mondo | stadia - Issue 06

SHANGHAI INT. CIRCUIT

OGN SUPER ARENA

JIM SMITH

SEATING FOCUS

Dynacord and Electro-Voice provide a state-of-the-art audio system for the Formula 1 race track.

California’s new eSports venue has opened, with Astro Spatial Audio providing immersive, 3D sound.

AECOM’s Associate Director gives us an insight into his career and the impressive stadiums he’s worked on.

We take a closer look at venues and products from the world of seating, including some upcoming projects.

ISSUE 06 - JUNE | JULY 2019

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR STADIUM | LONDON, ENGLAND CAPACITY: 62,062

Architectural drawings provided by Populous.

Enterprise Center – St. Louis, MO, USA

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20/05/2019 15:21:12

06 WELCOME

ottenham Hotspur Stadium has been the subject of much discussion, with the promise of, perhaps, being the best stadium in the world. Officially opening on 3rd April 2019, the club have simply let the stadium speak for itself - and it has to be said that they - along with everyone involved - have done a spectacular job. Modern, state-of-the-art technology and incredible facilities all geared towards the fans. It’s undoubtedly raised the bar in terms of stadium design. Turn to page 40 for our in-depth feature on the impressive venue.

Elsewhere, we spoke to Jim Smith, AECOM’s Associate Director, who discussed his career so far, including some of the incredible stadium projects he’s been involved in over the years. Definitely one to check out.

We’ve also covered the ADJ’s lighting installation at Lake Placid Olympic Center for the International Children’s Winter Games, Astro Spatial Audio’s project for the OGN Super Arena - a new eSports-specific venue - and the introduction of WaitTIme’s crowd intelligence software at Sydney Cricket Ground.

Also, be sure to check out our reports from World Football Summit Asia and World Stadium Congress.

We hope you enjoy ISSUE 06...

T

Sam Hughes Editor

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A JOINT VENTURE OF:

SHANGHAI INT. CIRCUIT

OGN SUPER ARENA

JIM SMITH

SEATING FOCUS

Dynacord and Electro-Voice provide a state-of-the-art audio system for the Formula 1 race track.

California’s new eSports venue has opened, with Astro Spatial Audio providing immersive, 3D sound.

AECOM’s Associate Director gives us an insight into his career and the impressive stadiums he’s worked on.

We take a closer look at venues and products from the world of seating, including some upcoming projects.

ISSUE 06 - JUNE | JULY 2019

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

Cover image courtesy of Populous

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

Deputy Editor Emma Bilardi e.bilardi@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

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

06 INSIDE…

TEAM TALK

006 Patrick Gornic, World Football Summit

m.capper@mondiale.co.uk

Managing Editor Rachael Rogerson-Thorley

j.gawne@mondiale.co.uk

Finance Director Amanda Giles

058 Ascot Racecourse | Ascot, England LIGHTING

066 Lake Placid Olympic Center | New York, USA

010 Craven Cottage | London, England

eSPORTS

012 Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia | Bergamo, Italy

074 OGN Super Arena | Los Angeles, USA

014 Stadion Polonii Warszawa | Warsaw, Poland

BROADCAST 080 EVS Round-Up | Åre / Östersund, Sweden

r.rogerson-thorley@mondiale.co.uk

CEO Justin Gawne

AUDIO

064 Shanghai International Circuit | Shanghai, China

DRAWING BOARD Mel Capper

VENUE FOCUS

086 UEFA Europa League Final | Baku, Azerbaijan

KICK OFF

CROWD INTELLIGENCE

016 Seating Focus

088 Sydney Cricket Ground | Sydney, Australia SIGNAGE 090 Citizen Banks Park | Philadelphia, USA

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

INTERVIEW

TURF / SPORTS FLOORING

026 Jim Smith, AECOM

096 ProPlay | Roermond, The Netherlands

Credit Control

034 Chris Mansell, GL events UK

ar@mondiale.co.uk

Group Chairman Damian Walsh MONDO | STADIA is published by Mondiale Publishing Limited, Strawberry Studios, Watson Square, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 161 476 8340 Printed By Buxton Press WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

EXTRA TIME THE FULL PITCH 040 Tottenham Hotspur Stadium | London, England

102 Goal Light Technology 103 Bose 106 Studio Technologies 107 World Football Summit Asia 110 World Stadium Congress 113 Event Diary 114 Full Time

PATRICK GORNIC, WORLD FOOTBALL SUMMIT New Stadiums for a New Era

Images: WFS ottenham Hotspur’s new stadium

least two events a year, and that often makes

engagement of fans a whole lot easier. Perhaps

is the confirmation that the football

sports the secondary event. The idea is not only

one of the biggest examples of this is the

industry has taken a path from

to make them profitable, but also to increase the

Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

which it can no longer come back.

revenue as much as possible, making stadiums

The Atlanta-based venue is a great example

Stadiums used to be an untouchable asset, a

serve as shopping malls, parking spaces or

of how a modern stadium should be. It hosts

monument that clubs reformed slowly just to

high-class restaurants.

several events from different sports, offering

keep them up as a sign of their history.

Little by little, as football stopped being ‘just a

complete flexibility and has recently decided

Although the industry was making profits, clubs

sport’ and started to think like an all-mighty

to become the first stadium in the world to go

weren’t making as much as one would think.

industry, clubs started thinking like companies

cashless.

Many experts and key players saw the need in

and realised that the scenario where their

Technology is now leading the way - there is

finding a way to make football profitable, or

players entertain millions of people is as

even talk of drones delivering beverages to the

at least a whole lot more than it used to be -

important as the football the team is playing.

attendees, making them skip the huge lines that

basing business models on other sports, such as

Basing it on the American model, understanding

we’re used to in a stadium.

basketball or American football.

that sport is part of showbiz, European clubs

With the idea of competing with competitions

One of the most profitable stadiums in the

started to focus on what American sports

such as the NBA or the NFL in mind, many top

world, Staples Center in Los Angeles, is a

franchises were doing - a huge part of it was

football clubs have completed - or are in the

great example of how to increase revenue

creating an event around the sport. It’s not just

process of - renovating their stadiums, with

significantly. It hosts around 140 matches per

about watching your favourite team any more

some building new venues altogether.

year, not counting play-offs, and stages major

- it’s about socialising, eating, drinking and

It’s difficult to imagine that in Italy, for

concerts. Offering a greater standard of luxury

dancing. American sports successfully engage

instance, most teams don’t own a venue and

and technology has allowed the venue to sell

the fan beyond the event - both before and after.

that the rival clubs, in cities like Rome or

premium tickets for over $100m in years like

In these sports, owners have started to

Milan, share one. Juventus, in the midst of its

2016 or 2017.

adapt and change their stadiums in order to

remodeling as a brand, was the club to lead the

According to Forbes, stadiums must host at

bring them to the 21st Century, making the

way in Italy’s new vision on stadia. Now, clubs

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TEAM TALK

like Roma have started to follow their lead in terms of owning their stadium. This might be a reason why revenue is lower than in other leagues such as Bundesliga or LaLiga.

This is a change that has started to happen in several different countries around Europe.

German, Spainish and English teams have also started to renovate their venues to bring the clubs into the 21st Century.

Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium is currently the clearest image of this revolution. It has a bakery, a microbrewery that will be able to serve up to 10,000 pints per minute and 65 food and drinks establishments with 878 cashless payment points.

Clubs have realised that fan engagement is the base of any success when it comes to stadiums - and they have started providing a first-class experience for visitors.

AtlĂŠtico de Madrid is yet another club that understands the importance of a state-of-theart venue, even if that means sacrificing a city centre location.

Wanda Metropolitano, winner of Best Venue

007

TEAM TALK

008

at the WFS Industry Awards 2018, is a highly

restaurant, shopping mall, retractable roof,

the digitalisation. Thousands of fans go there

modern stadium, offering an array of facilities

360º scoreboard and highlights screen.

every year and express their preferences with

for the benefit of the fans. Not only that, the

In a statement, Real Madrid explained the

food, merchandising or beverages. That’s what

stadium hosts several events throughout the

vision: ‘Football stadiums compete with the

stadiums are becoming - large databases where

year, such as concerts and different sports -

global entertainment industry and clubs have

analysts can study exactly what fans crave and

similar to the US venues. How many people

realised this’.

then put it into practice.

watch the Super Bowl because of its half-time

When asked about the importance of competing

At Real Madrid they are ‘aware that our

show? Clubs are trying to reach as many people

not only with different clubs, but with all types

customer is possibly our best product. Without

as they can.

of entertainment, they said that ‘football,

a doubt, the data today is an asset that both the

The main idea is to make it easier for the fans

mainly the one that is ‘manufactured’ live, is

fan and club have incorporated in as a magical

at a game or event to spend their full day at the

the valuable content that must be profitable -

asset that they didn’t used to have’.

venue, engaging with the stadium and event –

and it is in the stadiums where it is produced’.

It’s plain to see that football has industrialised

and, naturally, spending money. That’s exactly

The club know that ‘modern stadiums tend

itself and has realised the potential it has, not

what Florentino Pérez, President of Real Madrid

to be theme parks in total synergy and

only to compete with other sports, but with all

CF, had in mind when approving the remodeling

correspondence with the new technological

forms of entertainment.

of the Santiago Bernabéu.

devices that should offer the experience of

The LaLiga giants are expected to take

entertaining’.

modern stadia to the next level - Michelin star

Another important aspect of modern stadia is

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

Speaker Built in speaker for monitoring audio.

Control Buttons 7 buttons for transport controls, remote and 3D LUT.

LCD Display Shows video, transport controls, audio meters and menus.

Headphone 1/4" audio jack for monitoring audio with headphones.

In and Out Points Set in and out points for performing “tape to tape” style editing.

Cache Optional media cache for fail safe recording.

Transport controls Touchscreen transport controls for easy playback and record.

Audio meters Monitor up to 4 channels using VU or PPM metering.

Playback and Record Select Select which deck you want as a player or a recorder.

Transport controls Traditional broadcast deck transport controls.

Time Display Monitor deck timecode on clear LED display.

Shuttle/Jog Knob Large knob with electronic clutch for jog, shuttle and scrolling recordings.

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HyperDeck Extreme 8K HDR features full internal waveform monitoring. The waveform display shows traditional luminance levels of your video. The vectorscope display allows you to see the intensity of color. You also get RGB and YUV parade displays for color correction or illegal levels. Histogram shows highlights or shadows clipping. Plus all scopes are real time, even in 8K or HDR!

The innovative touch LCD user interface provides incredible control. You get dedicated buttons for play, stop and record, plus a mini timeline for scrolling through your recordings. The LCD includes display of timecode, video standard, media status as well as audio meters. You can even display real time scopes and focus and exposure assist tools. Plus you can load and save 3D LUTs!

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20/5/19 10:36 am

CRAVEN COTTAGE London, England

Renderings: Fulham FC / Populous

ulham Football Club has signed an agreement with lead contractor, Buckingham Group Contracting Ltd for the demolition and development of the Riverside Stand at Craven Cottage, which will commence this summer.

With the new stand in place, the seating capacity at the historic ground will increase, while amenities for the supporters and local residents will improve significantly, too.

The development, which has been designed by architects, Populous, will see a transformation of the riverside walkway into a worldclass leisure destination; a pathway that will allow an uninterrupted walk along the banks of the River Thames between Hammersmith and Putney Bridges and a choice of amenities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year.

Supporters will experience best-in-class offerings, with the stand incorporating contemporary designs, state-of-the-art concourses and hospitality lounges on matchdays. The design of the Riverside Stand is sympathetic to Fulham Football Club’s location, the River Thames and the environment.

Importantly, the Riverside development reaffirms Craven Cottage as the home of Fulham Football Club - both for now and future generations.

Throughout the two-year build, there will be on-going consultation with key stakeholders, and regular updates on the progress of the development will be made available.

Fulham FC’s Chairman, Shahid Khan said: “I am delighted to now be able to formally announce that our work on the Riverside Stand

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development will begin in earnest this summer.

