white EVC-1122-VI cabinets form the main solution, mounted near the ceiling of the 3.9-metre high void space.

These are supplemented by 16 Electro-Voice EVID 6.2 wallmounted loudspeakers. The high loudspeaker count further contributes to even coverage at moderate sound levels, yet ensures plenty of headroom when needed.

“SPL measurements confirmed that coverage is really even, with only two to three dB difference in level anywhere in the room,” SJ stated. “In every room configuration - end-on, or with the stage either at right or left such as for the players’ awards - a presenter can roam with a radio mic, even directly underneath a loudspeaker, and there’s no risk of feedback.”

Leicester City’s Technical Manager, Tom Brown agreed: “I’m really pleased with the way the EVs cover the whole of the Walker Hall, it’s totally seamless no matter where you are in the room, and the loudpeakers look and sound great.”

A further two spaces - a bar area and a conference room - are fitted with ZX1i loudspeakers in white, while a set of EVOLVE 50 portable column loudspeaker systems is always available for special events requiring extra-high SPL and extended bass.

“I’m very happy,” concluded SJ. “The acid test for us is when the visiting engineer prefers to use the house system to get a better result - that speaks volumes!”

INSTALLERS: Concept Group, DMX Productions | BRANDS: Daktronics, Musco Lighting, Electro-Voice | WEBSITES: www.conceptsigns.co.uk, www.dmxproductions.co.uk, www. daktronics.com, www.musco.com, www.electrovoice.com 063

THE FULL PITCH

2019 WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS Doha, Qatar

Images: Creative Technology

T

aking place at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar, Creative Technology delivered a projected track-athlete introduction, which covered the entire running track, entertainment lighting, LED athlete entrances for both track

and field positions, and an LED medal ceremony podium.

IAAF Event Presentation Manager, Florian Weber, commissioned Creative Technology to deliver a VR model of the Khalifa Stadium featuring athletics apparatus, production overlay, and the proposed LED screens and track projection. This bespoke pre-visualisation service also assisted the broadcast team in allowing them to pre-plan camera locations around the stadium and even specify individual camera and lens specifications - reducing site-visit requirements and overall broadcast costs.

The VR model and the easy visualisation of design changes allowed Creative Technology to work closely with the IAAF sports presentation

THE FULL PITCH

team to plan and design the in-stadia overlay, integrating

and medal ceremony stage, they also provided lighting

all sports, functional, presentation and broadcast elements

fixtures around the top of the stadium. These fixtures

of the event - this could then be viewed by stakeholders to

were part of the entertainment feature and added to the

assess the project and pre-visualise the whole event from

atmosphere of the architectural lighting of the stadium for

all locations within the stadium and from a live broadcast

the duration of the event.

perspective.

Creative Technology used over 100 21K and 31k laser

A number of LED screens were installed throughout the

projectors to project custom content across the entire

stadium with the key placements, including the medal

running track - bringing it to life during the finals.

presentation and ceremonies stage, stadium relay screens,

066

The creative team, headed up by Florian, consisted of Rob

and athlete entry screens. Creative Technology supplied

Currie and Nick Clark-Lowes who worked closely with the

over 500 sq metres of curveable 4.8mm LED screens.

team, led by Project Manager, Matt Hartfree, to develop the

They also supplied eight mobile battery-powered LED

content and technical solution to deliver the vision.

monoliths, an innovative solution to field of play displays,

The projector placement and light levels required were

giving the athletes taking part in the field event finals the

then modelled in the Photon server to work out how to

star treatment they deserved. The LED monoliths could be

project a single continuous image taking into consideration

positioned anywhere around the athletics arena displaying

environmental and structural constraints of the stadium, as

live data for athletes’ names and country flags, marking a

well as other stakeholder requirements.

world first.

Creative Technology provided cameras and switching,

Lighting was added to enhance the overall entertainment

to ensure a seamless delivery of the sports presentation

and draw focus to areas such as the athlete’s entrances,

content for the stadium LED screens, which included, EVS

medal ceremonies, and every time an athlete won a

playback, custom graphics, real-time edit and playback for

tournament. Creative Technology supplied over 80 lighting

production highlights. A total of 24 broadcast and dedicated

fixtures, which consisted of a mixture of Robe BMFL Blades,

camera feeds were fed into the PPU and sent out via the

Claypaky B-Eye K15s and Claypaky Sharpy Plus fixtures.

switcher as four separate HD video outputs, each fed to

In addition to the lighting fixtures at the athlete’s entrance

the stadium control system over a Mediornet wide area

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T24i | T12i United players for the games.

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THE FULL PITCH

network (WAN). Communication and audio feeds were also

for the event presentation system, Creative Technology

transported along with the video signals via the Mediornet

supplied 50 duplex hand-portable radios.

WAN.

For the broadcast rights holders, 150 hand-portable radios

Multiple feeds and an eight-channel recorder linked on

were supplied, with 18 duplex talkback channels linked

10GB network to multiple NAS drives were supplied to three

from the stadium via an audio over fibre solution. A total

editors, which enabled them to select and record the action

of 24 channels of MADI delivered over Mediornet were used

from all the available camera feeds within the venue. The

to make four-wire connections between event presentation

stadium control system, based around two Barco Encore

and the broadcast compound.

switchers, controlled the content to every display, eight

Another 36 radios, four channels of Clear-Com Helixnet

Watchout media servers providing 32 HD outputs provided

talkback and Glensound commentary units were supplied

the content playback to the LED screens. These were also

at the Corniche for the event production of the road

capturing 4K live data from Mercury Sport to display the

racing events. The system also featured motorbike

digital flags and athlete names for the medal ceremony.

communications and an audio channel.

Six Photon media servers handled the projection mapping

Creative Technology’s Middle East General Manager, Irum

and content playback. Creative Technology’s Mercury

Ashraf, added: “Our local office fully supported the wider

Sport application interrogated and formatted the results

Creative Technology team with both human and technical

and timing data to drive Character Works, allowing them

resources. Having been part of several Athletic meetings

to deliver 13 independent scoring outputs, each capable of

held in Doha over the last year, Creative Technology’s local

displaying different graphical states for 49 athletics events.

office played a pivotal role in providing knowledge of the

Controlling the feed to the stadium PA system, Creative

local market, which helped with our successful delivery. It’s

Technology supplied a Yamaha CL5 desk, and Sigma Spot-

a very exciting time for sport in Qatar right now and having

on for audio playback.

a base here puts us in a prime position to be involved in

Creative Technology supplied the communication systems

such great events in the future.”

for the event presentation team and broadcast production

Head of Sport at Creative Technology, Steve Purkess,

team, an essential and critical service on which the success

concluded: “Working towards the IAAF World Athletics

of the live show depended on. The event presentation

Championships in Doha has been an amazing journey,

system was built around a Riedel Artist 128 matrix and

delivering presentation techniques at a scale more

featured 16 comms panels, as well as 12 ways of Riedel C3

commonly seen in opening ceremonies into live athletics

belt-packs.

gave us a unique challenge. It has been a privilege for

Also managed through the artist matrix were 20 Bolero

Creative Technology to play a part in delivering this game-

wireless belt-packs from Riedel for the floor management

changing approach to event presentation.”

team and four CCP-1116 commentary units. As a backup

INSTALLERS: Creative Technology | BRANDS: Barco, Photon, Yamaha, Sigma, Riedel, Clear-Com, Robe, Claypaky, Glensound | WEBSITES: www.ct-group.com, www.barco.com, www.yamaha.com, www.riedel.net, www.clearcom.com, www.robe.cz, www.claypaky.it, www.glensound.co.uk 068

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THE NEW REFERENCE POINT

w w w . r o b e . c z

THURSDAY 13 TH FEBRUARY ISE, RAI AMSTERDAM

The first MONDO | STADIA presents AGORA was held at ISE in 2019, with the sporting venue conference focussing on technology, the latest developments in the industry and future projects.

Through panel discussions, case studies and expert keynote speakers, AGORA explores the benefits of the latest technology, trends and techniques - analysing the impact it has and will have at modern stadiums and sporting venues around the globe.

From enhancing the fan experience and modernising stadium infrastructure, through to the planning of ceremonies and events, AGORA provides valuable insight that will help to increase knowledge and performance for future stadium and sporting venue projects.

AGORA will return as a full-day conference at ISE 2020, offering sporting venue managers and event organisers the chance to network with technology innovators and industry experts.

*Speakers and timings are subject to change.

PROGRAMME 09:30 10:30

REGISTRATION

KEYNOTE: What it takes to design major sports stadia, indoor arenas and training centres Andy Simons, DIrector - KSS

11:00

CASE STUDY: How the Allianz Arena has evolved as a connected stadium Benjamin Steen, Head of Customer Care, Digital Licencing & Stadium - FC Bayern Munich

11:30

CASE STUDY: How Riedel’s Bolero S ensures clear communications for Bundesliga referees Jacky Voss, Business Development Manager - Riedel Communications

PANEL: How technology is enhancing Johan Cruijff ArenA’s ambition to be one of the most innovative and sustainable stadiums in the world Chair: Sam Hughes, Editor - MONDO | STADIA Sander van Stipout, Director International - Johan Cruijff ArenA Stephen Hogg, Head of Sports Projects - d&b audiotechnik

12:00

12:45

DISCUSSION: AVIXA presentation

13:00

NETWORKING LUNCH

PANEL: How state-of the-art audiovisual technology makes Tottenham Hotspur Stadium more than just a football ground Chair: Sam Hughes, Editor - MONDO | STADIA Ewan Prentice, Business Development Manager - Daktronics Ryan Penny, Senior Business Development Manager, Large Venues - Harman

13:45

14:30

PANEL: Understanding the value of eSports for clubs and stadiums Chair: Trevor Keane, Head of Sport & eSports - Fansly Ventures Mats Theie Bretvik, Head of eSports & Gaming - Norway Football Federation Scott Millar, Technical Director - Longer Days Ltd

15:15

KEYNOTE: FC Barcelona’s digital and audiovisual content strategy Didac Lee, Board Member & Head of Digital Area - FC Barcelona

15:45

KEYNOTE: How key technology upgrades are developing Ascot Racecourse’s Smart City aspirations George Vaughan, Head of Technology - Ascot Racecourse

16:15

PANEL: From stadium rock to opening ceremonies - exploring the technical requirements for a true multipurpose venue Chair: Stew Hume, Editor - TPi Magazine Bob Boster, President - Clear-Com

17:00

NETWORKING DRINKS

TICKETS Please register for an ISE ticket first and at the end of the registration process you will be given the opportunity to purchase a ticket for AGORA. Your ticket for ISE will then be free of charge.