“I understand today’s announcement was many years in the making, but the right thing for all parties was to be deliberate, collaborative and thorough. I thank our supporters for their patience, and am especially grateful to all those who have worked tremendously hard behind the scenes to bring us to this point. The wait will be worth it.

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to Councillor Stephen Cowan, Leader of the London borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, who has bent over backwards to make this happen.

“Craven Cottage is a unique and inspiring venue to not only play football, but to visit. As I noted upon becoming Chairman in 2013, it has always been my intention to follow through with the development of the Riverside Stand, and today’s news brings that intention to reality.

“Make no mistake, the Riverside development will be a location like no other, a real game-changer for Fulham Football Club, our neighbourhood, and all of London. Our aim is to create a worldclass destination for fans and guests to experience and enjoy, whilst retaining the charm that Craven Cottage exudes within our very own section of the River Thames. In doing so, we will also safeguard the Club’s future at Craven Cottage, forever the rightful home for Fulham.”

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Bergamo, Italy Images: Atlanta Begamo / De8 Architetti

fter an incredible season in which they qualified for the Champions League for the very first time, Atalanta will now see renovation begin on its stadium this summer.

In October 2018, the City of Bergamo reached an agreement for a building permit to complete a three-stage development project for Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia, Atalanta’s home since 1928.

Plans for the Serie A side’s new stadium have been discussed for years, however, they didn’t materialise until 2017 when the club purchased the historical Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia from the municipality. Soon after, the club released its official vision for the reconstruction, which was updated in 2019.

Atalanta enlisted the help of De8 Architetti, which has previously worked on renovation of two current stands and Atalanta’s training centre, to redesign the stadium.

The new stadium plans show an unusual shape, though this was unavoidable through historical constraints - both grandstands along the pitch are listed monuments. The decorative roofs and façades are protected - making for a challenging project. However, despite these obstacles, the plans are going ahead.

Supporters of the club were allowed to visit the Curva Nord ahead of its demolition. The new stand will include 37 rows of seating - and will

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no longer be curved as the stadium fully transitions into a footballspecific venue. The stand, which is the first out of three phases, is expected to cost 14m Euro. The total cost is likely to be worth€40m Euro - an increase of five million since initial estimates.

By mid-2020, the south stand should also be operational, while the east stand is expected to come last, as it is to be partly rebuilt within the existing historical stand’s footprint.

The new stadium - which is to be named Gewiss Arena after reconstruction as part of a commercial partnership - will have a total capacity of 23,370.

The whole project should be complete by 2021 after three full transition seasons.

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STADION POLONII WARSZAWA Warsaw, Poland

Images: JSK Architekci

fter a competition, in which 17 architectural teams entered designs for the new Polonia Warszawa complex, was held in May, the jury has officially decided to award the design contract to JSK Architekci - making it the third stadium that the firm have designed in the Polish capital, following PGE Narodowy and Stadion Wojska Polskiego.

In a bid to respect the spatial and historical constraints - the western façade and plaza are both listed as monuments - the complex offers symmetry: an indoor arena, 1,200 seats, and anciliary sporting facilities - including commercial gyms - are almost identical in volume, placed on each side of the plaza.

Both buildings are designed to mimic the stadium in terms of architecture, with slender columns providing rhythm to all three of them, despite slightly varying in terms of scale. The two smaller buildings are set to be 16-metres high, while the stadium itself is 19-metres, allowing the roof and columns to set a symbolic frame of the monument-listed western façade.

With the historical façade putting a limit on the amount of space dedicated to the main stand, some of the complex’s facilities in the plans have been moved to a building located behind the south stand. This will play host to Polonia Warszawa offices and training facilities, club museum and commercial spaces, as well as a conference centre that overlooks the pitch.

The new stadium will offer a shaded promenade for fans, with colonnade rather than opaque outer cladding used, connecting to the existing park in the east. Structural barriers are limited to the necessary minimum, too,

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making the complex accessible.

The stadium will have 22 rows for supporters, offering a total of 15,500 seats.

This layout will continue the traditional section for away fans in the north stand, while the more vocal home fans will take their place in the east stand.

The ground itself will be able to be used throughout the reconstruction as the pitch is being left untouched. The south, east and north stands will be delivered first.

Third and fourth phases of the project will see the indoor arena and anciliary sporting facilities delivered. At the same time, during the last three phases, a three-level underground car park will be created, offering 775 places.

The city of Warsaw has set aside 400m zloty (93m Euro) for the development, with JSK’s estimates putting its proposal at 399.9m zloty.

The stadium itself would only cover 108m zloty (25m Euro), the indoor hall 98m zloty (23m Euro) and the anciliary sporting facilities further 35m zloty (8m Euro). However, the total will be brought up due to significant expense on infrastructure and landscaping that is required.

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KICK OFF | SEATING A closer look at products and projects from the world of seating...

BRIDGESTONE ARENA HUSSEY SEATING Bridgestone Arena is the proud home to professional ice hockey team, the Nashville Predators. Situated in the heart of the city, the expansive event centre seats 17,000 fans, which translates into extensive fan traffic along with continual reconfigurations to accommodate a wide range of events beyond ice hockey - from concerts to basketball to monster truck shows and more.

Its existing telescopic seating equipment performed poorly, requiring a great deal of time and labour for each changeover from one event to the next.

Back-to-back events simply weren’t achievable. Beyond this, the operations team discovered some important geometric sightline issues through the years that had hindered the fan’s experience.

When they decided to upgrade, they contacted five different seating companies to request facility renovation concepts that would address three of their primary concerns, superior geometric sightlines, growing revenue, and elevating the overall patron experience. While some of those proposals may have accomplished their baseline goals, Hussey Seating came to the table with three different options that pushed the envelope above and beyond their original expectations. This included adding a seating area to the exclusive Lexus Lounge on the event level to rectify the venue’s most pressing challenge - sightlines. The lounge was particularly appealing given it would not only boost attendee satisfaction, but also the facility’s long-term revenue potential.

With extensive experience and success working on similar projects, Hussey Seating understood how to effectively schedule repair and renovations 016

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around the busy arena’s event schedule. More than that, though, Hussey was prepared to seamlessly accommodate new opportunities for revenuegenerating events during the installation. In fact, Bridgestone was able to add several new events during the renovation thanks to Hussey Seating’s ability to adjust on the fly and work around the ever-changing logistics.

The new telescopic platforms at Bridgestone Arena, in combination with the new Lexus Lounge, have provided fans with impeccable sightlines while dramatically reducing the time involved in event changeover. In addition, Hussey worked closely with the facility to accommodate Wi-Fi and DAS locations under the telescopic platforms to provide fans an even better event experience with high-speed cellular service and Wi-Fi. Ultimately, the collaborative relationship between the two organisations ensured the facility achieving its three main objectives and more.

Bridgestone Arena can now host more events, as well as different types of events. This additional event capacity adds up to huge revenue gains for many years to come. Staffing needs have also been reduced, with transformations now possible by simply retracting seating to open-up floor space in half the time. For the first time ever, Bridgestone Arena was easily able to host a basketball game during the day and a hockey game that same evening. www.husseyseating.com

KICK OFF

EMIRATES STADIUM | MONTGOMERY WATERS MEADOW FERCO SEATING Installing a new stadium seating system is a major operation involving careful thought and planning, with safety and a positive spectator experience paramount to any design and installation.

Crowd participation is an integral part of the spectator experience, creating the all-important positive stadium atmosphere. To achieve this, spectators must have a visual and audible connection with the game on the pitch.

Seating must provide spectators with an unobstructed view and should be comfortable with easy access to exits and additional facilities.

Ferco Seating offers a broad range of stadium seating with customisable options such as personalised embroidery or seat heaters, from VIP / executive style seating providing luxurious comfort, to general admission seats. With clients in over 60 countries, Ferco has designed, manufactured and installed sports seating all over the world into some of the most iconic venues, and are fully equipped to deliver any seating requirement, regardless of the location.

The range provides reduced whole life costs with time and maintenance costs considerably decreased - the superior quality of our products means they do not require fixing or refitting as frequently.

Stadium seating must be durable, the effects of prolonged use and weather erosion can take their toll, especially so for outdoor stadiums, which are exposed to the elements. Harsh sunlight, lasting rain, snow, wind and fatigue can all leave inferior quality seats prone to damage. Superior quality sports stadium seats, both plastic and upholstered are designed to withstand heavy use. There is a current rise in the redevelopment and refurbishment of sports venues, with additions like tunnel clubs and dining experiences, as clubs employ innovative design concepts and clever stratifications of their premium and general admission seat offerings to deliver significant returns.

Variety in premium seating is key, as no one size fits all. Stadia need to provide a mix of all-inclusive spaces, à la carte areas, standard suites and more intimate premium options, such as lounge-front terraces, table tops and small-group VIP spots.

Ferco has an ongoing relationship with Arsenal Football Club at the Emirates Stadium, installing the box seat to all general admission seating areas in the 60,260 capacity stadium.

Currently, Ferco are working with the club to upgrade its VIP areas and executive boxes, including the newly launched Avenell Club, which offers premium seasonal hospitality with panoramic views of the pitch. Ferco are installing the VIP Riviera seat with integral heaters at the end of the season.

For fans of an alternative spectator experience, Ferco are manufacturing pioneers in the Safe Standing movement, offering a full range of RailSeat products. Where standing is not allowed in all-seater stadia, these enable operators to address the issue of persistent standing, and, where it is allowed, to cater for standing fans in the safest possible way.

All of Ferco’s RailSeat products conform to Green Guide specifications for ‘seats incorporating barriers’, on the use of which - including, subject to strict conditions being met, in stadia in England and Wales governed by the all-seater policy - the Sports Ground Safety Authority now provides comprehensive guidance.

In 2018, Ferco worked with their local football club, Shrewsbury Town to install the RailSeat, the club has been branded pioneers in bringing safe standing to professional football and was the first club in England and Wales to install such a solution after Celtic installed the system in Scotland. www.fercoseating.com 017

KICK OFF

AVATAR INSITUAL Through its dedicated stadium seats brand, Insitual, Daplast proposes a wide range of backless and backrest shell seats, tip-up seats, VIP seats and bleachers suitable for all its customers’ needs and projects. After more than 40 years supplying and installing stadium seats across the five continents, the company is still committed to innovation.

“The seating in sport facilities is an increasingly demanding sector in design and functionalities,” said Rafael Perez-Esparza, General Manager at Daplast.

“Our R&D department constantly works on new products development and adjustments.”

The last launched model from the Spanish manufacturer is a modern aesthetic seat, ideal for the types of sports venue designed today. Furthermore, it is a flexible solution thanks to its mono rail fixing system for customised audience capacity, which also optimises the space between rows - improving security and comfort for the spectators. A complete range of dimensions and finishes are available within the same family called Avatar, under different versions: Basic, Compact, Premium and Suite. The Avatar, awarded by the Red Dot Design award, provides a complete and optimal solution that easily adapts to any project. Following market trends, the company is also about to release

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new models for seating in media areas, as well as audience-flexible solutions for multi-purpose sports stadium.

Daplast has installed more than three million seats worldwide, in some 2,000 sports venues, and is currently finalising the installation in a number of projects - 40,000 Avatar seats at Anoeta Stadium, the home of Real Sociedad; more than 10.000 Avatar seats in Malley Sports Center in Switzerland; and 20,000 Avatar seats for the redevelopment of the Celta Vigo’s Balaidos Stadium.

Regarding the future, Rafael clearly believes in the environmental responsibility of plastics industry companies: “There is so much technology and progress that can be implemented in such a sensitive sector.”

The company is finalising different partnerships so as to produce seats with other technologies and alternative materials, meeting all client’s needs, and furthermore is involved with promising positive energy options. www.insitual.com

F1_stadia_ad_Aug2018.pdf

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KICK OFF

PAN AMERICAN GAMES AVANT SPORTS INDUSTRIAL CO. The existing sports park in San Luis district of Lima is being redeveloped to meet the sports infrastructure requirements to host the Pan American and Para Pan American Games in 2019. British architectural firm, Pattern Design designed the new velodrome, aquatics centre, athletics stadium, bowling centre, and multisports arena, as well as the overall masterplan of the site. Utilising Pattern’s experience in extremely fast-track design and build projects, the entire project is currently under construction for delivery by July 2019. Both the epic proportions of Lima’s iconic huaca pyramids, and the textile motifs of Peru are evoked in the façade designs across all individual venues, to create a cohesive design across the park.

Avant Sports Industrial Co. are the official seating supplier for the 2019 games. A total of 10,125 stadium seats have been installed from the Diamond II range, the COOLIN II series and the KOOK telescopic tribune range of grandstand seating.

Events will be held in various Lima districts and neighbouring cities, with most of them concentrated in the clusters of VIDENA (a complex in the San Luis District), Pan American Park (Villa María del Triunfo), the Sports Village of Callao, and a sports complex in Costa Verde.

The 2019 Pan American Games run from 26 July to 11 August, with preliminary rounds in certain events beginning on 24 July. www.avantseating.com

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he only you need

MOLINEUX STADIUM SEATS INCORPORATING BARRIERS Wolves are set to become the first Premier League club to install seats incorporating barriers in an existing stadium.

The club has announced that all seats in the Sir Jack Hayward Stand will be replaced this summer by a new barrier seating solution. Furthermore all seats in the Stan Cullis quadrant will be fitted with an independent barrier, both options will fully comply with the Sports Ground Safety Authority’s most recent guidance.

Current Government policy prevents any form of standing area in the top two tiers of English football, however, the latest edition of the SGSA’s Green Guide contains guidelines on the use of ‘seats incorporating barriers’ and ‘seats with independent barriers’.

It has been confirmed by the SGSA that, provided certain strict conditions are met, both independent barriers and seats incorporating barriers can be licensed as compliant with the Government’s all-seater policy.

With a number of seats in the South Bank identified as coming to the end of their life cycle, and with a desire to mitigate the safety risks of persistent standing, the club has taken the opportunity to install barrier seating this summer, in time for the beginning of the 2019/20 season.

Managing Director Laurie Dalrymple said: “After consultation with South Bank season ticket holders and discussions at Fan’s Parliament, we are delighted to be in a position to confirm that barrier seating will be installed at Molineux this summer.

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“In April, we sent all supporters who have a season ticket in the South Bank a survey asking them a number of questions about their match day habits, including whether or not they would be in favour of barrier seating in the stand. An overwhelming majority of 97% told us they would be in favour of the change.

“For some time, we have been working very closely with the Sports Ground Safety Authority and our Safety Advisory Group to evaluate our options, and the results of this survey meant we were happy to move forwards with the work this summer, with no negative implications to the capacity of either stand.

“It is important to stress that these will not be safe-standing areas, and we will continue to have a management plan in place to ensure compliance with the Governments all-seater policy. The Sports Ground Safety Authority will be closely monitoring Molineux and particularly any new seating arrangements to ensure our continued compliance with the licence conditions.

“Of course, Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium was built with a similar solution already installed, but Wolves will become the first club to install rail seating in an existing stadium, and I think that is something we should be very proud of.” www.wolves.co.uk

KICK OFF

SAN MAMES STADIUM RAIL SEAT SYSTEM Athletic Bilbao Club has introduced the ‘Rail Seat’ system at its famous San Mamés stadium in Bilbao, Spain to improve the fan experience and increase safety.

Fans who would have stood anyway now have more space and aren’t blocking the view of those behind.

Athletic Club’s San Mamés is one of the newest stadiums in LaLiga but retains an intimidating atmosphere that reflects the club’s 120 years of history. This atmosphere is a key part of the fan experience and will be further enhanced by the introduction of the safe standing area, the first in the Spanish top flight.

The Bilbao club elected to install the pioneering ‘Rail Seat’ system, which has emerged as a popular new initiative for safe standing in football. Polls have shown that many fans prefer to stand during matches anyway, even in areas where there are seats in the way, so this idea served multiple needs at once.

In recent years the ‘Rail Seat’ mechanism has made the concept of safe standing at a football match possible. It consists of a line of metallic seats that can be pushed back to form a standing rail and to clear a continuous, strong, safe and obstacle-free lane along the row.

This system also solves the issue of stadiums having to be all-seater for matches in European competition, as club staff can quickly and efficiently unlock the seats with a special key to turn the safe standing areas into allseated ones.

The result is a space for the club’s most passionate fans to stand and to support the team in an animated fashion, while those who prefer to sit during the 90 minutes can do so in the other areas of the stadium and can do so without having to worry about their line of sight being blocked.

Borja González Bilbao, Athletic Club’s Director of Stadium Operations said: “This development will allow our liveliest supporters to remain standing, singing and jumping throughout the game, without risking their safety or

that of those around them.

“San Mamés is a stadium with impressive qualities in terms of safety and accessibility and, in cases where the fans remain standing, it allows us to avoid surges when, for example, celebrating a goal.”

This pioneering initiative is giving Athletic Club supporters a unique experience, one that is becoming more common around Europe but that is still a novelty for most football fans.

As well as increasing safety, the objective of such sections is to add to the fan experience and to boost the matchday spectacle. They improve social integration and significantly boost the atmosphere and the likelihood of fans to sing and chant.

This is just the latest advancement being made by Athletic Club and San Mamés, which was already one of Europe’s most impressive new stadiums.

As well as being given ‘elite stadium’ status by FIFA and becoming a Euro 2020 host, it has been recognised around the world with a plethora of architectural awards and was named as the best sports building in the world at the 2015 World Architectural Festival.

Opened in 2013 adjacent to the old stadium of the same name, San Mamés is a celebrated example of modern stadium design and this is immediately obvious for fans approaching the venue as they see the 30,000-pixel screen and the 2,500 sail-shaped pieces of 12 LED lights each that decorate the exterior.

Inside, the vertical stands close to the pitch and the roof that is angled down towards the action combine to make the stadium as noisy and as intimidating as possible for visiting teams. The introduction of a safe standing section can whip up the excitement and passion of this cauldron further and make Athletic Club’s home even more of a fortress. www.athletic-club.eus

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“We have a dedicated sports team in the UK, which has been responsible for the master planning and design of high-profile projects including major venues at Rio 2016, World Cup 2022 and, more recently, Japoma Sport Complex in Cameroon.”

“We work with clients to map the journeys of different users, then consult with the clubs to perfect the layout and create an infrastructure that creates and enhances an amazing atmosphere. This is what they’re paying for, after all.”

Jim Smith Associate Director AECOM

Chris Mansell Director & General Manager GL events UK

JIM SMITH Associate Director, AECOM

INTERVIEW

Firstly, tell us a little bit more about your background in the industry…

I’ve worked in acoustic consultancy since graduating with a degree in Electro Acoustics from Salford University in 1994, and gained my Chartered Engineering qualification in 2010. I’ve been with AECOM since 2012 and, prior to that, worked for a few other large multidisciplinary consultancies since graduation.

Throughout my career, I’ve been involved in many projects covering a diverse range of acoustic design, analysis and testing, including noise and vibration, building acoustics, environmental acoustics, planning and licensing and industrial and occupational noise.

Over the past 15 years, my work has tended to focus on electro-acoustics and Public Address Voice Alarm (PAVA) design. I’ve been involved in many exciting and high-profile projects, including cultural and leisure facilities, airports, rail stations (over-ground and underground) and arenas and stadi, both in the UK and internationally.

I have assisted or been responsible for the acoustic and electro-acoustic designs for some of the world’s most iconic arenas and stadia, including for example, football and cricket World Cup stadia, as well as Olympic stadia and arenas - Torino 2006 Winter Olympics, Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics, London 2012 Summer Olympics, Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games Ashgabat 2017 and Rio 2016 Summer Olympics.

I’m a member of Council for the Institute of Sound and Communications Engineers (ISCE), which is a professional body of members and supporting

“We use our expertise to tune the acoustics of the bowl or event space to create an electric atmosphere, but one in which the sound system is also designed to deliver intelligible speech by installing sound absorbing and sound reflecting materials in strategic locations to strike the appropriate balance.”

Jim Smith

members working in the audio, sound and communications industries.

I sit on a number of committees including the ISCE’s Talker training Committee, which I chair. The latter is a committee, which is looking to develop a code of practice, complete with training and certification, for

required, and it’s great to be part of such a dedicated team striving to

people who use microphones particularly in large complex installations.

deliver a quality solution in a record-breaking timescale.

What is your role at AECOM and what does that consist of on a day-to-

How does a stadium / sporting venue project start for AECOM usually?

day basis?

European-based projects tend to be brought to our attention through OJEU

I’m an Associate Director and AECOM’s Electro-Acoustics Global Lead,

notices, but, being a large global organisation, we have a local presence

directly responsible for a team of electro-acousticians in the UK. I

throughout the world and our multidisciplinary offering, which forms our

also provide support and share knowledge with AECOM acoustics and

specialist sports team that is also well known and respected globally.

multidisciplinary teams around the world. I work closely with our

AECOM prides itself on providing innovative, yet cost-effective acoustic

Canadian, US, Hong Kong and Singapore colleagues to support their bids

solutions, with both the spectator and athlete - or performer - in mind

and projects - and also to provide a consistent and quality approach to

and our successful delivery on past projects has increased our visibility

electro-acoustic design, through direct input to projects or project reviews.

attracting new and repeat clients. A project will typically commence with

From a technical perspective, my day-to-day responsibilities include the

a project start up meeting at which all disciplines are represented - this

detailed design of Public Address Voice Alarm systems primarily for large

gives each discipline a platform from which to set out their requirements

complex buildings such as arenas and stadia, railway stations and airports.

at the earliest opportunity. This aids us in providing a holistic design, as

I often work as part of a team of advanced technology specialists, which

well as establishing a roadmap for coordinated design progression and

include communications, IT, security, access control and audiovisual

exploring innovative cost-efficient solutions, as early as possible.

experts. In addition to this, I produce bid submissions and promotional material for AECOM’s Sports Acoustics team, which I lead.

What are the main things you have to take into consideration when working on a stadium / sporting venue?

Can you explain what AECOM specialise in when it comes to stadiums

The right acoustic atmosphere drives athletes to deliver their best

and sporting venues?

performance and can have a significant bearing on the reputation and

As a multidisciplinary consultancy, we have experts in all the major

success of the stadium. This relies on a live acoustic, which usually

disciplines such as architecture, structural, mechanical and electrical,

requires a large reverberant space. Perhaps more importantly, though, if

IT, security, access control, hostile vehicle mitigation. Pretty much any

the space is too live - too reverberant - this could undermine the speech

field you can think of, including specialisms such as, acoustics and fire

intelligibility performance of the PAVA, which is required to provide

engineering, and perhaps many other specialisms you probably wouldn’t

informative spoken instruction during an evacuation.

think of. Although, it’s not surprising given that we have almost 100,000

To promote good speech intelligibility, the acoustic needs to be relatively

staff worldwide.

‘dead’- in other words, free from late sound. Whether the late sound is

We have a dedicated sports team in the UK, which has been responsible for

produced from sound reflections from the roof or opposing stands, for

the master planning and design of high-profile projects including major

example, or late direct sound arriving from loudspeakers in other stands.

venues at Rio 2016 Summer Olympics, Qatar 2022 World Cup and, more

You might see designers referring to optimising direct-to-reverberant

recently, Japoma Sport Complex in Cameroon. The latter has received quite

ratio where the direct sound is just that, the sound, which travels directly

a lot of praise recently as its design and on-going construction has been

from the loudspeaker to the listener without be reflected off any surfaces.

recognised as being much quicker than would typically be expected for a

In essence, they’re correct, but strictly speaking they should be referring to

stadium complex of this scale. Its formal opening is expected this summer,

early to late sound since early reflections and direct sound, which arrives

so we’re all very excited to see the end result.

within 35ms of the first direct sound will reinforce the initial direct sound.