Early Bird tickets for AGORA: €175 From 8 January, tickets for AGORA: €250.

SPONSORS GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

SPONSOR

SUPPORTERS

INTERESTED IN AGORA 2020? CONTACT SAM (S.HUGHES@MONDIALE.CO.UK) SPONSORSHIP: JAMIE (J.DIXON@MONDIALE.CO.UK) OR LAURA (L.ILES@MONDIALE.CO.UK)

09 VENUE FOCUS

AUDIO

COMMUNICATIONS

076 Croke Park | Dublin, Ireland 080 Roland-Garros Stadium | Paris, France 084 Hanazono Rugby Stadium | Higashiosaka, Japan 088 Mohammed V Stadium | Casablanca, Morocco

104 Riedel Remote Operations Center | Wuppertal, Germany

BROADCAST 092 Esports Stadium Arlington | Texas, USA 096 Pixellot | ESPN Partnership | USA

LIGHTING 100 Angers IceParc | Angers, France 102 2019 League of Legends World Championship | Paris, France

ARCHITECTURE 110 Wuyanhe Stadium | Haikou, China

AUDIO

CROKE PARK Dublin, Ireland

Images: POLAR Integrated Solutions

H

ill 16 is an open-air terrace at one end of the 82,300 capacity stadium, Croke Park, Dublin.

Europe’s third-largest stadium, Croke Park is synonymous with the Dublin fans, the Hill is steeped in history and

is considered an icon of Irish sport. Although Croke Park’s primary use is for Gaelic football and hurling, the venue is regularly used to host major international music concerts. Recent years have seen appearances by The Rolling Stones, Taylor Swift, U2 and Bruce Springsteen. The technology that supports the operation of a modern multi-use stadium such as Croke Park must be of the highest quality.

Audio plays a key role in the day to day operation of the venue and its management team recently undertook an overhaul of the stadium’s audio provision, including that of the famous old Hill, which is considered to be outdated and requires constant maintenance.

Leading consultancy, Vanguardia were appointed as consultants to the project and approached POLAR Business Development Manager, Adam Brown to bid for the use of Renkus Heinz loudspeakers to replace the ageing system on the Hill 16 open-air terrace, as well as the courtyard area adjacent to the rear of that section.

Hill 16 presented a unique challenge in comparison to the rest of the stadium. The covered areas at Croke Park offered a relatively straightforward setting, with sufficient mounting points to enable the required coverage and containment to be obtained with few issues.

At Hill 16, the open-air nature of the terrace restricted the possible loudspeaker locations to existing angled pillars located at intervals above the terrace. As a result, audio provision, which was to deliver announcements, background music and safety alerts, needed to cover the whole area, while not disturbing the stadium’s neighbours in the external environment. Audio steering capability was, therefore, crucial but so was the need to deliver high enough SPL to reach all of the 10,000 spectators in the open-air section. The right balance was essential.

As a result of their powerful and sophisticated digital beam-steering performance, Renkus-Heinz loudspeakers were shortlisted against several other competitor products and Darren Stratford, Head of Technical Support for POLAR Integrated Solutions supported Vanguardia with the creation of EASE plots to ensure that the required SPLs were adhered to for every public position. 2D and 3D drawings were also supplied along with recommendations for mounting options

AUDIO

for the existing pillars. POLAR worked closely with Vanguardia and

Renkus-Heinz loudspeakers on such a large-scale project: “The

integrator, Mongey Communications with regard to connections,

Hill 16 section of Croke Park was an interesting project to be part

failover and fault-finding, to integrate into the stadium’s control

of due to both its size and the requirement for pinpoint clarity

and monitoring software, which was created by Staffordshire-

in an outdoor environment for PA/VA purposes. The scope of the

based specialist Audomation.

requirements seemed to be a perfect fit for the ICL-F-DUAL-

After careful consideration and research, Vanguardia put forward

RD columns. We needed to be able to maintain excellent speech

the Renkus-Heinz solution, deeming it to be demonstrably the

intelligibility as well as providing even coverage at high SPL across

best system for the requirements of the project. The Renkus-

the entirety of the area.”

Heinz steerable line arrays would deliver sufficient power and

Renkus-Heinz’s flagship beam-steering technology proved beyond

even coverage across the terrace while avoiding the external

doubt to be an excellent choice. The sound was focussed across

environment and would also seamlessly blend into their

the entirety of the 10,000 capacity outdoor area of the stadium in

supporting pillars.

such a way that it was able to reach levels of 102dB(A) at 30 metres

Mongey Communications installed six Renkus-Heinz IC Live Dual

away from the columns, whilst maintaining coverage that sat

columns and three IC Live single columns. All the loudspeakers

well within the +/- 3dB(A) uniformity requirements for that area.

were weather-resistant and custom-coloured with stainless steel

Darren continued: “The IC-Live range was able to achieve the aims

grilles.

seemingly effortlessly, while still maintaining an outstandingly

Once installed, POLAR Integrated Solutions engineers, Darren

impressive fullness and clarity without sounding remotely

Stratford and Jason Spooner, visited the site to commission the

overdriven. It’s even more impressive once you take a moment to

system, steering the beams and configuring the integration into

listen to the overall quality of output the system can produce and

the audio network. To ensure that all the monitoring and fault-

get your head around the fact that the biggest drivers in that entire

reporting requirements of the overall system were available,

system are only 6.5-inches.”

Renkus-Heinz created new versions of firmware and APIs. For Darren, this was the first time he’d been involved in utilising

DISTRIBUTOR: POLAR Integrated Solutions | CONSULTANT: Vanguardia | INSTALLER: Mongey Communications | BRAND: Renkus-Heinz | WEBSITES: www.renkus-heinz.com, www.polar.uk.com, www.vanguardia.co.uk, www.mongey.ie 078

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STADE ROLAND GARROS Paris, France

Images: Danley

W

080

idely considered to be the most physically

greenhouses and expansion of old stadiums, and the

demanding tennis tournament in the world,

tournament village.

due to its slow-playing clay court surface and

A wide-ranging project to overhaul the venue was

best-of-five-set men’s singles matches, the

presented in 2011, including building a roof over court

French Open is the premier clay court championship, held

Phillipe-Chatrier, demolishing and replacing Court number

over two weeks at the Stade Roland-Garros in Paris.

one with a grassy hill for outdoor viewing, and geographical

Constructed in 1928 to host France’s first defence of the

extension of the venue eastward into the Jardin des Serres

Davis Cup, the stadium has undergone a number of phases

d’Auteuil.

of renovation and expansion. From 2004 to 2008, plans

Legal opposition from environmental defence associations

were developed to build a covered stadium with a roof,

and other stakeholders delayed the project for several

as complaints continued over delayed matches. Various

years as litigation ensued. The city council voted against

proposals were put forward to expand the facility or move

the expansion in May 2015, but in June 2015, Paris Mayor

the tournament to a new, 55-court venue outside of Paris.

Anne Hidalgo announced the signing of the construction

In 2011 the decision was taken to maintain the tournament

permits, with work scheduled to begin in September of

within its existing venue. The expansion project called for

that year, and concluding in 2019. In December 2015 the

a new stadium to be built alongside the historical Auteuil’s

Administrative Court of Paris once again halted renovation

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AUDIO

work, but the French Tennis Federation won the right to carry out the renovation on appeal.

Renovation work finally commenced at the end of the 2018 edition of the tournament. The 2019 edition finally inaugurated Court Phillippe-Chatrier and its renewed Danley sound system.

The largest of the courts, Court Phillipe-Chatrier now accommodates over 15,000 spectators, so intelligibility was vital.

“The sound reinforcement system at Roland Garros is used mainly for speech reinforcement for the referee, players and organisers, as well as for advertising and the national anthem,” explained Etienne Bérard, Director of DEMOA, a French audiovisual distribution company. The audiovisual consultant on the project, CREAPRAG, asked DEMOA to find an efficient, high-intelligibility sound reinforcement system for the rebuilt stadium. Etienne modelled a Danley point-source system, relying on Danley’s fullfidelity, phase-coherent output to deliver the requested intelligibility.

“The client wanted a system that could fit into the relatively small niche that had been given for loudspeaker placement,” Etienne continued. “In addition, it had to be highly directional so as not to disturb the press room

081

AUDIO

located just below the loudspeaker niche. I used Bose modelling software to propose a system using a Danley J3-94 Jericho Horn, and we offered proof-of-concept with a demo up against a high-end line array. The Danley J3-94 Jericho Horn showed vastly better intelligibility across its output pattern and 15dB greater rejection at the back of the loudspeaker (at 500Hz). The CREAPRAG consultant expressed to the tournament officials that he had never experienced such phenomenal intelligibility at such distances and in such an environment (it measured around 0.75 STI at 60-metres).”

DEMOA rented the system from Neuron Pro Audio of Manchester, UK, who installed, operated, and removed the temporary system. The four Danley THmini15 subwoofers were placed left and right of the main LED screen, two each. Three Powersoft X4 amplifiers with integrated, DSP powered and conditioned the Danley J3-94 Jericho Horn and the Danley THmini15 subwoofers. “We received a lot of enthusiastic comments about the sound quality and power from such a modest-looking system,” Etienne reported.

“The Danley subwoofers also made a good impression.

They combined to deliver a surprising amount of bass for such a large venue.”

INSTALLER: Neuron Pro Audio | DISTRIBUTOR: DEMOA | CONSULTANT: CREAPRAG | BRAND: Danley | WEBSITES: www.neuronproaudio.co.uk, www.demoa.fr, www.danleysoundlabs. com, www.creaprag.com 082

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HANAZONO RUGBY STADIUM Higashiosaka, Japan

Images: TOA, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

O

084

pened in 1929, the Hanazono Rugby Stadium,

minimising sound leakage.

Higashiosaka, has led the history of Japanese

TOA distributed a range of compact line array loudspeakers

rugby for an impressive 90 years. A platform

with high clarity and directivity control to produce a

for a new era of the sport, the stadium has

uniform sound space. Its aim was to divide the listening

played host to many major league games, including the

areas finely and suppress the output of individual

Rugby World Cup 2019, which saw South Africa come

loudspeakers, therefore preventing sound leakage outside

out on top to a combined match total of over 1.7 million

the arena and reducing potential noise complaints. The

spectators.

products TOA chose included the HX-5 Series and HX-7

Coinciding with the Rugby World Cup, the stadium was

Series compact line array loudspeakers, along with

dealt a much-needed renovation of its entire sound system,

digital power amplifiers and a digital wireless system to

imperative to the adrenaline fuelled atmosphere of a

control the audio output. Speaking about the new sound

world cup contest. Japan based manufacturers, TOA were

system, Yukihito Okui, Stadium Manager at Hanazono

chosen to revive the venue’s aging audio. The main goal

Rugby Stadium, said: “When I’ve been walking around

was to create uniform clarity throughout the venue, while

the different parts of the stadium during the matches,

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AUDIO

the broadcasts about the game and other announcements come through very cleanly. I think it’s easier to hear even during the game. Rugby matches can be complicated and the rules can be difficult to understand. Even people new to rugby can now enjoy the game more easily, and I think the stadium has become much more accommodating to spectators.”

Ease of use was high on the team’s agenda, so the broadcast status within the stadium is confirmed and configured visually via a PC monitor to reduce operator burden and greatly improve system operability. As well as this, TOA utilised digital wireless equipment, mobile sound wagons, and moveable loudspeakers to reduce interference and make the system easy to use for more general events.

Takeshi Tachibana, Press Officer at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, explained: “We’ve created a sound space that makes the sound easy to hear no matter where you are in the stadium. We’ve also added a ‘visual’ element to the sound controls, vastly improving operability.

“The previous equipment itself was old and the quality of the sound wasn’t very good. Some of the loudspeakers had stopped working, making it difficult to hear broadcasts in certain parts of the stadium. The newly renovated system

085

AUDIO

makes it possible to hear broadcasts at the same sound

four games and rugby fans from all over the world enjoyed

quality and volume wherever you are in the stadium, and

the celebrations that were held inside our beautifully

the addition of ‘visualisation’ to the control system makes

renovated stadium,” said Yukihito.

it easy to check, via a PC monitor, the outputs of individual

After the soaring success of the Rugby World Cup 2019,

loudspeakers, which makes for a big improvement in terms

the Hanazono Rugby Stadium is looking to a bright and

of operability.”

promising future that will see its new renovation bringing

The Rugby World Cup 2019 was a big push for Hanazono

in crowds of many supporters of the ever growing, ever

Stadium to upgrade the sound system that was beginning

challenging world of sport. Looking to the future, Yukihito

to create some challenges for the games held there. Because

said: “We’d like to play a role in sports promotion and town

the system was so old, age-related declines in performance

development, focusing, of course, on rugby. The stadium

had become conspicuous, with cracking and audibility

is located next to a residential neighbourhood, so first

variations making broadcasts difficult to hear in parts of

and foremost we’ll need to be considerate of those local

the arena. Of course, if the venue was to host the Rugby

residents, but if we can clear those issues, then I think

World Cup, it needed a world-class sound system capable

it opens up prospects for using the facilities for various

of delivering clear sound to every corner of the pitch, and

purposes other than rugby.”

that is exactly what it did. “The excitement surrounding the Rugby World Cup 2019 was incredible. The stadium hosted

BRAND: TOA | WEBSITES: www.toaelectronics.com 086

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The HX-7 is a powerful and compact variable dispersion line array speaker with SYNC-Drive™ waveguide technology and flexible mounting options. Due to its award winning enclosure design, employing four modules per unit, the HX-7 allows precise adjustment of sound dispersion angles of 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 degrees. The line array offers pristine clarity in a wide range of applications such as sports venues, auditoriums, concert halls and airports.

TOA’s new power amplifiers are the perfect tools to control the high power HX-7. With an output of 1000W/1250W per channel, the DA-1000F & DA-2500D combine affordability, versatility and efficiency.

Visit us at the ISE 2020 in Amsterdam to find out more about TOA's newest innovations and audio applications.

For more information visit: www.toa.eu/ise-2020

ISE 2020 · 11-14 February 2020 · Hall 7/N-200 Free invitation code: 706584 We supply sound, not equipment.

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MOHAMMED V STADIUM Casablanca, Morocco

Images: NEXO

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n Casablanca, Morocco, the Mohammed V

city of Casablanca appointed integration company Encom

Stadium has re-opened after renovations,

to orchestrate the installation of world-class sound

which have restored it to former glories,

reinforcement equipment, which would also be used to

and implemented the technical standards

meet international voice alarm and evacuation standards.

recognised by international competition organisers. For

Based in Casablanca, Encom is a PA company, an installer

audio production, a NEXO GEO S12 sound reinforcement

and audiovisual integrator, as well as an importer of pro

system has been chosen, designed and installed, all in

audio equipment. One of the company’s imported brands is

the shortest time frame in NEXO’s long experience with

NEXO.

stadium sound.

Not for the first time, Encom’s General Manager, Rachid

The Stade Mohammed V has capacity for up to 67,000, and

Mediouni, turned to NEXO’s Engineering Support Division

is the home of Casablanca’s two football clubs, as well as

to design the project. Working together, the companies

hosting the games of Morocco’s National team. Since it was

have already delivered two successful stadium installations

built, it has been considered to be the national stadium of

with international-class audio technology, in Agadir and

Morocco and has hosted the biggest events and sporting

Marrakech.

competitions in the country.

“Having used these products previously, as well as this

As part of a major programme to upgrade facilities, the

rigging solution, we had no doubt it was the perfect answer

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AUDIO

to such a difficult task. NEXO’s GEO S loudspeakers are

slope of the stands. By doing that, the clusters became

ideal for difficult and challenging projects, thanks to the

perpendicular to the spectators area, which is the only way

construction and design, as well as specifications and the

to cover properly the top rows in the middle of each stand.”

ease of installation,” explained Rachid.

“As a mainly open stadia with very few hanging points,

The Casablanca schedule was tight. Senior Project Designer,

we had to identify the best shooting points and raise the

Carole Marsaud recalled that the turnaround between

clusters accordingly. Tisseyre & Partners proposed to tilt

winning the tender in May, and completing the installation

and lean the clusters according to the seating slope in order

by the end of July, was one of the shortest in the experience

to be perpendicular to the audience as we previously did

of NEXO’s specialist ES Division.

in Agadir Stadium. In regard to the rigging possibilities

Carole’s brief was also unusual in that the Mohammed

available, it was the accurate choice and decision to make,

V stadium is mainly an open stadium. Only a small

and it worked perfectly,” furthered Rachid.

percentage of the stands are covered by a roof, markedly

Other considerations for this venue included problems

different in construction to the national stadia of Europe.

arising from a very high level of crowd noise, particularly

For an audio designer, this poses the question of where to

when it comes to the fiercely contested matches between

position the large clusters of powerful loudspeaker modules

the two Casablanca teams, Wydad and Raja, whose fans are

required to throw sound to thousands of seats.

recognised worldwide for their incredible tifos. The NEXO

“Without a structure, it was a challenge,” explained Carole.

system needed to deliver at 101dBA in order to be heard over

“We had to be more creative, although we were under a

the rival fans sitting in opposite stands.

lot of time pressure. The solution turned out to be simple.

The NEXO team designed the system around its GEO S12

We did something we’ve never done before – we tilted

line array loudspeaker, and its GEO S12-ST variant. GEO

the clusters horizontally, to an angle that matched the

S12 has been designed for concert sound, and the S12-ST

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AUDIO

version, adapted to deliver higher SPL and enhanced speech intelligibility, has become NEXO’s best-selling enclosure for the long-throw applications in stadia and arenas. More than 70 GEO S12 cabinets are deployed in Casablanca.

“One grandstand section is covered by a roof,” explained Carole. “Here we have used a standard design, flying six clusters each with six GEO S12 cabinets from the roof beams. It was more difficult to find loudspeaker positions for the uncovered stands.

“We were able to position a big array of eight GEO S12 modules on each side of the roof, angling them so they match the slope of the seating areas. On the opposite side of the pitch, there is a centrally-placed tower, which houses press and officials: this gave us another site to put arrays of eight modules, this time using the long-throw GEO S12-ST modules, which could address 80-metres of audience area. This was the best solution possible, given the infrastructure, and we are very pleased with the audio performance we achieved.”

The system is powered by NEXO’s NXAMP4x4 controller/ amplifiers, distributed among four amplifier room locations. The installation takes advantage of fibre optic cabling, with a Dante network in place and a Yamaha digital console in control.

SYSTEM INTEGRATOR: Encom | BRANDS: NEXO, Yamaha | WEBSITES: www.encom.ma, www.nexo-sa.com, www.yamaha.com 090

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ESPORTS STADIUM ARLINGTON Arlington, USA

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easuring 100,000sq ft, Esports Stadium

The venue needed to establish a broadcast workflow

Arlington, Texas is the largest dedicated esports

suitable for its modern event space, the stadium’s

facility in North America. The facility serves

integrator suggested adding TSL Products’ advanced control

as a turnkey solution for eSports events and

system into the facility’s workflow to achieve a seamless,

productions. Built to serve the unique needs and demands

universal broadcast control surface.

of the eSports community, recent events held at the facility

“We needed an advanced and user-friendly system to

include eSports Championship Series – season six, the

transition between live hosts and various player cameras

Super Smash Bros. ULTIMATUM regional tournament, the

to help organise who should be live at each point of the

2018 Collegiate Rocket League National Championship and

event,” said Corey Dunn, Vice President of Broadcast for the

the Guns of Boom Pro Series – Season two.

stadium. “Operating with TSL’s advanced control system

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BROADCAST

camera to our production crew knowing who is live and

“Advanced control and tally systems, such as TSL’s solutions, can help bridge the gap for production personnel in order to achieve a smooth broadcast or live stream.”

when - the integration of TSL into our workflow doesn’t just impact camera operators, but the entire production.”