I’m also very pleased to say that AECOM acoustics team members,

From an acoustics perspective, one of the key issues is balancing the

including - and led by - myself, assisted in the comprehensive scheme

need for good sound reproduction from the audio system with the need

design and the subsequent design guardianship responsibilities. We’re

to provide an exciting atmosphere. These are fundamentally at odds with

still providing acoustics and sound systems design support as and when

one another and so a considered and coordinated approach to acoustics

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INTERVIEW

and sound system design is essential to delivering the best spectator experience, that provides long lasting memories.

The bowl or event space is the heart of the venue and needs to keep a steady beat, if the space is too live this can have a detrimental effect on music clarity, which could have major implications for a venue’s reputation and its ability to cater for a diverse range of uses such as rock concerts.

So, you can see that creating a flexible, yet quality acoustic design is fundamental to the success of any arena or stadium. AECOM prides itself on delivering innovative, yet cost effective acoustic solutions, with both the spectator and athlete in mind.

We use our expertise to tune the acoustics of the bowl or event space to create an electric atmosphere, but one in which the sound system is also designed to deliver intelligible speech by installing sound absorbing and sound reflecting materials in strategic locations to strike the appropriate balance. This is imperative where the sound system is used for emergency purposes and there are instances where large public buildings have been refused operating licenses where they have failed to meet the performance requirements.

Coordinating with other disciplines to provide sufficient and safe access to equipment can be a challenge, particularly with regard to loudspeakers within the bowl / event space, allowing for sufficient power load requirements and equipment rooms early in the design process. Key to electro-acoustic performance is getting buy in for acoustic treatment to assist the sound system in meeting the speech intelligibility requirements.

Providing adequate and appropriate Assistive Listening Systems is also a fundamental consideration and conveying the importance of this to the client.

Are there any difficulties that you experience on a regular basis?

There is an understandable desire to provide visually striking, iconic venues with a high seating capacity, though this tends to result in large volume spaces with very high roofs, often using acoustically reflective materials. This can result in a very live space, which as we established earlier is great for spectator excitement, but isn’t so great for meeting life safety, sound system intelligibility targets.

That said it depends on the geometry of the internal building envelope and the extent and distribution of sound absorbing and reflecting finishes and some large venues don’t feel particular live and as such tend to lack atmosphere. As well as using industry standard, proprietary acoustic modelling packages, we continually develop our own tools using software packages and plug-ins such as Grasshopper, for example, to undertake rapid higher, level analysis before applying the results for more refined analysis in our acoustic modelling software.

The greater the distance of the roof from the seating the more power is required to generate the sound levels required, which translates into larger heavier arrays; not only does this have implications for structural design and access for installation many architects don’t like to see loudspeakers on show. Unfortunately, the laws of physics mean loudspeakers don’t tend to work as well if hidden away.

Then, of course, there is the consideration of EN 54 and the availability of suitably powerful and music capable loudspeakers, amplifier and audio processors. However, we are seeing more and more certified products coming to market from pro-audio manufacturers giving us a wider palette to choose from which is great when it comes to developing tender specifications.

What stadium / sporting venues have you worked on recently?

I have been lucky to have worked on high profile projects recently including the design of Rio 2016 venues, Qatar 2022 Al Wakrah Stadium and supporting venues, Japoma Sports Complex, Perth Stadium

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INTERVIEW

(competition bid), and a couple of confidential stadia in the Middle and Far

them. There is something special or magical about arenas and stadia,

East.

we generally associate these venues with exciting times and, for me

I have also been involved in the review of PAVA system installs at a number

personally, imagining the ‘buzz’ from walking into a finished venue or

of venues in the UK and overseas. As AECOM’s electro-acoustic lead, I work

out into an arena bowl feels as tangible from the bid process or start-up

in other areas and I’m also currently working on the detailed design and/

meeting as it does from the site visits, commissioning tests and test events.

or review of PAVA systems in some large railway stations and international

To experience first-hand the atmosphere in a world class iconic venue is

airports.

thrilling in itself, but to have had a hand in the making of such a venue makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

Do you have any stadium / sporting venue projects coming up in the near

If I had to choose one, it would be my first stadium project at Manchester

future?

City’s Etihad Stadium.

We have a number of exciting opportunities, both national and overseas,

I spent many a happy day - and night - on site during the commissioning

which we are currently negotiating, but obviously I can’t say anymore on

and acceptance phases, including organising subjective and objective

these. They look like really exciting and fun projects though. As I already

tests for the Public Address Voice Alarm system in advance of the

mentioned, we’re still providing design guardianship on Japoma and it’s

Commonwealth Games and then again prior to Manchester City moving in

great to see the build nearing completion.

following the stadium’s transformation.

I also have very fond memories of the Torino 2006 Winter Olympic Ice

What would you say has been your favourite stadium / sporting arena

Hockey Arena for which I was acoustic project manager/designer - it’s a

project so far?

striking building both externally and internally.

That’s a very difficult question; without fail, I have enjoyed all of

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INTERVIEW

What would you say is the next big thing in terms of stadium / sporting venue technology?

That’s another difficult one. I’m trying to keep a close eye on the use of Virtual and Augmented Reality applications in stadia, arenas and other performance venues. Spectator expectations are becoming higher and higher, the more accustomed they are becoming to immersive technologies in their domestic and occupational lives as well as higher quality audio reproduction, connectivity and interactivity through social media. It would be interesting to see what comes next from an assistive listening / inclusive experience perspective.

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INTERVIEW

CHRIS MANSELL Director and General Manager, GL events UK When it comes to sporting infrastructure, GL events UK has been at the

he’s now head of a team that has - on the events side - delivered two

forefront of what it calls ‘premiumisation’ for some time. This trend,

Commonwealth Games, seven Open Golf Championships, and a total four

which can be noted across sports businesses and events both on and off

Olympic Games, including the installation of seating grandstands across

the pitch, is driven by consumer behaviour and the experience economy:

17 venues at the London 2012 Olympics.

the growth in consumers choosing experience, rather than material

GL events UK has grown the stadium construction arm of its business,

goods.

redeveloping and installing grandstands at four UK football stadiums -

Live sport fixtures and events are now experienced as much more than

Watford, Plymouth Argyle, Exeter City and Barnet football clubs, as well as

a day out. Taking part as a spectator offers the opportunity to create and

temporary grandstands at stadia including Emirates Old Trafford Cricket

share memorable experiences, for families, friends, guests and clients.

Ground. This portfolio comes with a whole lot of experience, meaning

Spectators are willing to pay more for an engaged experience; there is

Chris is a wealth of information on what makes a great stadium, and a

a sound business case for creating premium engagement. However,

great spectator experience.

while the sporting product is by far the most important element of this

“Flexibility and agility are important, not least for newly promoted

improved engagement, stadia can offer increased theatre and spectacle

football clubs that need to quickly and cost-effectively increase capacity,”

– music, pyrotechnics and light shows, merchandise and freebies; or

commented Chris. “High-end, quality temporary grandstand options are

through what is called the spectator journey.

also important for hosting events and concerts, whenever stadia need

This is where infrastructure comes in, and where GL events UK has made

to create additional space or reconfigure their grounds to compete as an

it their business to offer an almost scientific understanding, grounded in

event venue.

research, experience, and consideration of the spectator experience, from

“This is where our stadium seating comes into strategic play for

their arrival at the stadium to the moment they leave.

Lancashire County Cricket Club, a long-standing client of ours. GL events’

For GL events UK, specialists in temporary infrastructure for major events

solution, a temporary, 8,600-seater grandstand complete with toilet

as well as permanent and semi-permanent stadium construction, this

facilities, allows the Club to expand or decrease capacity dependent on

means consideration of every element, from inclusivity and access, the

operations at the ground, which hosts concerts and events as well as

view from every angle, merchandising opportunities, the location of F&B,

international and county cricket fans.”

facilities, cash machines.

So, what else does a stand or stadium design need to consider? “It’s not

Chris Mansell, Director and General Manager of GL events UK’s Seating

just about spectators, it’s also about the players, officials, and staff. How

and Stadia Division, has 23 years of experience in the industry under

can they safely enter and exit the stadium? Does the design incorporate

his belt. His first brief took him to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and

changing, medical and training facilities? Are meeting rooms, conference

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INTERVIEW

spaces and media facilities required? We work with clients to map the journeys of different users, then consult with the clubs to perfect the layout and create an infrastructure that creates and enhances an amazing atmosphere. This is what they’re paying for, after all.”

But when it comes down to getting bums on seats, premiumisation is about balancing comfort with value. In the age of experience, a new breed of spectator would rather have the most comfortable seat, instead of comfort being denied because of cost.

Chris added: “It’s about comfortable seats, with more space, greater width and depth, more leg room and improved sight lines. This is the very basic expectation. We’ve also developed temporary stands with closed riser and decking systems, so phones and wallets don’t slip through into the structure, and Wi-Fi enabled grandstands so spectators can supplement the live experience with social media interaction. This is really helpful for sports like golf, where it’s impossible for spectators to be present for every shot, and also provides operations teams with a wealth of feedback during a fixture or event.”

It’s no wonder Chris and his team, whose long-standing relationships

“Spectators expect a premium experience and don’t want their day spoiled by stands that rattle every time someone shifts in their seat. Our product fixes this problem at live sporting events and our clients have loved having them.”

Chris Mansell

include partnerships with the R&A and The Ryder Cup, have such a trusted reputation in the world of golf. Much of this is built on product innovation, and another reason why GL events UK continues to invest in audience research. “Our clients are always asking us to create ‘firsts’ and bring something new to their events,” continued Chris. “This is why

“It has to be consultative, to deliver a project that’s as individual as the

we developed our noise-reducing stands. Spectators expect a premium

stadium businesses and clubs themselves. Our clients give us great briefs,

experience and don’t want their day spoiled by stands that rattle every

they share their aspirations and challenges, and trust us to help them to

time someone shifts in their seat. Our product fixes this problem at live

seize opportunities and solve problems. We’re expected to bring new ideas

sporting events and our clients have loved having them.”

to the table. This can only happen through collaboration, and we’re very

On top of this, as premiumisation continues to gather pace, exceptionally

lucky to have had some very good clients. The product reflects this team

high standards are emerging away from pitch-side. As well as stadium

effort.”

seating, we’re also really interested in quality hospitality and corporate experiences,” continued Chris. “This is where we can work seamlessly across the GL events UK business to add value for stadia. We’re now creating premium hospitality spaces that offer five-star dining, luxurious champagne bars and lounge areas, and bespoke sponsor brand activations.

These spaces are stunning and live up to expectations of an amazing experience both on and off the pitch.”

Understandably, a lot of technical expertise goes into designing and constructing a stand or stadium, however, Chris still insists it’s very much a people process.

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06 THE FULL PITCH

040 Tottenham Hotspur Stadium | London, England

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR STADIUM London, England Images: Populous, HARMAN, SSE Audio, Musco Lighting, Daktronics, SCX, SGL

THE FULL PITCH

F

or 118 years, White Hart Lane was the home

to the area will be immense, and demonstrates our

of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, as well

commitment to the regeneration of this priority borough

as being one of the most famous stadiums in

in London.”

football.

Not only that, a five-year partnership with Saracens Rugby

White Hart Lane played host to some of the club’s most

Club has also been announced, which will see the club play

famous moments, from its first European Cup appearance

their annual ‘Big Game’ Gallagher Premiership Rugby

in 1961 against Polish side, Górnik Zabrze, winning the

fixture at the new stadium from 2020.

1984 UEFA Cup Final against Anderlecht, through to

There will be concerts scheduled, too, highlighting why

defeating holders Inter Milan in its first Champions League

Tottenham Hotspur had to embrace innovative technology

campaign in 2010.

to ensure the delivery of a truly flexible stadium.

Tottenham Hotspur made the decision to demolish its

Tottenham Hotspur played its first Premier League game

old ground in a bid to further move the club forward

at its new stadium on 3 April against Crystal Palace, with

and, ultimately, take stadium design to the next level.

Mauricio Pochettino’s men recording a 2-0 win.