The stadium uses TSL Products’ advanced control to significantly improve its workflow, especially with the multitude of camera angles required in eSports productions.

In addition to the sheer volume of inputs and potential places that the technical director needs to locate and select for preview/program, the fast-paced and ever-changing ‘action movie’ nature of the environment also lends itself to a dedicated advanced control system. Additionally, many eSports workflows require interfacing a bevvy of both traditional broadcast as well as IT and COTS equipment to run properly. Using Virtual Panel Interfaces, the stadium can create an easily configurable process to customise these operations with intuitive, drag-and-drop controls.

“TSL helped solve our biggest challenge: integrating the many different types of equipment and technology we have

benefits both the production crew and on-camera talent.

at the facility,” said Corey. “The system provided us with

From the hosts at the desk transitioning from camera-to-

the opportunity to put on smooth shows consistently. Our

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BROADCAST

integrator helped us make the best possible selection for

observers,” Corey added. “This could be a console, PC and

the facility, and TSL continues to deliver.”

even a mobile observer. We even have tally lights for our

TSL’s intuitive control interface enables users to establish

observers. TSL has allowed us to expand our storytelling

seamless broadcast communication on a single, unified

capabilities with its ability to control and interface with

layer. The system was initially built as a tally system and

third-party devices, which in this case is mainly Grass

therefore had to be independent, universal, configurable

Valley cameras and multi-viewers.”

and infinitely scalable. With over 2,000 installations

For eSports applications, it’s important for the observer

worldwide, TSL can now manage complex control tasks,

to have an advanced tally and control system because it

such as router control, studio failover and delegation.

helps to tie in the entire production ecosystem. eSports

With TSL, customers can achieve interoperability between

productions are very similar to traditional sports, but the

equipment routed through analogue, IP or hybrid

potential for exponentially more inputs and sources to

networks, regardless of differing manufacturers and

choose from in the production control room creates an

format specifications. TSL’s Tallyman control system is

even greater need for advanced control. There is also an

a globally trusted and road-tested broadcast production

additional workflow challenge when working with game

control solution that bridges the gap between IP framework

servers and video game consoles acting as inputs. Advanced

components and any broadcast or live presentation

control and tally systems, such as TSL’s solutions, can help

technical equipment.

bridge the gap for production personnel in order to achieve

“In traditional sports, the production has gameplay

a smooth broadcast or live stream.

cameras - our gameplay cameras are our in-game

BRAND: TSL Products | WEBSITES: www.tslproducts.com 094

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PROFESSIONAL

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weather rating, ArenaMatch DeltaQ modules make it easy to create

BROADCAST

PIXELLOT | ESPN PARTNERSHIP USA

Images: Pixellot

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ith the help of Pixellot’s automated sports production solutions, ESPN has been able to successfully expand programming to include smaller sporting events, such as soccer, field hockey, lacrosse and volleyball, which

would usually get very little, if any, coverage.

Pixellot enable sports organisations – both professional and amateur - to affordably cover their events through the way in which they have revolutionised the traditional video capture, production and distribution processes Colby Adamson, Director of Account Services US, takes up the story: “We’ve been in conversations with ESPN for around five years now - we’ve done quite a few different small demos with them over the years, but it all really came together two years ago when they have an automated production summit – they basically brought together different leaders in the industry up to their headquarters in Bristol, giving us the chance to present and discuss our products.

“From that, we were chosen as an ESPN partner to help them move into the automated production field. The next step saw us do a demo for them at University of Texas, installing our system at their volleyball stadium. We also did a demo on the Longhorn Network, which was a multi-angle shoot that showcased our capabilities in terms of replacing an entire production truck.”

Pixellot’s patented technology streamlines the production workflow by deploying an unmanned multi-camera system in a single fixed rig - with additional angles as required, covering the entire playing field and delivering a stitched panoramic image. Advanced autoproduction algorithms track the flow of play, identify highlights, create replays and insert ads without human intervention.

Pixellot’s panoramic capture generates unique interactive

the coverage just based off that video.

content for web, mobile, coaching and Virtual Reality

“We have sport-specific algorithms that are applied to

applications and offers fans, players and coaches intuitive

each sport on the panorama – and for each one, we know

tools to generate and share their own clips.

how to replicate a cameraman. So, not only is it broadcast

“When it came to getting the ESPN partnership, the first

quality, it also looks like there is a broadcaster on site.

college system we did was at the University of California

Those algorithms are improving themselves, too, through a

Irvine, which was the first big test for what we wanted to

combination of machine learning and artificial intelligence,

do at different colleges – that being, to take our product,

they are getting better every day.

replace the camera operator and provide automated

“And then, on top of that, we have a full graphics package

graphics,” Colby added.

that matches ESPN – it’s also fully automated based on the

“At that point, ESPN had it down to just us and one other

data that comes from the scoreboard at the venue.”

potential partner that they were working with. We then did

Pixellot Prime is currently covering basketball, soccer and

the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, where we showed

field hockey, with men’s and women’s lacrosse expected

them that we had checked some of the boxes they had

to join the ranks early next year, as well as some indoor

specified, such as getting a 60 frames per second camera

facilities to show volleyball.

and proving that the automated production didn’t miss

“The college market is huge for us – we think we offer

anything.

a cost-effective way to cover sports that basically don’t

“So, after some negotiations, we closed the deal for us to

get any coverage. Having said that, there’s space for

be able to cover games at four different venues across the

the product in professional leagues, too. We are already

conference.”

installed in the entire American Hockey League, for

For ESPN, Pixellot Prime has been used, which is ideal for

example. Plus, Pixellot is used by some Barcelona, Bayern

colleges and youth academies, as well as professional sports

Munich and Premier League clubs for coaching purposes.

teams.

We like to think that we have a product that fits a lot of

Colby explained further: “We take the four cameras that are

markets within this industry,” Colby said. “With ESPN, we

within the Pixellot Prime camera head and we stitch them

feel we’re at a point where we’ve closed all the gaps. They

together to create an 8k panoramic video – from that, we

are the right partner in terms of allowing us to expand into

apply our machine learning and our algorithms to create

other colleges, lower leagues and professional leagues.”

BRAND: Pixellot | WEBSITES: www.pixellot.tv 098

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LIGHTING

ANGERS ICEPARC Angers, France

Images: CHAUVET

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here is a world of difference in the talent one

with an immersive experience.”

can see skating on the ice at the new Angers

A collection of 14 Rogue R2X spot units are used to light

IceParc. On some days, the elegantly designed

the facility’s Olympic Track, and 10 of the 300W moving

facility on the banks of the Maine plays host to

fixtures are deployed at a Fun Track. The intense output

hockey games played by the professional Duc d’Angers, a

of the Rogue lights (11,000 lumens at five-metres) gives

tenant of the city-owned rink. Most of the time, however,

them ample brightness to cover the entire ice rink, while

it serves its community as a public ice rink, accomodates

the 16.5° beam angle, two variable scrolling colour wheels

a number of actives, such as youth hockey, ice karting and

with seven colours, a three-facet prism, and smooth gobo

skating classes, under the auspices of the nonprofit UCPA

morphing, open a wide range of opportunities to create

(Union des Centres Sportifs de Plein Air).

unique looks on ice.

There is one thing, however, that visitors can count on

“The power of the Rogues was very important,” said

whenever they visit Angers Ice Parc, whether it’s for a

Jérémie. “Thanks to their output, it is possible to have the

professional hockey game, or an event involving amateurs:

necessary luminous flux despite the height as the fixtures

the mesmerising lighting will always create an engaging

are positioned more than 12-metres over the ice. We also

atmosphere. The versatile, visual system financed by UCPA

rely on the Rogue’s interchangeable gobos to integrate the

and installed by Club Services ensures that.

various sponsors of the Duc d’Angers hockey team.”

Animated by the intense brightness, crisp gobo patterns

Like all projects, creating the lighting system at Angers Ice

and richly textured colours from CHAUVET Professional

Parc was not without its challenges. By the time the lights

Rogue R2X spot fixtures, the rink at Angers Ice Parc comes

were ready to be installed, the new rink was already in its

alive with vibrant visuals for a wide range of events.

ice setting phase. This made it impossible to use baskets

“We designed our lighting to be adaptable to the client’s

during the installation process. Instead, the crew had to go

needs,” said Jérémie Menore of Club Services. “This means

up on gangways and dismantle the grids by hand to install

the lighting can easily change, according to the event and

the lights.

time of day. For example, we will create a club type of

In the end though, the club services team met this

lighting in the evenings, and slower, more colourful looks

challenge, and put together a lighting system that, like a

during family sessions. The lighting is essential to give life

great skater, is fast, powerful and extremely versatile.

to the rink. It contributes to the general atmosphere during matches and shows, and allows us to provide spectators

BRAND: CHAUVET | WEBSITE: www.chauvetlighting.com 101

LIGHTING

2019 LEAGUE OF LEGENDS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Paris, France

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he eyes of the global gaming community were focused

A grand opening ceremony kickstarted proceedings, with new

on the spectacular final of Riot Games’ League of

projection technology simulating immersive holograms interacting

Legends World Championship in November, as teams

with real-life singers and dancers.

from far and wide battled to be crowned the 2019

TSL Lighting worked with production company Concom, Lighting

winners.

Designers Arnold Serame of Serame Design, and LeRoy Bennett of

An estimated 100 million people live streamed the tournament,

Seven Design Works to supply, deliver and man a full lighting and

with a capacity of 20,000 in attendance at the AccorHotels Arena

control system comprising more than 1,000 fixtures.

in Paris. Riot Games CEO, Nicolo Laurent, described the final as:

Eight trucks transported the equipment from the company’s

“The biggest event in the history of eSports.”

Basingstoke warehouse to the indoor arena in the French capital.