Demolition work began in May 2017 to make room for a

The game was a pivotal moment in sporting venue design

new, state-of-the-art, multi-use, 62,062-seater stadium.

after some truly ground-breaking work in all areas.

The bold, ambitious redevelopment has nearly doubled

042

the club’s previous stadium capacity, as well as turned its

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

home ground into one of the most flexible major venues in

The stadium began with a design from global architectural

the world.

design firm, Populous, which was enlisted with the task

Such is the potential of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a 10-

of creating a new venue that would herald a new era for

year agreement with the NFL is in place, with a minimum

Tottenham Hotspur.

of two NFL games to be played at the venue each year.

Populous’ Managing Director, Christopher Lee, takes up

“We have an opportunity now to deliver one of the most

the story: “It started back in 2012 - I met Daniel Levy

unique sports, leisure and entertainment venues in the

around then. I’d been in New York, running the office there

world, bringing together the Premier League and NFL for

for around seven or eight years and knew a lot of the guys

the first time,” said Daniel Levy, Chairman of Tottenham

who had worked on similar projects. So, I was introduced

Hotspur. “The socio-economic benefits this will bring

to Daniel and we got on pretty well - he is one to always be

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THE FULL PITCH

to Daniel and we got on pretty well - he is always one on

The design offers fans freedom of movement within

the look out for ways in which to improve something. The

the stadium, as well as an incredible amount of choice.

club had been working on the project for a long time and

The stereotypical match-day experience - through the

had finally got planning permission, which was a difficult

turnstile, onto the concourse for food and drink, watch the

one to get.

game from the seat and leave – has been left in the past at

“We were commissioned initially to see how we could

the new venue.

improve the scheme and that, essentially, evolved into

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has set a new benchmark for

a new design and a full commission. Over a number of

premium and concourse offerings, with Jump Studios, a

months talking about stadiums – what was happening out

Populous company, having designed a variety of multi-

in the United States, in particular – we agreed that there

experience interior spaces within the stadium, taking

were better solutions out there. What the club wanted

inspiration from the club’s rich heritage and long history

was a truly great stadium, rather than a good stadium. So,

in Tottenham.

there was a very basic brief of delivering the best stadium

Elements of the club’s strong, local identity can be found

in the UK, but that evolved to something with much bigger

within the food and drink experience. A range of general

aspirations.”

admission spaces – including The Market Place, which

Perhaps the most important consideration taken when it

hosts an array of food and drink outlets, the longest bar

came to the design from Populous was the experience of

in Europe, and three high-street pub-style feature bars

the fans visiting the stadium – the idea was to maintain

– are located around the ground and are accessible to all

the traditions and authenticity of English football, all

supporters, regardless of where they are sitting in the

within a modern, state-of-the-art venue that catered to

stadium.

every need.

Local brewer, Beavertown, add their own inimitable

Christopher explained further: “We had a meeting of

presence within The Market Place with a microbrewery and

minds on how stadiums should be and how we should

the Beavertown Tottenham Taproom – a world first within

treat the football fans. We wanted to produce a genuinely

a football stadium. Also, three feature bars - The Shelf, The

fantastic football stadium that picked up on traditions

White Hart and The Dispensary - celebrate the history of

of great English football stadiums, as well as the best of

the stadium and local area, too.

European and US venues, too.”

“We wanted to create a place all of the fans wanted to come

043

044

to early and stay late,” added Christopher. “We wanted

atmospheric, intense seating bowl, the rest of the stadium

to create fantastic environments as food and beverage is

is somewhat easier to complete,” explained Christopher.

hugely important. It had to be really good quality food and

“As a practice, we do a lot of theatres and music arenas,

beer that was priced reasonably – there’s dynamic pricing,

so we brought a lot of that team over - acousticians, for

so for the first hour of the stadium opening, you get a pie

example, who are U2’s sound engineers - to design the

and a pint for a fiver, for example.

seating bowl in the same way we would a large concert

“If you’re down at The Market in the south stand, you will

hall. It’s all about great acoustics, amplified noise and real

find a great space that has around seven to eight thousand

clarity.

people there, all singing and creating an atmosphere. We

“So, once the south stand starts singing, the north stand

built the longest bar in Europe, which is 60-metres long,

responds and the chants don’t break down. There’s more

with the bottom up pouring, so pints are poured in three

to atmosphere - it’s a mix of art and science. It’s about

seconds. The bars up in other areas are of the same quality,

sightlines and proximity - the south stand is just under

making fans want to be there before and after the game.”

five-metres behind the goal line, which is phenomenally

With such an incredible experience on the way into the

close. We wanted to get fans as close as we could with great

stadium, the atmosphere inside the bowl had to match,

views.

which is why Populous specifically designed the venue to

“Also, feeling part of a big crowd is important, so we lifted

generate one of the best match-day atmospheres in the

the roof up and had the stands slightly curved, so you

world, with uninterrupted sightlines and spectators closer

always have a peripheral view out of the side, making you

to the pitch than at any comparable UK ground.

feel more connected to a much bigger crowd.”

The stands are angled at 35º - the steepest angle that UK

The areas at the front of the south stand, as well as the

guidelines recommend – which create a tight, atmospheric

away supporters section, have been future-proofed for safe

stadium, with the focus going to towards the south stand,

standing, with a first-of-its-kind design that gives equal

in which 17,500 home fans sat together to generate a

precedence to safety and comfort. The rows of seating are

wall of sound. Influenced by some of the great European

separated by an ergonomically profiled bar, which is set

stadiums, it’s the largest single-tier stand in the UK.

at 900mm for clear sightlines. Each of the seats, which

To amplify the noise in the stadium – adding to the

provide the same levels of comfort and leg room as in all

atmosphere and fan experience – there is a concert

other areas of the stadium, are fitted with a lock to ensure

hall-inspired acoustic setup. Plus, wireless connectivity

it can be securely fixed in the upright position.

is available across the venue, enabling fans inside the

Christopher added: “It’s all about future proofing rather

stadium to connect with and share their live event

than increasing capacity. Most importantly, we wanted

experiences with other fans across the globe.

to produce an environment that is safe. It’s all there and

“The bowl is really important - if you can create an

ready, so should the legislation change in the future,

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Stadium's Jewel

Protouch specializes in Turn-Key projects, formation of the concept, developing multimedia products and designing customized integration systems, innovative AV systems, installation and management. https://www.protouch.tech Mobile: +972-54-8351566 marketing@protouch.co.il

Kinetic Sculpture

Waking the walls of Jerusalem

THE FULL PITCH the stadium can be one of the first to implement safe standing.”

As you approach Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the main thing that hits you is just how visually striking the venue is, with its sculpted appearance and glass façade, which arches up to reveal the huge, single-tier south stand. The curved roof combines with the structure of the stadium to create a graceful, elegant clean cover over the seating bowl. The façade is dynamic, responsive to the changing light - by day, the façade’s perforated screens partially shroud what’s going on inside, but, at night, they act like a lantern, highlighting the activity within.

A five-storey high glass atrium at the south end provides a new meeting place for home supporters before and after the match, including an open food court bathed in natural light. This spectacular entrance provides a glimpse of life within the stadium and has been designed to create a sense of arrival from the station.

Populous’ design perfectly responds to Tottenham Hotspur’s brief to create memorable experiences for its fans and everyone else who visits the multi-purpose stadium.

“There were lots of technical challenges in fitting that much quality accommodation into the space. The whole thing was a complex design that was incredibly interwoven,” Christopher said about the project. “The build was complex, too - we had to build around White Hart Lane, of course. We had to make sure the stadium operated before an incredibly quick race towards the finish line. It was by far the most complex stadium we have ever designed.”

AUDIO The club needed to deliver an exceptional audio experience

046

to complement the state-of-the-art facilities within the

whole thing - it was very fluid in the early days, so we were

stadium, so to achieve this HARMAN was announced as the

doing a lot of modelling in the concourses, tunnels and so

official audio supplier.

on.

A tender process took place that considered exactly what

“We just wanted to make sure everyone was happy with

the club wanted from its audio system, SSE Audio provided

the design and that it met the sound pressure levels as per

the acoustic design that was approved to the technical

the design specifications.”

requirements set by the consultants, Vanguardia.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is the first in Europe to have

Ryan Penny, HARMAN’s Senior Business Development

installed the new JBL VLA Compact loudspeaker solution.

Manager, Large Venues, EMEA, explained further:

“It’s a compact yet powerful loudspeaker that was

“Throughout the new stadium, the club sought to provide

developed following the success of the large VLA Series. It

a best-in-class fan experience, while maintaining

brings tour quality sound components from the JBL VTX

speech intelligibility, which is paramount to safety. The

line to an installation-specific loudspeaker enclosure,

specification called for the audio system to be highly

making it perfectly suited to European-style stadia,” said

flexible with the audio for each space within the stadium

Ryan.

being considered. Further to this, the entire system is built

The system comprises 18 arrays of varying lengths to

on an IP backbone using Dante Audio over IP to allow for a

accommodate the geometry of the stands and roofline.

more intelligent and connected audio system.

Each array has a complement of three JBL VLA-

“SSE Audio designed the audio system in accordance with

C125S subwoofers mounted to the rear in a cardioid

the consultant’s specification, with support from HARMAN

configuration, which is an aspect that SSE Audio tested

UK distributor Sound Technology. The fast-paced and

extensively to find the optimum positioning.

ambitious nature of the project required that all parties

Aesthetically, the loudspeaker arrays, each positioned

were dynamic and flexible in their approach.”

below the inner node of the tension system, are incredibly

Eddie Thomas, Vice President, Integrated Solutions at SSE

sympathetic to the architecture - in keeping with the

Audio, who designed and integrated the audio system,

seamless use of technology throughout the stadium.

takes up the story: “We did some modelling and design

“In addition to the bowl loudspeaker system, HARMAN

work using the new loudspeakers with HARMAN - and

provided over 4,000 loudspeakers, which deliver an audio

then put forward a proposal based upon an all-HARMAN

experience unique to each space, from the concourses

solution for the bowl, the amplification and all the back-

and premium hospitality spaces through to the club’s

of-house loudspeakers.

press conference room, which doubles as an auditorium /

“A lot of the focus was on the back-of-house areas as they

screening space with full surround sound,” added Ryan.

were going through their own internal design process, so

All of the loudspeakers are driven by Crown DCI Series

we had to redesign loudspeaker setups in the concourse,

multi-channel Dante amplifiers. The DCI range provides

conference and hospitality areas, for example. It was very

excellent sonic performance and rock-solid reliability for

much a build, design and develop type of approach to the

installation, with a suite of features to allow real-time

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

THE FULL PITCH monitoring and priority routing for over 35 individual channels.

Also, a Soundcraft Vi1000 digital mixing console, which brings together the worlds of install and production audio through its flexible I/O, yet in a necessarily compact footprint, is used at the stadium.

“The audio system system is quite flexible in that you can route audio to any loudspeaker in the stadium,” said Eddie. “The system, of course, plays the audio of the video screens around the venue, as well as acting as public address and voice evacuation system - there are a lot emergency functions integrated into the fire alarm system.

“For fan engagement, it’s about the way a system is used - there is a full production gallery and the audio system takes feeds from that, creating an experience for the fans with audio and video working together in the bowl and other areas of the stadium. The audio system isn’t directly responsible for the fan engagement aspect, as it were, but it certainly facilitates it.”

As with most projects of this size and calibre, there were some challenges along the way when it came to installing the audio system at the stadium, which Eddie explained: “The original idea was to install the loudspeaker arrays on the steel wires that hold the roof up, while still on the ground before it got lifted up and put into tension.

However, it turns out that wasn’t possible, so we had to wait until the roof had been put into tensile strength before we could actually mount anything to it. That’s when we had our frames installed - we had our trailer with the lynches on it and pulled the loudspeakers up into position in each of the locations.

“There was quite a bit of design and development that went into that - we had to rethink the cabling for the loudspeakers, for example, as we were now doing that in the air rather than on the ground.”

13HD pixel layouts, delivering excellent image clarity and

With the new audio system up and running, fans have been

contrast to fans in every seat.

left impressed with the way the stadium sounds.

Each main video display also features variable content

Eddie said: “The feedback has been really good. The bowl,

zoning, allowing each to show one large image or to be

in particular, has been exceptional - there’s no problems

divided into multiple windows to show any combination

at all in terms of sound pressure level or intelligibility.”

of live video, instant replays, statistics and match data,

Ryan concluded: “The experience at the new ground is

graphics and animations, and sponsorship messages.

one where the whole is bigger than the sum of its parts,

The three tiers of LED ribbon displays - the first time

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is one of the first stadia that

three sets of ribbon displays have been featured inside a

truly delivers on all aspects - and technology plays a large

UK stadium, deliver fan engagement through the event-

part of that.

day experience. The upper and middle tier ribbons will

“The project was both fast paced and large scale, but,

run from the east to west stands through the north stand.

despite the challenges that go along with this, HARMAN,

The upper screen measures 387-metres long, while the

SSE Audio and Sound Technology were well placed

lower one measures 348-metres long. The suite tier ribbon

through experience in the market to deliver on the club’s

is split into two runs along the east and west stands,

requirements.”

measuring 122-metres long on the east and 105-metres long on the west.

048

VIDEO & DIGITAL SIGNAGE

As well as the original project, Daktronics added more

Video displays have become an all-important part of

LED displays in and around the new stadium, offering a

sporting venues, with the technology going from strength

complete street-to-seat visitor experience.

to strength, offering a truly exceptional visual experience

The east and west atriums, Tottenham Experience, Paxton

for fans. Recognising this importance, Tottenham Hotspur

House, Auditorium and external wayfinding locations all

enlisted the help of Daktronics, which provided LED video

received LED displays ahead of the Premier League clash

and ribbon displays for the stadium.

against Crystal Palace.

Tottenham Hotspur has selected Daktronics to provide

“These market-leading displays support our commitment

new LED video and ribbon displays for the new stadium in

to delivering an unrivalled fan experience, helping to

London. In total, four main video displays totalling more

engage fans from the moment they arrive at our new

than 1,000 sq metres, two façade displays and three tiers of

home,” said Tottenham Hotspur’s Director of Operations,

ribbon displays have been installed by Daktronics.

Matthew Collecott.

The two south stand displays each encompass 325 sq

A wealth of LED displays are visible across the campus to

metres, while the two north stand displays will each

support fans, from the moment they starting walking up

encompass 190.7 sq metres. Two additional displays are

to the stadium until they reach their seat. This incudes

included in the south west and south east stands, too,

two large, 234 sq metre displays featuring 13HD pixel

measuring at 178.9 sq metres. Each main display features

layouts mounted to the stadium façade to welcome fans as

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THE FULL PITCH they arrive, as well as 54 flag-style displays and 17 single

football setup with a grass pitch to the artificial surface for

totem-style displays.

NFL in just a few hours. The state-of-the-art pitch also

Paxton House, the club’s ticket office, includes two long,

allows the stadium to host concerts and other events on

narrow displays featuring 6mm line spacing above ticket

the hardwearing artificial surface.

windows to inform visitors of availability and open sales

A decision was made by SCX to split the pitch into three

windows for ease of purchasing their tickets, while the

lengthwise sections and, once this was agreed, it was down

Tottenham Experience boasts a new curved LED video display featuring 8mm line spacing to showcase branded content.

As fans reach the east and west atriums, they are greeted with approximately 200 sq metres of wall-covering display space with 4mm line spacing. These displays help brand the venue, engage fans and immerse them in the live event experience.

“Immediately upon entering Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, you are welcomed with a wall of video targeted specifically for the fans and programmed to kick off the excitement that awaits them inside the bowl,” said Pete Egart, Vice President of Europe, Middle East and Africa markets for Daktronics.

The stadium’s auditorium display will afford the club the flexibility to use the space as a multi-purpose facility for events such as press conferences, presentations and private screenings. Rounding out the project, 15 locker room clocks and four delay-of-game timers were installed at the stadium to accommodate American professional football standards for hosting these events at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

“For fan engagement, it’s about the way a system is used - there is a full production gallery and the audio system takes feeds from that, creating an experience for the fans with audio and video working together in the bowl and other areas of the stadium. The audio system isn’t directly responsible for the fan engagement aspect, as it were, but it certainly facilitates it.”

“The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium team has reinforced its commitment to a fan first approach,” Pete continued. “The integration of technology combined with the commitment to preserving the history and culture of their storied club

to Nick Cooper FREng, Head of Moving Structures, and

will ensure a unique and breath-taking experience for all

his team to design and integrate the pitch, surrounds and

visitors to the new stadium.”

supporting services into the build.

For the signage within the stadium, the club announced

Each section of the pitch is mounted on rails that are

LG as its official digital signage supplier. There are close

beneath the NFL pitch, allowing the grass pitch to be rolled

to 1,800 screens used by the club for the concourse and

in and out from under the south stand. The process starts

premium areas. A wide range of digital signage products,

with the central section rolling in, with the two outer

such as OLED, UHD and video walls have been utilised to

sections pulling alongside before moving inwards to meet

inform and notify fans on event days, with unique content

the central part.

and menu boards, as well as showing, when available, live

The three sections of the pitch, which weigh a total of

Premier League football on Tottenham Hotspur’s match

9,000 tonnes, fit together seamlessly and are composed

days, helping to support the club’s aim of enhancing the

of 33 metal trays welded together from 16mm-thick steel

experience inside the stadium.

plates.

Matthew continued: “We are delighted to add LG to our

Every second tray in each section is powered by 68 electric

ever-growing portfolio of stadium suppliers, as specialists

motors to move them into place. With the pitch surrounds,

in consumer electronics. LG is providing technologically

advertising boards and goals removed, it takes just 25

advanced OLED displays and commercial TVs that are

minutes to roll the pitch away - with only two people

intuitive, responsive and energy efficient and will help us

needed for the process. To get the stadium ready from one

in delivering a world-class event day experience for all

event to the other takes only four hours.

visitors to our new home.”

Hydraulic cylinders raise the sidelines once the pitch is

Carolyn Anderson, Marketing Director, LG Electronics said:

in place, before the flaps are lowered down to rest on the

“We are extremely proud to have been selected to provide

edge of the turf. In each corner of the pitch, ramps pivot

our industry-leading televisions for a truly exciting

upwards to allow for access from beneath the stand, and

project. LG is a leading innovator in technology and we

then the whole structure is locked into place.

look forward to working with the club in their efforts to set

SCX, in partnership with SGL and Hewitt Sportsturf, has

a new standard in fan experience.”

also developed the world-first integrated pitch grow lighting system that is now in operation at Tottenham

050

PITCH

Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham Hotspur play on the world’s first dividing,

The revolutionary moving structure weighs approximately

retractable grass football pitch, which is mounted in three

120 tonnes, with 864 individual lights covering a total of

huge trays, allowing the grass surface on top to be rolled

7,525 sq metres. Grow lighting systems are used to create

away underneath the south stand. This reveals an artificial

an optimum growing environment when there is limited

American football field for NFL games as part of the 10-

direct sunlight getting to the grass, as is the case in most

year partnership that is in place.

large stadia.

The club enlisted the help of engineering firm, SCX, which

The old pitch grow lighting system at White Hart Lane,

specialise in complex kinetic architecture, to deliver the

much like most stadiums, consisted of traditional

retractable pitch. The stadium can quickly convert from its

wheeled-in units that were rolled onto the pitch and

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Untitled-1 1

05/06/2019 14:35:05

manoeuvred into position.

costs. For example, the SGL growth model calculates

The club, along with engineers from SCX and SGL, have

where and how long to apply additional lighting in order to

now developed an integrated system that is quicker and

maintain the desired quality. The lighting systems can be

more effective to operate from a dedicated storage room

operated from the Portal on any mobile device and can run

underneath the north stand. From here, the structure

on timers. This enables the grounds team to run the lights

is lifted hydraulically onto rails that are permanently

exactly the right number of hours required and not waste

mounted on the east and west pitch trays, seamlessly

electricity.

rolling from one end of the pitch to the other.

Ultimately, the Smart SGL System is all about providing

This enables full coverage of the pitch without equipment

the grounds team with the right combination of data

ever coming directly into contact with the grass surface.

and tools, so they can manage and maintain the highest

There is even enough distance between the pitch and the

possible quality pitch in the most efficient way possible.

grow lighting system to enable ground staff to continue

Darren Baldwin, Head of Playing Surfaces and Estates,

tending to the grass while the system is in use.

Tottenham Hotspur, said: “We are proud that a

An irrigation system is fitted on top of the structure, so the

collaborative approach between the club, SGL, SCX and

grass can be watered from above when the units are in use.

Hewitt Sportsturf has resulted in such an innovative

This lighting system is part of SGL’s Smart Pitch

design.

Management System, which consists of a wide range of

“The club is striving for excellence throughout the stadium

unique tools that together analyse and optimise the growth

and this technology could be a trendsetter for pitch care in

conditions of the pitch.

stadia across the world.”

The growing conditions are measured 24/7 by the SGL

052

analysers on the pitch, whereby the data is displayed on

LIGHTING

the SGL Portal at all times. Calculations on this data are

For the pitch lighting, Tottenham Hotspur selected Musco

performed in the background continuously, which result in

Lighting as its official stadium field of play lighting

quality analyses and forecasts. This data is simultaneously

supplier.

converted into advice for the input to optimise grass

A total of 324 floodlights are mounted on the underside of

quality and health, such as nutrition, irrigation and light,

the stadium’s roof in clusters of six. The optically advanced

but also the use of the TC50 and UVC180.

LED system requires only 450kW of power, which is

The data and advice not only help the grounds team to

around 50% less energy consumption than a traditional

keep their pitch in top condition, but also help to reduce

metal halide floodlighting system.

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

THE FULL PITCH

The lighting meets all UEFA and NFL requirements, as well

given to the needs of the fans when creating the lighting

as having the ability to produce incredible light shows that

design, including the importance of both the vertical and

can be used for a range of major events - making it the

horizontal illumination.

ideal setup for a multi-use venue like Tottenham Hotspur

Zumtobel came up with a design that was based on a

Stadium.

comfortable and safe environment for players, employees

Virtually all aspects of the LED system have been custom

and visitors to the stadium, providing the perfect

designed and fabricated to create a site-specific solution to

illumination for the home changing room, players tunnel,

match the unique features of the state-of-the-art venue.

hospitality areas, media café, microbrewery, general

Luminaires and cross arms were built to meet the exact

admission concourses, Tottenham Experience retail space,

specifications at each location, and supporting electronics

NFL locker rooms and terrace safety lighting.

were remotely mounted in dedicated electrical rooms.

The players’ tunnel has been illuminated using Custom

Custom controls for the field-of-play lighting integrate

Active Light Wall, two huge stretch ceiling fittings that

with other architectural and feature lighting to create

have been personalised in Zumtobel’s Dornbirn, Austria

cutting-edge light shows and a truly unique entertainment

factory, in conjunction with SLOTLIGHT tuneableWhite.

experience.