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“We’ve been working with Concom on the Riot shows for the last

every single component of the network is fully backed up with

five years and they just keep getting bigger and better,” said TSL’s

100% redundancy. It’s very important for us to keep investing

Dom Sheerman. “They chose to work with us in the first place

because it keeps us at the forefront of technology and enables top

because of our reputation for attention to detail and delivering

notch solutions for all of our projects.”

solid lighting systems. We have a very strong backbone with our

Arnold Serame, Lighting Designer for Riot Games, commented:

control systems, particularly when we’re doing live broadcasts,

“Work ethic and care for a standard of excellence is why I often

and it’s really important to the Riot team to make sure there are

tell others that TSL is definitely one of the best, if not the best

no issues at all.”

lighting company that I’ve ever worked with. This was really

12 of TSL’s new grandMA3 consoles – eight full size and four light

extraordinary.”

versions – controlled a rig consisting of Robe BMFL WashBeam,

Brian Jenkins, LeRoy Bennett’s Programmer, added: “Very rarely

RoboSpot, T1 Profile, MegaPointe and Pointe fixtures; Martin MAC

do we show up to a one-off show and there are no fixture issues,

Aura XB and Vipers; and a complementary rig of Claypaky, Vari-

no patch issues, no network issues. TSL’s homework allowed us

Lite, SGM, Chroma-Q Colorforce II and OXO Pixyline 150 battens.

to concentrate on the art of the show. I appreciate their hard work

More than 2,000 metres of fibre-optic cabling and 500-metres of

and great attitude. I hope we work together again soon.”

pre-rigged truss was prepped in Basingstoke and delivered to be

Chinese team FunPlus Phoenix defeated European rivals G2

set up by the TSL crew.

Esports to win on the night, taking home more than $2.25m in

“The network was designed using components from our Luminex

prize money.

Gigacore system, which has been an investment priority for us over the last two years,” Dom continued. “On a show like this,

BRANDS: TSL Lighting, Robe, Martin by Harman, Claypaky, VARI-LITE, SGM Light, Chroma-Q | WEBSITES: www.tsllighting.com, www.robe.cz, www.martin.com, www.claypaky.it, www.vari-lite.com, www.sgmlight.com, www.chroma-q.com 103

COMMUNICATIONS

RIEDEL REMOTE OPERATIONS CENTER Wuppertal, Germany

Images: Riedel Communications

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ased in Wuppertal, Germany, Riedel’s Remote Operations Center (ROC) will be an unseen – but absolutely vital – part of the weekend’s German Bundesliga games, delivering crystal clear

communication between the referees and the Video-AssistCenter (VAC) located in Cologne. Coming under Riedel’s Managed Sports Services division, which comprises of customengineered technologies paired with extensive supervision and support by Riedel-qualified engineers, the DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga is one of the first to benefit from the service.

COMMUNICATIONS

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Riedel’s Bolero wireless intercom system, which was

Bundesliga games and in the final 15 DFB Cup matches. As

introduced in 2017, is a reliable intercom platform with

a result, league referees can experience all of the benefits

outstanding audio quality that is perfectly suited for sports

that the Bundesliga referees have already been enjoying for

broadcasts. However, the main challenge was to deliver that

more than a year, including high-transmission security,

solution to suit referees – allowing them to communicate

significantly improved voice and sound quality, and

clearly with the VAC, within the environment of a live

guaranteed quality assurance. The ROC further expanded

game.

its capacity and equipment at the start of this season in

For this joint effort, DFL experts and Riedel’s team of

order to provide sufficient space for the rapid expansion in

engineers and product managers took on the task of

remote management services.

designing a smaller version of the Bolero system that

“After the successful premiere in the Bundesliga last

offered unlimited freedom of movement on the pitch,

season, it quickly became clear that we would also be

while still preserving key characteristics such as multiple

using the Riedel solution in the 2. Bundesliga and for the

channels, high voice clarity, and unsurpassed RF reliability.

DFB Cup,” said Ansgar Schwenken, DFL Director Football

Early on, it was decided that voice activated transmission

Affairs & Fans. “Riedel’s tailor-made technologies and

(VOX) would offer the hands-free convenience to make

comprehensive system management from the ROC in

the project successful. The result is the Bolero S - a VOX-

Wuppertal have considerably enhanced both the referee

operated hands-free beltpack and lightweight headset

comms and the integration of the video assistant. The

combination that allows Bundesliga referees, assistants and

cooperation between the DFL and Riedel is a perfect

Video Assistant Referees (VAR) to communicate effortlessly

example of how innovative technology and the emotion

via a real-time connection to the ROC.

inherent in football can be perfectly harmonised.”

The system has been a huge success, so much so that,

With the introduction of the Bolero S systems in the 2.

for the 2019/20 season, the Riedel Bolero S referee

Bundesliga, the 18 stadiums in the league are now equipped

communications system will be used in all 306 2.

with the appropriate Artist and Bolero hardware, while the

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Retractable roof over No.1 Court at Wimbledon (c)AELTC/Bob Martin

A winning double at Wimbledon Retractable pitch at Tottenham Hotspur (c)THFC

We are proud to have worked alongside the All England Lawn Tennis Club to engineer and install our second retractable roof at Wimbledon, this time over the iconic No.1 Court.

May play continue, whatever the weather.

We also created and installed the world-first dividing retractable pitch – and grow lights – at Tottenham Hotspur’s stunning new stadium, the pivoting seats at Wembley, the removable crossing at Ascot, and much more besides…

Pivoting seats at Wembley

Find out more at scxspecialprojects.co.uk Removable course crossing at Ascot

COMMUNICATIONS

Riedel support capabilities in the ROC have been raised

flexibility for any scenario.”

to an entirely new level. The ROC now offers space for

The new ROC also sets new reliability standards because

12 audio specialists who can monitor up to 10 matches

every component is completely redundant. The core

simultaneously on any given Bundesliga matchday.

technology is located in the Riedel data center, which

For the improved room concept, Riedel relied on the

operates independently thanks to a backup power

processing power of the new RSP-1232HL SmartPanel,

generator. Even in the event of a major power failure, the

whose user-friendly interface enables the Riedel team to

real-time monitoring of the football matches remains

optimise their workflows. The ROC operators benefit from

completely unaffected.

the patented Hybrid Lever Keys and the phase-accurate

“For us, the future of sports production lies in managed

stereo loudspeakers of the highly customisable panel. In

sports services and remote management. The ROC

addition to 12 RSP-1232HL SmartPanels, 12 RCP-1028

significantly reduces the personnel and logistical

panels, and six RCP-1128 panels, the team also uses 12

production effort for us and our partners, while enabling

2300-Series SmartPanels equipped with the MediorNet

unrestricted transmission security and the highest service

Control App.

quality,” said Carsten. “The incredible response to our

“With the MediorNet Control App we can access the video

cooperation with the DFL empowers us to apply the concept

signals from the Cologne VAC from here and distribute

of central control management to other applications. With

the live images to our screens. At the same time, we

our expanded ROC, we are already prepared for future

can quickly reconfigure the panels to customise each

projects.”

monitoring position to the operator’s needs,” said Carsten Voßkühler, Project Manager at Riedel. “With panels from the 1000-, 1100-, 2300-, and 1200-Series, we have absolute

BRAND: Riedel Communications | WEBSITE: www.riedel.net 108

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ARCHITECTURE

WUYUANHE STADIUM Hainan, China

Images: Marcus Bredt & Schran Images

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uyuanhe Stadium is the first major sports venue to be built on the tropical island of Hainan, China.

Situated in the provincial capital of Haikou, the stadium was conceived to host national and

international sports competitions, as well as cultural events.

Designed by the architectural office, von Gerkan, Marg and Partner (gmp) the arena is regarded as the first milestone in the implementation of an overall master plan for a comprehensive cultural and sports district, located east of the city’s new administrative headquarters.

The region’s characteristically tropical landscape and the special demands resulting from Haikou’s urban structure required an unusual approach to the stadium design. The architects harmoniously integrated the large building volume into a newly-created natural and cultural landscape that extends as far as the ocean on its northeast side. Four streamlined ramps built along the building’s diagonal axis draw spectators into the stadium interior in a continuation of the flowing structures of the natural environment.

The height of the building diminishes from west to east.

Its asymmetry is a response to the specific local conditions and is intended to maximise the number of valuable seats in the western grandstand facing the ocean. In addition to the impressive view, the shape of the arena permits natural shading and ventilation. Approximately 41,000 seats are distributed over two tiers on the west side and one tier on the east side.

The western section contains facilities for athletes and media, while the eastern section accommodates commercial and VIP areas. A 400-metre long track encircles the playing field in the stadium’s centre. From a two-metre wide, ring-shaped viewing platform at the upper end of the grandstands, visitors can walk around the stadium as though on a panorama trail and enjoy views of the city and ocean. Two prominent, 60-metre high floodlight poles on the east side provide additional lighting for events.

ARCHITECTURE

The building’s supporting structure must withstand extreme weather conditions and heavy rain. In collaboration with engineers from schlaich bergermann partner (sbp), gmp developed a special roof construction. A crescentshaped membrane roof that measures 270-metres long and 65-metres deep, with a surface area of about 10,000 sq metres, spans the western grandstand. The membranes translucent material allows daylight to penetrate the interior. The roof is constructed of two external compression rings and one internal tension ring.

Wuyuanhe Stadium meets the conditions of the two-star standard for green building in China. Its sustainability concept includes among other things, a rainwater utilisation system that diverts the water into an underground basin at a capacity of 700 litres per second.

Based on a construction method typical of Hainan’s tropical climate, a breathable façade made of silver-white, anodized aluminium louvers provides spectators with shade/partial shade and comfortable temperatures even when exposed to bright sunlight and wet weather.

The new Wuyuanhe Stadium is a perfect addition to the ever-growing cultural and sports city in Hainan.

Accomodating not only the local community, but also a new wave of local sport, the stadium offers exciting prospects for the future of creativity and leisure in Hainan.

ARCHITECT: von Gerkan, Marg and Partner (gmp) Architects | ENGINEERS: schlaich bergermann partner (sbp) | WEBSITES: www.gmp-architekten.com, www.sbp.de 112

09 EXTRA TIME

EXPO

EVENT DIARY

114 FSB Report

128 Conferences & Exhibitions

116 ISE Preview 120 Sound of Tottenham Hotspur | JBL Pro 122 Product Launch | MAG Audio

PRODUCT FOCUS 124 AEON LED 125 NEXO

126 soft-LED

FULL TIME 130 Anna Roberts, Group Marketing Manager, Tripleplay

114

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EXTRA TIME

FSB 2019 SB 2019, which drew to a close in Cologne on 8 November 2019 after four days, confirmed itself as the global industry tradeshow for sports and leisure facilities.