Elsewhere, 200 VIVO spotlights in a special Ocean Blue

Matthew picks up the story again: “Musco has specialised

paint finish have been installed in the media café to

in the design and manufacture of stadium lighting

provide an ideal working environment for reporters.

solutions for over 40 years. Their experience and ability

Black ONDARIA circular luminaires and VIVO spotlights

to provide pioneering solutions for arenas and stadiums

illuminate the Tottenham Experience retail space, the

around the world gives us the utmost confidence in their

largest football club retail space in Europe. Thanks to its

capabilities to deliver the best solution for the club’s new

distinct radius and soft contours, in addition to a subtle

stadium.”

indirect component, ONDARIA almost seems to float in

“Tottenham was committed to building one of the most

the air, making it particularly well-suited for prestigious

unique and innovative stadiums anywhere in the world,”

areas. The luminaire allows for a fully flexible arrangement

said Jeff Rogers, President of Musco World. “Pretty much

and blends perfectly into every room layout. VIVO LED

everything we installed was custom designed and built

spotlights from Zumtobel are a stand out solution due

to meet the exact needs of all of the stadium’s unique

to their high colour rendering index and extremely

architectural features. We’re confident that the field of

uniform light distribution. Unique PiLED technology,

play lighting will help create an unforgettable stadium

pre-programmed colour points and premium lens systems

experience for Tottenham, and we’re proud to have been

pave the way for exclusive implementations. The premium

able to partner with the club again.”

areas have been given a welcoming ambience with a wide

Away from the pitch, Zumtobel Group was chosen as the

variety of luminaires.

official lighting supplier, with its task being to design and

Custom-made CRAFT L LED, flicker-free high bay LED

develop cutting edge intelligent lighting solutions across

luminaires with a special colour temperature of 5,700K,

the stadium, including the player facilities, internal seating

have been installed to provide the safety lighting for

bowl, concourses, premium areas and the extensive glass

the terraces within the bowl and match the field of play

façade that wraps around the outside of the venue.

lighting. CRAFT meets high requirements for colour

Zumtobel Lighting - a member of Zumtobel Group - took

rendering with values up to Ra >90, whilst stroboscopic

up the challenge, fielding a superb team and products

effects for rotating machines are also completely unknown

that proved to be exactly the right match. In keeping

to this luminaire, even in the dimmed state.

with the brief from the club, plenty of consideration was

Durable TRINOS IP65 continuous-row lighting system

053

THE FULL PITCH has been installed in the Microbrewery to combine the flexibility and functionality of a trunking system with the tough resistance of an IP65 luminaire, designed for environments that demand a higher degree of protection.

Over 22,000 luminaires from the Zumtobel Group lighting brands - acdc, Thorn

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Opening Ceremony

and Zumtobel - have been installed throughout the stadium. These include acdc’s BLADE fixtures for the ‘halo’ and façade and FUSION in the seating bowl, Thorn’s STEALTH custom luminaire in the concourse circulation area, Zumtobel’s Black ONDARIA circular luminaires and VIVO spotlights in the Tottenham Experience retail space, PANOS infinity downlights and SLOTLIGHT tunableWhite and RGBW LED Tape in the changing rooms, physio and relaxation areas, Custom Active Light Wall and SLOTLIGHT tunableWhite in the players tunnel and VIVO spotlights in the media café, custom-made CRAFT L LED in the seating bowl and many other luminaires from the product portfolio of Zumtobel Group’s lighting brands are installed throughout the stadium.

Zumtobel Group and Tottenham Hotspur have worked together closely on the project to ensure that the the stadium’s lighting requirements are met, all while saving energy and creating the best possible environment for staff and visitors alike.

Alfred Felder, Zumtobel Group CEO, commented: “We are proud to be partnering with Tottenham Hotspur, one of the world’s top football clubs, to provide lighting solutions for the new, iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Translating the specifications and ideas of the architect and the light designer into tangible products was a major challenge but one we were able to meet thanks to our design expertise and product portfolio.”

Matthew concluded: “We have sought to create a world-class stadium in every aspect and that includes sourcing an innovative solution to our lighting. This has been made possible through the Zumtobel Group and we have been extremely pleased with the results they have achieved as part of this iconic project.”

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is what happens when a club has a bold, detailed vision for its own future, as well as putting the most important aspect of the whole setup at the forefront of the plans - the supporters. When a club maintains its focus on the fans, it’s rare that they will go wrong. However, praise must be given to Spurs and all the companies involved for the way in which they approached the project with fearlessness - offering world firsts in technology and design.

Christopher Lee of Populous summed it up: “I must say, I’ve never worked on a project anywhere in the world that has had such positive feedback. Particularly in the UK, it’s quite a daunting task to be asked to take on designing a stadium for a club like Spurs. The club had been at White Hart Lane for so long - the fans loved it, it had an amazing atmosphere, and the intensity of the seating bowl was brilliant.

“It really is challenging. But, I was there on the opening night, sitting on a table next to a Spurs fan who had been going for about 45 years - and he said ‘it’s just like coming home’. I’ve heard Harry Kane say exactly the same thing - the first game the team played there, it felt like home. That, for us - and certainly for me personally was the best compliment I could ever receive.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s aspirations of having the best stadium in the UK have certainly been eclipsed - it may well be the best in the world.

A new benchmark in stadium design has been set.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION AUDIO: Soundcraft Vi1000 mixing console | Crown DCI 4|1250DA amplifiers | Crown DCI8|600DA amplifiers | JBL VLA-C2100 loudspeakers | JBL C125S subwoofers | JBL Control 10 loudspeakers | JBL Control 40 loudspeakers | JBL AWC82 loudspeakers | JBL CSS-15C-VA loudspeakers | JBL CSS-H15 loudspeakers | JBL CSS-H30 loudspeakers | JBL Control 23 loudspeakers | JBL Control 25 loudspeakers | JBL Control 28 loudspeakers | JBL AM5212 loudspeakers | JBL Control 67 Pendant loudspeakers | JBL CBT50 loudspeakers | JBL CBT1000 loudspeakers LIGHTING: Musco Lighting floodlights | Zumtobel VIVO spotlights | Zumtobel ONDARIA circular luminaires | Zumtobel CRAFT L LED luminaires | Zumtobel TRINOS IP65 lighting system | acdc BLADE fixtures | acdc FUSION fixtures | Thorn STEALTH luminaire | Zumtobel PANOS infinity downlights

Three performances, 10 minutes, 62,000 fans, and a TV audience of millions required expert audio delivery for the Opening Ceremony of Tottenham Hotspur’s new stadium.

In 2017, Britannia Row was tasked with providing live audio for the North London football team’s ground closure at White Hart Lane. After proving itself as a trusted audio supplier to the club, two years later the rental house was asked to supply top engineers and a control package for a special event to mark the opening of the club’s new stadium.

Working closely with Donaldson Creative, event producers Gary Beestone Events and Theatre contracted in Britannia Row to ensure a smooth delivery was achieved for the highly anticipated production.

Britannia Row Client Liaison, Tom Brown, explained why it was a very important gig to execute perfectly: “We had some of our expert TV and touring crew working on this job. With an event like this, there’s simply no room for glitches.”

Britannia Row also brought in broadcast sound supervisor, Toby Allington [The BRITs / MTV EMAs] to provide a music feed which Sky then mixed in with their sports ambient mics. The broadcaster had final control over what hit TV screens.

Before the match against London rivals Crystal Palace, fans were treated to 45-minutes of team favourites

by The Tottenham Hotspur Marching Band before the official Opening Ceremony was broadcast live on UK TV. The artists comprised a choir from Gladesmore Community School (orchestrated by Musical Director, Steve Sidwell) with Lanya Matthews leading the vocal celebrations. The pupils were also joined by Spurs super fan and Welsh tenor, Wynne Evans.

Britannia Row provided the live audio mix and a broadcast feed for the Sky Sports crew. Mixing desks deployed were Yamaha QL1s, which received stems from the Britannia Row playback system. A package of Shure handheld microphones, Shure IEMs and 32-channels of RF were also utilised.

Tom continued: “The RF needed some figuring out, with the channel list fitting for TV coverage. As far as our equipment goes, we deliberately designed the system with a small footprint. We built the spec around the varied line-up [from a soulful songstress to rap and operatic vocals], which played for around 10-minutes.”

Gary Beestone concluded: “This mini concert had a huge audience and called for a collaborative approach between both our team and Brit Row. We had a very intense task ahead but with Tom Brown in place handling audio from the very beginning, it meant the project benefited from absolute continuity; from conception right through to the delivery, I knew we were in safe hands.”

LED DISPLAYS | DIGITAL SIGNAGE: 4 x Daktronics main video display | 2 x Daktronics façade display | Daktronics ribbon displays | 1,800 x LG digital display

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06 VENUE FOCUS

AUDIO

BROADCAST

058 Ascot Racecourse | Ascot, England

080 EVS Round-Up | Åre / Östersund, Sweden

064 Shanghai International Circuit | Shanghai, China

086 UEFA Europa League Final | Baku, Azerbaijan

LIGHTING

CROWD INTELLIGENCE

066 Lake Placid Olympic Center | New York, USA

088 Sydney Cricket Ground | Sydney, Australia

eSPORTS

SIGNAGE

074 OGN Super Arena | Los Angeles, USA

090 Citizen Banks Park | Philadelphia, USA

TURF 096 ProPlay | Shock Pads

AUDIO

ASCOT RACECOURSE Ascot, England

Images: Ascot Racecourse

A

scot Racecourse has announced that Bose Professional has been named Official Technology Supplier - Sound, the first appointment of its type in the venue’s rich,

300-year history.

The Official Technology Supplier category has been created for brands that are able to supply relevant technology at Ascot, allowing them to showcase their products and improve customer experience.

AUDIO

060

The partnership was established through a combined

So, when it comes to Royal Ascot, we need to make sure

vision to design and install a state-of-the-art audio

they’re getting the very best sound quality.

solution that serves to enhance the unique and special

“What Bose Professional were offering from a technical

experience that is an Ascot race day.

standpoint and a partnership opportunity proved to be the

Bose Professional, the professional audio division within

most attractive option for us. Bose are a company that we

Bose Corporation, serves many different markets and

feel can deliver the very best to our customers - I think

delivers great sound in venues all around the world -

Bose sits quite nicely in the company of the Royal Ascot

sports stadiums, arenas, entertainment centres, places

brand.”

of worship, restaurants, schools, retail stores, hotels and

As the appointed integrator for the project, SSE Audio

more.

Group has led the process to design and specify an audio

With a passion for delivering incredible audio experiences

system that utilises the very latest loudspeaker and

over the past 40 years, the dedicated Bose Professional

amplifier technology, developed by Bose Professional.

team have earned a reputation for excellence in the

Products were selected based on their ability to form a

specification and management of sound solutions.

robust system that delivers best-in-class vocal clarity and

It is this passion and long-held commitment to developing

consistent, intelligible sound for every listener, across the

next-generation audio technology that led to the creation

entire Ascot site.

of the latest supplier partnership for Ascot.

The first phase of the install at Ascot has already begun,

George Vaughan, Head of Technology at Ascot Racecourse

with the rest of the project to be completed throughout the

said: “I’ve been here at Ascot Racecourse for just over 14

rest of the year.

months now and one of the things I was keen to look at was

Andy Rigler, UK Sales Manager for Bose Professional,

getting technology suppliers to facilitate different areas of

discussed the plans further: “Over the course of 2019, the

our business. Bose Professional has become the inaugural

installation will be completed in carefully planned phases

member of that group, but there will be others that follow.

around racedays, ensuring no disruption for guests. The

“The sound is quite an important part of the racing

first installation phase is currently underway within the

experience and we have to make sure that the quality

Royal Enclosure, and we’re delighted to announce that the

is delivered to our customers in what is a premium

first preview of Bose Professional loudspeakers will debut

racecourse and one of the foremost racing events globally.

to guests within this area at Royal Ascot.”

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AUDIO

George added: “We’re very excited to be working with a

“This ties in fantastically with Ascot’s own aspirations

brand like Bose. Unlike a traditional stadium, where it’s

to become recognised as a technology leader within

perceived differently, audio needs to be consistent for

the racing world. Once again, we have had the pleasure

us because of the delivery of commentary. Plus, we have

of collaborating on the project with SSE, as Ascot’s

people that are in our venue for a very long time, unlike

preferred integrator, so we can be confident of a successful

football or rugby for example.

outcome.”

“I came from Twickenham before coming here and it’s just a completely different set of expectations and delivery via sound. It’s much more integral to the racing experience, so it was very important that we got the right company on board.”

Andy is confident that Bose can deliver for Ascot: “We believe we will truly enhance the audio experience for Ascot’s guests, showcasing our latest technologies, including the new ArenaMatch loudspeaker range.