The event was able to replicate the impressive results of the previous edition and, at the same time, realise the ambitious goals set for more internationality and higher-quality in terms of supply and demand. FSB also recorded a significant rise in decision makers working in architecture, local authorities, planning and sports in Germany, as well as from domestic clubs and associations.

“FSB has raised its already exceptionally high-level considerably once again. By following a future-oriented concept and covering the latest major issues, it has succeeded in attracting even more industry experts to Cologne. It is a clear statement confirming that the event is the most internationally important communication and business platform,” said Matthias Pollmann, Vice President of Koelnmesse.

Nearly 28,000 visitors from 128 countries saw for themselves the exceptional capacity for innovation of the 565 exhibiting companies from 43 countries.

IAKS, the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities, which acts as FSB’s conceptual sponsor, was also very satisfied with the tradeshow’s performance: “The huge diversity of information at the IAKS Congress and FSB Cologne make them the place to be for experts and decision makers from the international sports and leisure facilities industry,”commented Dr Stefan Kannewischer, President of IAKS. Against this backdrop, the IAKS Congress was an immense

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success. Taking “Facilitating an active world” as its central theme this year, the congress focussed on global trends and presented pioneering projects in the areas of sports and leisure facilities, pools, amenity areas and urban design. Over the four days of the congress, 41 international experts from nine countries presented architectural and operational solutions for athletic peak performance, health consciousness and an active lifestyle. Around 470 participants from 36 countries listened to lectures on subjects such as attractive exercise spaces, sustainability, financing models and economic benefits.

The trade fair duo of FSB and aquanale recorded a significant increase in visitor numbers, with this year’s figure up to 28,000.

The events also saw a significant increase in terms of the internationality of the trade visitors, with the proportion of visitors from outside Germany rising from 62% in 2017 to 67%.

All of the market-leading companies from Germany and abroad presented their offerings at FSB 2019. A striking feature of the event was the near-complete presence of national and international artificial turf suppliers, who turn Cologne into the world’s largest “artificial turf trade fair”.

In light of the considerable numbers of exhibitors in the artificial turf segment participating in the event, FSB introduced the RECYCLING Forum for the first time. Highlighting the issue of sustainability, the forum focused on the life-cycle perspective of artificial surfaces as part of a special event. The central issue for the forum was recycling artificial surfaces (artificial turfs, fall protection, running tracks), which will pose a growing challenge for local authorities, associations and clubs in coming years.

FSB will return on 26-29 October 2021.

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ISE AMSTERDAM 11 - 14th February 2020

ntegrated Systems Europe is one

The four-day show features a huge show floor,

year’s event will be the last one held at RAI in

of the world’s largest exhibitions

comprehensive education and development

Amsterdam, as 2021 will see the show move

for audiovisual and systems

programmes, conferences, world class

to the Fira de Barcelona exhibition complex,

integration in the world.

speakers and a multitude of affiliated and

allowing ISE to meet show demands and adapt

Beginning in 2004, the event has collectively

partner events.

to the ever-growing popularity as the new

welcomed more than 1,300 exhibitors and

ISE 2020 is confidently expected to be the

venue will accomodate thousands of attendees

over 81,000 visitors to the RAI in Amsterdam,

biggest in the show’s history, with more

across 400,000 sq metres of floor space and 14

progessing significantly year on year.

attendees and exhibitors than ever before. This

halls.

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LEDCON LED DISPLAYS Hall 8 - stand C350 www.ledcon.de •

• • •

LEDCON Systems offer professional consulting, creative ideas and target-oriented solutions from the first contact to the completion of the project.

Flagship projects 2016 – LEDCON implemented the videocube / Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen with a total size of 305.28 sq metres.

Flagship project 2017 - the Allianz Arena in Munich was equipped with 480 sq metre LEDCON LED-Displays in 4K resolution.

NovaStar Campus – LEDCON Systems founded the official NovaStar CAMPUS in 2016 in order to provide customers and users of NovaStar’s products with specialist knowledge about controlling in conjunction with LEDCON LED displays.

BIAMP COMMUNITY LVH-900 Hall 1 - stand H140 www.biamp.com • • • • •

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Variable dispersion, high output, arrayable point source loudspeaker, designed for exceptional performance in large venues.

First-of-a-kind beamforming venue horn with extensive coverage capability that allows it to acoustically excel in multi-cabinet arrays.

Scalable for use in any size application, indoor or outdoor, including houses of worship, auditoriums and sports venues.

Exceptional sound quality and unmatched intelligibility at maximum output levels.

Combines point source fidelity with ease of use and flexibility of a line array.

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DANLEY J7-95 www.danleysoundlabs.com •

• • • •

The J7-95 is a single source, high output loudspeaker capable of covering very large audiences with ultra clear and consistent audio.

The loudspeaker uses fewer amplifier channels.

Ease of deployment making it great for installation and live.

More fidelity.

Higher output and tighter pattern control.

D.A.S. AUDIO ICON-206A AND S15A Hall 7- stand E227 www.dasaudio.com • • • • •

Double 6.5-inches symmetrical, ultra-compact, lightweight (36 lb).

Uniform 100º horizontal coverage and FIR filers.

Two channel class D amplifier 800W and IP43 rated.

FAST-SET-SPLAY and LCD screen (DASControl).

Flyable single 15-inch wooden cabinet subwoofer, 1200W.

APG IX SERIES Hall 3 - stand B120 www.apg.audio •

•

• •

The range is based on the coaxial concept and combines its drivers with a non-diffraction acoustic baffling that allows to get pure point source directivity.

The iX line is made up of five coaxial loudspeaker models: iX5, iX6, iX8, iX12 and iX15; all of which are two-way acoustic loudspeakers loaded in bass-reflex for low frequency extension. iX loudspeakers can be combined with Uniline and Uniline Compact systems.

The range will be extended with other models of “pseudo-coaxial” loudspeakers which will be optimised for vocal applications.

KSS AGORA - Room E102 www.kssgroup.com •

• •

•

•

Chartered architects, interior, and graphic design practice formed in 1991 and based in central London and Sevenoaks, Kent.

Internationally recognised as specialising in the design of major sports stadia, indoor arenas and training centres.

Full range of sports design consultancy services in master planning, architecture, interior design, graphic design, branding and wayfinding.

Users of the latest technology to produce better buildings in terms of design and construction, operation, energy performance and sustainability, risk reduction and facilities management.

28 years of experience in sports design. Key highlights include No.1 Court at Wimbledon, Al Rayyan Stadium in Qatar, Stade Océane in France, Sammy Ofer Stadium in Israel, Liverpool FC Training Centre, Leicester City FC Training Centre, Amex Community Stadium in Brighton, Main Stand Development at Anfield and East Stand Development at Twickenham.

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BELDEN MPO SOLUTION Hall 10 - stand P120 www.belden.com • • • • •

Micro tactical cable with 24 or 48 fibres, aluminium-hard-anodised hermaphroditic.

Contains two or four MTBase-12/APC and patch panels with 12 or 24 LC/UPC Duplex connectors.

Rugged yet flexible construction for reliable outdoor performance and improved flexibility and resiliency.

Faster, easier installation – even with repeat use.

The micro tactical fibre optic cable is future proof for 10/40/100G.

L-ACOUSTICS A SERIES Hall 7 - stand X200 & demo room E103 www.l-acoustics.com At the show L-Acoustics will be: • Demoing its new A Series install version.

• Showing its soon to ship LS10 Avnu-certified AVB switch.

• Showing a new loudspeaker product.

• Announcing a new tool specifically designed for the install market.

TW AUDIO ELLA Hall 7 - stand E226 www.ella-inside.com • • •

• •

The unparalleled synthesis between an unobtrusive column and a flexible line array.

World-first passive cardioid dispersion technology for drastically reduced rear emissions.

Exceptional driver development guarantees an outstanding hi-fi, high-SPL listening experience with 120° horizontal coverage.

Integrated invisible rigging hardware with captive parts and smooth operation.

Striking dimensions (20 × 20 cm, 5.5kg | 7.9-inches × 7.9-inches, 12.1 lbs) allow easy handling and discreet application for touring and install.

ROE BLACK QUARTZ LED PANEL Hall 12 - stand F80 www.roevisual.com • • • •

•

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The Black Quartz LED panel is small-pitched, full-fledged, and suitable for in and outdoor use.

Black Quartz LED panels have an integrated wind-bracing system for safety.

Using Black LED, Black Quartz sports a high contrast ratio and wide colour gamut.

Common Cathode technology significantly reduces panel temperature, resulting in efficient heat-dissipation, reduced colour differences and higher brightness.

The rigid frame of the Black Quartz LED panels enables flawless connection of even the smallest 3.91mm pixel pitch.

17 JUNE 2020 LAS VEGAS ENTER YOUR STADIUM OR ARENA PROJECT NOW M O N D O D R AWA R D S . C O M

SPONSORS

SOUND OF TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR | JBL PRO ocated in the colourful suburb of Tottenham, North London, is a sparkling silver, futuristic spaceship that, each week, holds 62,000 passionate football fans. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is a wondrous time capsule that has gripped everything excellent about football and set a new benchmark for stadium design. The unique ground doesn’t just house football, American football and rugby, it also has its own brewery, shop and screening room, complemented by an all-new JBL sound system.

MONDO | STADIA was invited along to the stadium in early November 2019 to join HARMAN and JBL at an event celebrating the state-of-the-art audio the stadium has been equipped with. Leading the Sound of Tottenham Hotspur 2019

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and subsequent presentations was Ryan Penny, Senior Business Development Manager, Large Venues, EMEA at HARMAN, who was there from the very beginning of the project. “This was a big project for JBL but it has been an amazing experience. The brief we were given was to be the best in the world,” he said.

“The Tottenham Hotspur team’s slogan is ‘to dare is to do’ and at JBL it is ‘dare to listen’, so it was inevitable that we would work well together.”

Joining him on stage was Mark Murphy, Project Director at Vanguardia, Eddie Thomas, Vice President, Integrated Projects at SSE Audio and Adam Shoker, Production Leader at Tottenham Stadium. All heavily involved with the project, they discussed the importance of embracing ambition and the extensive

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teamwork between everyone involved. With sound being integral to any stadium and sporting experience, the audio utilises every square metre of the stadium: “It was like designing a small town!” exclaimed Mark. The panel were also open to questions from the audience, delving deeper into the unique audiovisal integration inside the venue.

After the presentations, JBL demonstrated the full system to a crowd of press, manufacturers and distributors alike. Even with only a handful of people sat in the spectator seats, the audio itself managed to emulate that of a jam-packed, roaring match day.

Comprising 18 line arrays of varying length to complement the stands and roof, the stadium is the first in Europe to have installed the new JBL VLA compact loudspeaker solution. Each array has three JBL VLA-C125S subwoofers to generate an exceptional audio experience with the ability to immerse fans in each game, without disturbing the district that surrounds the sci-fi invention, something that was high on the agenda when the stadium was designed: “We had to keep in mind the area in which the stadium is in. We

wanted amazing sound inside the grounds, but we also had to minimise the spill out into the surrounding areas,” explained Ryan.

On the day, attendees were also treated to an exclusive tour of the interstellar interior of the stadium. As well as the amazing main pitch, the ground also houses an executive VIP lounge that is used for DJ’s and live acts as well as hosting members, pre and post matches. The scope and size of Tottenham stadium is truly breathtaking, and this is displayed by everything from the exclusive audio experience in every corner of the stadium, to the state-of-the-art changing areas that have advanced and addressed even the finer details of this incredible sport.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has set a new benchmark for sporting venue design, especially in the UK. This spectacular stadium incorporates innovative architecture, sound design, video and creativity as it now excels industry standards. The main goal was to be the best in the world, and Tottenham Hotspur stadium is certainly one to look up to in the world of sport stadiums.

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PRODUCT LAUNCH | MAG AUDIO astern European loudspeaker manufacturer, MAG Audio, presented MAG MUST at the biggest arena in Ukraine - the 70,000-seat NSC Olimpiyskiy Stadium, Kyiv.

MAG MUST (short for multiple uniform sound technology) offers rental companies the benefit of using only one line-array format, eliminating the need for bothersome stock and complex logistics. The ground-breaking technology is based on the scalable eight-inch MAG Wasp line-array, which allows sound engineers to create uniform sound coverage across a venue of any size, whether its a small bar venue or a large stadium.

“We intended to create technology that can change the

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approach to using small-format line arrays,” explained Igor Sydorenko, Systems Engineer at MAG Audio. “Today, manufacturers offer lines of products depending on the target event size - starting from compact arrays and up to the largeformat ones. But we consider this approach outdated, so we decided to design the technology that can serve the needs of any client, regardless of the event’s demands.”

The technicians had built an impressive stage, 65-metres in length, which incorporated two big LED screens on each side.

Such a huge venue called for a nuanced approach to the project design, so MAG Audio engineers conducted extensive research and tests to get the best out of MAG MUST.

The MAG MUST consists of two line array loudspeakers (24 MAG Wasp tops and 12 Wasp S-12 subwoofers per each side of the stage) as PA; two-line array loudspeakers made up of 16 MAG Wasp tops each as out-fills; 48 H28 subwoofers lined in the end-fire configuration, and eight MAG Wasp tops deployed as front-fills. Four tops MAG Wasp and two wasp S-12 on each side were deployed as side-fills; four Focus 12, four Focus 15, two Focus SUB ensured on-stage monitoring.

Eight delay towers ensured smooth sound coverage over the entire venue. Four delay towers provided sound to the back of the field (fanzone two) and consisted of eight MAG Wasp tops and three Wasp S-12 subwoofers each. The other four towers had to provide sound over the grandstand, so each of them consisted of 16 MAG Wasp tops and eight Wasp S-12 subwoofers.

All the systems were amplified with 32 Powersoft amplifiers: a total of 20 Racks with 22 X8 Dante, four X4 Dante, six T604. Dante Network provided signal routing through all the amplifiers, providing excellent sound quality and reliability.

Based on the scalable line array loudspeaker, MAG Wasp eight-inch, the solution became the first to create uniform

sound coverage across the listening area with just 1.5dB of SPL variation and subsequently broke the national record for the minimal SPL variation at one location.

Even sound coverage was achieved by increasing the number of sound sources. The MAG Audio engineers set several delay lines and increased the number of acoustic systems in every line array.

This way, the seemingly compact MAG Wasp eight-inch system, filled a surprisingly large venue, carrying sound to the back of the stadium even better than conventional large-format systems.

The technology made its public debut the day after the presentation, for Favorit Sports 20th birthday concert. The concert hosted over 40,000 attendees and featured a range of popular artists.

Andrii Tsistanov, Verka Serduchka’s Sound Engineer said: “MAG MUST is more efficient than big format loudspeaker systems. It’s loud enough and creates great uniform sound coverage across the listening area. In my opinion, this idea has great potential, as the technology can be applied for any venues imaginable.” www.mag-audio.com

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AEON LED | SPORTS LUMINAIRE esigned specifically for municipal, high school, collegiate and professional indoor arenas and outdoor stadiums. The AEON Sports Luminaire has an incredibly long life span of over 100,000 hours. Available in five different LED delivered lumen packages: 33,100lm, 44,100lm, 62,100lm, 73,500lm and 105,000lm, the AEON Luminaire has multi voltage options, too, including 100227VAC and 347-480VAC. The light is fully enclosed, protecting sensitive electronic components from any external elements, and is suitable for use in corrosive environments that can withstand extreme conditions. Using AEON’s propriety and patented thermal management system, AEON allows for continuous airflow, keeping critical electronic components cool. Revolutionary patented Aerodynamic Design allows maximum wind resistance, reducing vibration and subsequent flickering of light.

With CRI>85, the AEON Sports Luminaire has the highest CRI in its class with 140 lumens per watt delivered. The AEON Sports Luminaire maintains a UGR <19, similar to the nominal glare that you would receive through indoor lighting. AEON is adaptable to various intelligent lighting controls, wired or wireless. Available in various NEMA Beam Spreads, the AEON Sports Luminaire also incorporates field changeable lenses and drivers, integrated on an easy-to-use quick connect / disconnect system, making it optimal for different sports and class of play.

With enhanced, glare-free illumination and various beam spreads, AEON minimises shadows and provides crisp illumination of the playing surface while avoiding any uncomfortable sensation or visual discomfort for the players or

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spectators.

AEON’s proprietary optics produce the ideal distribution and beam angles for sports lighting, all while saving you up to 65% in energy use compared to traditional sports lighting.

Engineered with state-of-the-art technology, the AEON sports luminaire is the ideal choice for 4K, Ultra HD and HDTV broadcasting, digital photography and flicker-free slow-motion recording for optimal television and live audience viewing.

AEON’s fixtures also use HyLink, a wireless lighting control solution that enables considerable energy savings and lowers operating costs by automating, customising and controlling the behaviour of the lights. Built for easy installation and use, HyLink doesn’t require internet access and can scale to hundreds of fixtures, all controlled by a single site controller.

HyLink is powered by an encrypted, self-forming, self-healing SNAP Mesh Network and provides a reliable, secure foundation for a lighting network. www.aeonledlighting.com

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NEXO | P12 ith its curvy modern aesthetic and best-in-class performance specifications, NEXO’s new P12 is an ultra-versatile multi-purpose loudspeaker, bringing ingenious technical innovation to a wide range of sound reinforcement applications.

Surprisingly, given NEXO’s long-standing global reputation for pointsource loudspeakers, this is the first time the company has designed a 12-inch enclosure. The much-anticipated P12 promises to establish a new benchmark for the all-purpose point-source cabinet that can deliver at FOH, on stage, and as part of a distributed system.

Inside the curvilinear enclosure of custom birch and poplar plywood, the P12 employs a purpose-designed 12-inch low frequency Neodymium driver and three-inch diaphragm high frequency driver in a coaxial configuration. The cabinet footprint is very compact, measuring 531mm x 432mm x 317mm. Frequency response is 60Hz20kHz, and the SPL is an impressive 138dB peak (passive) / 140dB peak (active mode), making it the most powerful point-source design in its class in today’s market.

In an innovative design twist which allows the user to customise his or her P12 cabinet, the horn flanges can be interchanged to deliver a variety of directivities – from the 60x 60 that is provided as standard, to a 90x 40 or an asymmetrical 50- 100x 40. (The interchangeable flanges are marketed as accessories.) Switching between different directivities can be accomplished in just 15 seconds, easily removing the steel grille and replacing the flare, which uses a magnetic fixing.

Less than 20kg in weight, the ergonomic design of the P12 includes carry handles on each side, pole-mount fitting with an ingeniouslypositioned Speakon connector behind it to allow tidy cable management, and threaded inserts for connection of mounting accessories. P12 can be used on a pole-mount with the L15 subbass cabinet, wall-mounted or flown in landscape mode beneath a L15 enclosure, using a specially-designed yoke bracket.

NEXO expects that one of the principal applications of the new P12 enclosure will be on stage as the most versatile wedge monitor

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loudspeaker on the market. The variable directivity feature will effectively treble the deployment of any inventory of P12 floor monitors, and the cabinet is designed for the rigours of touring use, with an extra-robust grille and scratch-resistant paint finish. Denis Baudier, Sales Director of NEXO, describes the P12 monitor as: “lower profile and definitively sexier than any competitive product. For a vocalist, there is better dispersion because of the angle of the cabinet, and variable dispersion means each box can be precisely tailored to its user, from lead guitarist to horn section to backing singer.”

With a switch on the back of the cabinet, the P12 is easy to reconfigure from passive to active mode, where it achieves 140dB Peak SPL. This is the first NEXO loudspeaker to be purpose-designed to use the processing capacity of the new NXAMP4x2mk2 amplifier, although it is fully compatible with the larger NXAMP4x4. The processing in the NXAMP4x2mk2 is very precise, with separate set-ups for each directivity providing perfect coverage.

To partner the P12, NEXO is launching the L15 subbass cabinet, specially designed in a matching footprint which makes it ideal for flown applications, and for use as a drumfill. With a new acoustic loading technique using a 15-inch bass horn, the L15 operates with maximum efficiency: nearly all the front face of the cabinet is used as a radiating surface to provide really impressive output. With a frequency range of 40Hz-120Hz, and 139dB Peak SPL, this subwoofer measures up as the most powerful in its category in the market.

Touring and installation versions of the P12 and its partner L15 subwoofer will be produced in black and white scratch-resistant paint finishes, the first use of a new paint process which is described by Joseph Carcopino, NEXO’s head of R&D, as “100 times better than before”. Applied using a special process, the paint finish prepares the P12 for use in all climate conditions, and enables it to deal robustly with the demands of stage monitoring use. TUV and IP54 certification is provided for the installation version of the P12. www.nexo-sa.com

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SOFT-LED | SMART ARENA MART ARENA, developed and produced by the Austrian company soft-LED System, is a very intelligent and flexible new LED-floodlight for large area lighting. The unique combination between proven reflector technique and high-performance LED-pointlightsources allows high lumen-output and perfect uniformity without light scatter or glare. SMART ARENA indeed benchmarks for outstanding uniformity of illuminance.

Just put in a nutshell: The results of the official photometry test carried out in the recent project – a soccer and American football pitch in Austria – show a ratio of uniformity of illuminance G1 (min/medium) of 0,85 and a ratio of uniformity of illuminance G2 (min/max) 0,75. No other stadium in Austria will outmatch the new lighting in this respect!

Next advantage of SMART ARENA: Flexibility. Due to requirement of project any optic between 10° and 120° can be chosen. This means high flexibility for planners of sport and event facilities as nearly any lighting requirements can be met.

SMART ARENA is completely flicker free and meets all standards for modern television - HD, UHD/4K and super slow motion.

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Colour rendering index amounts to Ra 97 and television lighting consistency Index TLC scores with 95. Film and photo producers fall immediately in love with SMART ARENA as soon as they find out the technical data.

There are two dimming solutions available: DMX/RDM – dimming smoothly and zero flicker - and SWITCH dimming offering up to five dimming scenarios programmed individually due to customers’ needs where no extra cabling is necessary.

Last point: SMART ARENA is elegant, compact in size and it’s smart - as controlled by microprocessors any requirement and standards needed by the customer will be implemented: active heat management, daylight control or integration into event lighting system.

The Austrian company soft-LED System is known for excellent engineering solutions and provides a reliable track record of implemented projects. Worldwide famous institutions like Wiener Musikverein and Wiener Staatsoper rely on their expertise. www.smart-arena.com

31 MARCH 2020 FRANKFURT

ENTER YOUR STADIUM OR ARENA PROJECT NOW M O N D O D R AWA R D S . C O M

SPONSORS

EVENT DIARY 2020

ESSMA Summit 21st - 22nd January, Budapest, Hungary www.essmasummit.eu

NAB Show 18th - 22nd April, Las Vegas, USA www.nabshow.com

International Sports Convention 17th - 18th June, London, England www.internationalsportsconvention.com

Integrated Systems Europe 11th - 14th February, Amsterdam, Netherlands www.iseurope.org

The Stadium Business Summit 21st - 22nd April, Manchester, England www.stadiumbusinesssummit.com

ALSD Conference 21st - 24th June, Dallas, Texas www.alsd.com

International Federations Summit 11th - 12th February, Lausanne, Switzerland www.majoreventsinternational.com

Coliseum APAC May 2020, Beijing, China www.coliseum-online.com

WFS Asia 1st - 2nd July, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia asia.worldfootballsummit.com

MONDO | STADIA presents AGORA 13th February, Amsterdam, Netherlands www.mondostadia-agora.com

Football Innovation Forum 29th May, Istanbul, Turkey fif.worldfootballsummit.com

PLASA Show 6th - 8th September, London, England www.plasashow.com

WFS Africa 17th - 18th March, Durban, South Africa africa.worldfootballsummit.com

Major Events Summit 10th - 11th June, Birmingham, England www.majoreventsinternational.com

IBC 11th - 15th September, Amsterdam, Netherlands show.ibc.org

Coliseum Summit Europe 25th - 26th March, London, England www.coliseum-online.com

InfoComm 13th - 19th June, Las Vegas, USA www.infocommshow.org

Prolight+Sound 31st March - 3rd April, Frankfurt, Germany www.pls.messefrankfurt.com

MONDO | STADIA presents AGORA June 2020, Las Vegas, USA www.mondostadia-agora.com

WFS 2020 23rd - 24th September, Madrid, Spain www.worldfootballsummit.com

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WORLD FOOTBALL SUMMIT elcome to World Football Summit! Bienvenidos a World Football Summit!

Jan Alessie, Director of WFS, said these words for the first time in October 2016 during the opening ceremony of WFS’ first event. That congress gathered 60 speakers and over 1,200 attendees in Madrid. Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, CEO of Atlético de Madrid, and Javier Tebas, President of LaLiga, were among the leaders that took the stage in that first event held in Complejo Duques de Pastrana (Madrid, Spain).

It’s only been three years since that first kick-off, but WFS has grown to become an international reference. The platform has hosted a total of eight events since then, gathering nearly 600 international leaders and almost 10,000 attendees.

In 2019, WFS started its International expansion with the first edition of WFS Asia, which took place in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) with over 100 speakers and 1,600 attendees. The summit gathered international attendees from over 60 different countries, more than 70 football clubs and 22 exhibitors.

There was an impressive line-up of the most recognizable and influential names in the football world including Dato’ Windsor John, General Secretary of the AFC, Oscar Mayo, International Director at LaLiga, Luis Vicente, Chief Digital Transformation & Innovation Officer at FIFA, Michael Higham, Head of Partnerships at Sevilla FC, Pere Guardiola, Founder and CEO at Media Base Sports, Robert Klein, CEO at Bundesliga International GMBH, Jun Zhao, CEO at China Sports Media, Sebastien Wasels, Managing Director Asia Pacific at PSG, or Jordi Camps, Managing Director, APAC HQ at FC Barcelona.

Following the success of its Asian edition, in 2020 WFS will land in Durban (South Africa) for the first ever WFS Africa, conciding with the 10th aniversary of the historical 2010 FIFA World Cup. The event will bring together 80 speakers and 1,500 attendees at the Durban International Convention Center (ICC).

WFS Africa, that will mix the global industry’s big topics with the specific challenges of the region, will be the first of the four events that WFS has confirmed for 2020. It will take place on March 17th and 18th and the tickets are already available at www.worldfootballsummit.com. The Super Early Bird 50 percent discount expires on December 31st.

Fatma Samoura, Secretary General of FIFA and General Delegate for Africa, is the headline name of the first speaker lineup, which includes global industry leaders such as LaLiga President,

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Javier Tebas, and World Leagues Forum Secretary General, Jerome Perlemuter, as well as regional figures such as South African Football Association (SAFA) President, Danny Jordaan.

Sihle Zikalala, the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, the province where host city Durban is located, is among the main figures of this stellar lineup to which many more names will be added in the upcoming weeks.

As is the norm at WFS, representatives from clubs, leagues and federations will take the stage, as well as the leading brands and companies that are linked to the industry. That includes Sky Sports, represented in this initial lineup by David Garrido, or sporting news site Goal.com, represented by Managing Editor for Africa, Steve Blues.

As Jan explains: “Africa is a continent where there is a passion for football like few others and we believe that behind this passion and truly genuine way of experiencing sport, there are great business opportunities that can benefit both the companies involved in this sector and the general population.

With the launch of WFS Africa, we hope to contribute to the strengthening of an industry that benefits all of society.”

According to data from Nielsen, Africa is the continent where football is followed with the greatest interest; Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa are the three countries in the world where the beautiful game is played the most.

Two months later, on May 29th, Istanbul (Turkey) will host the second Football Innovation Forum (FIF), an invite-only event focused on innovation in football that kicked-off last year in Madrid in collaboration with UEFA and that, once again, will be held in the host city of the Champions League final on the eve of Europe’s most awaited match of the year.

WFS Asia will return to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) con the 1st and 2nd of July, while WFS20, the fifth Edition of the flagship event, will take place on September 23rd and 24th in Teatro Goya (Madrid).

WFS EVENTS FOR 2020: - WFS AFRICA (Durban, South Africa): 17 & 18 March - FOOTBALL INNOVATION FORUM (Istanbul, Tukey): 29 May - WFS ASIA (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia): 1 & 2 July - WFS 2020 (Madrid, España): 23 & 24 September www.worldfootballsummit.com

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09 FULL TIME ANNA ROBERTS | TRIPLEPLAY

What do Tripleplay do?

Tripleplay is a comprehensive content management system, delivering digital signage, IPTV and video streaming solutions within large venues and arena environments. Tripleplay enables the distribution of engaging media content and live video to visitors during match days, increasing dwell time, enhancing fan experience and generating a measurable return on investment.

2019 has been a year of significant change for Tripleplay, mainly due to its acquisition by Uniguest and merger with ONELAN. Together with ONELAN, Tripleplay now becomes the largest Digital Signage and IPTV platform available in the audiovisual market and a true power-house within the industry.

Which sporting venue projects have you worked on recently?

2019 has been a big year for Tripleplay in the sports world.

We have installed our solution at over 30 stadiums and arenas across the globe. Some of our new client sites include: Qudos Bank Arena, Coca-Cola Arena, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, MetLife Arena, The NEC Birmingham, Anoeta Stadium, Rod Laver Arena and many more.

What are Tripleplayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aims over the next few years?

Aim 1: To unify the Tripleplay and ONELAN offering to deliver the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most innovative digital signage, IPTV and video streaming platform. Aim 2: To promote the concept that Tripleplay is more than just a digital signage and IPTV product, it is a feature rich and comprehensive content management platform. Aim 3: To continue to develop the product based off genuine and invaluable feedback from our clients within the sports and arena industry Favourite sporting venue?

Twickenham Stadium because of their innovative outlook and passion to deliver a truly connected stadium with the fan at the centre of the match day experience. Using Tripleplay technology, they integrated their digital menu boards powered by our digital signage and integrated PMS platform, enabling directional signage to appear when high number of transactions were monitored, moving people to quieter areas of the grounds and allowing them to be served much faster.

Next big thing in terms of sporting venue technology?

I think, particularly in EMEA, stadiums and arenas are looking to use engagement technology to follow the American model of fan interaction on match days. There is a real desire for venues to mirror the American fan experience - this model provides venues with a greater likelihood of increasing revenue and generating a tangible return on investment and forces venues to prioritise their digital marketing strategy.

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