INSTALLER: SSE Audio Group | BRAND: Bose Professional | WEBSITES: www.sseaudiogroup.com, pro.bose.com 062

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YEARS OF INNOVATION

SHANGHAI INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT Shanghai, China

Images: Electro-Voice, Dynacord

C

064

ompleted back in 2004, the Shanghai

in Shanghai. The aim was to blend nature and technology

International Circuit in China has played host

together.

to the Chinese Grand Prix ever since. At its

The professional audio technology is a key part of any

time of completion it was the most expensive

Formula One Championship, and it was decided recently

Formula One circuit ever built - this title was topped by

that this element was in need of an update at the Shanghai

Abu Dhabi in 2009. Though finished after the millennium,

International Circuit, in time for this year’s race. The

plans for the track date back to the 1990’s, and it was

circuit PA system is so important because it influences

during the planning stage that engineer and architect firm,

both the audience and the drivers’ race day experiences,

Tilke, was brought into the project.

therefore, many considerations were made before it was

Tilke designed the 5.5km racetrack that is shaped like

decided that a solution from Electro-Voice and Dynacord

the Chinese character ‘shang’, which symbolises high

was the right choice.

or above. The track features one of the trickiest corner

The Shanghai International Circuit can cater for up to

sequences on the current Formula One calendar, making

200,000 spectators, so designing and installing an audio

it a thrilling race for drivers and spectators alike. Off the

solution that would offer ample coverage for all areas in

track, Tilke implemented further Chinese symbols within

outdoor conditions is no easy task. This installed primarily

the architecture of the buildings, which are arranged like

focussed on the main grandstand, which is 400-metres

pavilions in a lake to resemble the ancient Yuyan-Garden

long and 40.6-metres wide. Stepped from south to north,

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AUDIO

its height ranges from 2.74- metres to 27-metres offering

grandstand are Dynacord IPX Series multi-channel DSP

the audience one of the best viewing platforms for the race.

amplifiers - just 15 of them are required to drive the full

The starting line, where the thrilling action begins, is a

EVH system. Designed for the highest performance in

highlight that can be seen from the main grandstand,

fixed applications, IPX models deliver up to 20,000W

but it is not just sight that is important, sound is too.

per unit, immensely reducing the rack space, and are

Anyone who has seen a Formula One race, either live

equipped for use with both Dante and OCA. The IPX Series

or via TV broadcast will know the howling engines are

offer seemingly unlimited power and pristine audio

incredibly loud as the drivers wait for the flag to be

quality making them the ideal partner for the EVH Series

waved, commencing the start of the race. To complement

loudspeakers and for the venue itself.

this extremely loud environment with powerful, clear

With the Shanghai International Circuit currently

audio quality, the main grandstand’s loudspeakers were

scheduled to remain on the Formula One calendar until

upgraded to Electro-Voice EVH Series. A total of 39 EVH

at least 2020, the venue has given itself a strong chance

two-way horn-loaded loudspeaker cabinets provide even

of a calendar extension beyond next year, thanks to the

coverage and high intelligibility in the reverberant areas,

installation of its new sound system. Set up for the future,

effectively solving the sound reinforcement challenges

it seems highly likely that spectators will continue to enjoy

that Formula One events pose.

the Chinese Grand Prix at this purpose-built, historical

To power the new Electro-Voice EVH Series in the main

venue.

ENGINEER / ARCHITECT: Tilke | BRANDS: Eletrco-Voice, Dynacord | WEBSITES: tilke.de, www.electro-voice.com, www.dynacord.com 065

LIGHTING

LAKE PLACID OLYMPIC CENTER New York, USA

Images: ADJ

E

stablished in 1968, the longstanding International Children’s Games branched out in 1994 with the launch of the Children’s Winter Games. Sponsored by the Olympic

Committee, this year the competition was held in Lake Placid, New York, giving young athletes from around the world the chance to compete at the highest level in a wide range of winter sports.

LIGHTING

068

While the games are all about celebrating exceptional

heads up in the bleachers, spacing them out approximately

sporting achievement, for ADJ it’s also about putting on a

every eight feet.

memorable show for the spectators.

“The moving heads ran all the way round the horseshoe,”

Having worked with the historic Olympic Center on

explained Eric. “We used the BSWs for a combination of

countless competitions, Lighting Designer, Eric Wilson,

tight washes and wider washes with a prism effect. So we

was brought in to deliver an epic light show for the

did shoot a gobo, but we used the prism to blur it and then

Children’s Winter Games Opening Ceremony.

added rotation, creating this unique water effect - so much

Translating the event’s ethos and themes into a light show,

more than just a straight wash. I am also very familiar with

while considering the practicalities and limitations of

the capabilities of the RXONEs, so I knew that the tight 3°

lighting an 8,000 capacity venue was a challenge for Eric. A

beam angle would do exactly what I wanted for aerials.”

long-time user, he called on a wide range of ADJ’s versatile

Together, the Vizi BSW 300s and Vizi Beam RXONEs

fixtures and controllers to actualise his vision.

accomplished a big-impact display, with the former

Inside the large arena, 12 ADJ Vizi BSW 300’s and 12 ADJ

washing the ice in lush colours - drawing on its potent

Vizi Beam RXONEs formed the crux of the lighting setup.

300W output and variable 18°-26° wash beam angle - and

The ceremony was laid out in a horseshoe shape, with a

the latter creating stunning mid-air effects thanks to

central façade and truss archway forming the visual focus

its super-sharp 3° beam angle, smooth micro-stepped

for the audience up in the bleachers. To ensure enough

movement and choice of 14 colours plus white and 15

coverage across this large space, Eric placed the moving

gobos plus spot. But, when it came to the Vizi BSW 300’s,

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070

the role they played went even further. “The BSW 300 is

great job of projecting snowflake patterns so that they

an incredibly versatile unit and we used it predominantly

appeared to float around the arena - both on the ice and

for the washes. But, because it is a hybrid fixture, it also

around the bleachers - as people were being seated. Then,

offered us so much more. When the torch came in, we used

when the show started and we fired up the newer moving

them to create a search light effect, and that looked pretty

heads, we were able to create real impact,” Eric furthered.

damn cool,” Eric said. “When I designed this event, that

As most lighting designers / production managers will

was kind of the idea; I needed to be able to light up the

attest to, it’s very rare that any event goes without a hitch.

athletes on the ice as well as create aerial effects, and the

Something to challenge the LD and force creativity with

BSWs could cover both jobs.”

the lighting fixtures. For Eric, this challenge came by way

Before the ceremony actually started, it was eight ADJ

of a lost gobo - the day before the Games.

Vizi Spot Pros that put in the work - projecting custom

Eric had promised his clients that he would project the

snowflake gobos to tie in with the winter theme. This

Games logo, as well as a sponsor logo down onto the ice,

meant that Eric could save the Vizi BSW 300’s and Vizi

and had arranged for custom gobos to be created for the

Beam RXONEs to deliver maximum impact and excitement

BSWs. However, during setup one of the crew managed

when the ceremony got underway.

to lose one, throwing a real spanner into the works.

“My Vizi Spot Pros are around 10-years-old but are still

Not wanting to disappoint, Eric recreated the logos on

going strong and weren’t out of place in the arena setting.

transparencies with a laser printer, and used ADJ Ikon

Obviously, they weren’t as bright as the BSWs or RXONEs,

Profiles to project the patterns down from a gantry 52ft

so we primarily used them for the pre-show. They did a

above the ice.

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LIGHTING

One of the stand out features of the International

projecting star gobos, the BSWs doing a vibrant red wash

Children’s Winter Games’ impressive production was the

and the RXONEs shooting out white beams for the stripes.”

archway through which this year’s talented young athletes

While the Vizi BSW 300’s, Vizi Beam RXONEs and Vizi Spot

entered the arena. To make the most of this feature, Eric

Pros were no doubt the stars of the show, Eric also utilised

decided on ADJ Inno Pocket Z4’s, which were mounted

a set of compact, battery-powered WiFLY EXR Hex Pars,

on top of the archway truss and used to provide various

their hex-colour LEDs and adjustable dual-bracket yoke

colour-changing wash effects thanks to its variable tight

ensured Eric could splash the blue backdrop in the perfect

or wide beam angle and 10W quad-colour LEDs.

white hue for a sleek finish. Meanwhile, the truss pillars

“The Inno Pocket Z4’s are versatile little fixtures, which

themselves were lit using ADJ Mega Go Par 64’s - fixtures

we used in two different ways,” explained Eric. “First,

which, according to Eric, were purchased back in 2012 and

we set them to white and a wide beam angle to illuminate

are still going strong, having served him well for countless

the children as they walked through the arch so that the

events, which is a great testimony to the build quality and

cameras could pick them up. Then, once the kids were out

durability of ADJ fixtures.

in the arena, we switched to tighter beams and recreated

“We also used two Entourage fazers to fill the entire arena,

the colours of the flag for that particular national team. We

with the help of some fans behind them, to help fill those

also applied the same principle to the rest of the lighting

hard-to-reach spaces, we cranked up the Entourages

rig. So, when the US team walked in waving their flag, the

and they did an amazing job of hazing the entire venue,”

Z4’s were doing high-energy chases in red, white and blue,

explained Eric. “By putting them on full power with the

while in the rest of the arena we had the Vizi Spot Pros

premium ADJ fluid, we were able to create some amazing

071

LIGHTING

beam-enhancing haze effects.”

the Olympic rings, providing a real spectacle and talking

All of this was tied together thanks to the ADJ Compu Show

point for passers by. Eric was more than pleased with how

and myDMX 3.0 lighting control software. Programmer

the fixtures performed and his clients were impressed

and operator, Edgar Gonzales used Compu Show

with the results too. “Somebody even commented that

alongside an Elation Professional MIDICON II for the main

our lightshow was equal to, if not better than, what they’d

lightshow, while Corey Hoffman was down on the ice

seen on the touring Stars On Ice figure skating show, and

operating myDMX to run the Z4’s and Mega Go Par 64’s.

that’s one of the biggest compliments I’ve ever received.

Another challenge thrown at Eric and his team was the

Stars on Ice is a huge production, using some very

availability of access to the arena. With the ice used day

expensive fixtures. With that in mind, the extent of what

in and day out for skating practice, programming of the

these ADJ lights can do is pretty darn cool. Knowing the

lighting rig had to be carried out over night. “We had to go

product so well was the key. I use these lights all the time

in to the rink after all the day’s activities had concluded,

and was confident that I could produce a great show with

usually at midnight, and stay until sun up. We would fill

the ADJ fixtures. The results speak for themselves, ” Eric

the arena with haze and then start by doing all of our

concluded.

focussing and aligning. You have to make sure all of the

By getting creative with his lighting setup, Eric was able

lights are hitting their marks and perfectly spaced or it will

to put the versatility and power of ADJ lighting to highly

throw off the patterns. Once that was done, we got to work

effective use without breaking the bank. His goal was to

programming and creating scenes. We had the script for

generate a stunning lightshow that really captured the

the Opening Ceremony in front of us and designed specific

themes and ethos of the International Children’s Winter

scenes for each element of the show,” Eric added.

Games - and, with ADJ’s help, he did just that.

Tying the two contracts together, he used the outdoor lighting for the International Children’s Winter Games to illuminate the outside of the arena in the five colours of

LIGHTING DESIGNER: Eric Wilson | BRAND: ADJ | WEBSITE: www.adj.com 072

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ESPORTS

OGN SUPER ARENA Los Angeles, USA

Images: Astro Spatial Audio

O

GN was founded in the year 2000, it is a

in 2003, and since then has shattered records when it

leading South Korean eSports promoter and

comes to attendance for gaming finals such as the Starcraft

broadcasting station dedicated to gaming. Its

II ProLeague Finals.

formation was a significant step forward in

It wasn’t until late last year though, when OGN took the

the world of eSports. OGN created the first eSports league

huge leap and opened the first OGN Studio in Los Angeles,

ESPORTS

076

a purpose-built Battle Royale-dedicated arena in the US,

player’s in-game characters ready to deploy into the sky’.

known as the OGN Super Arena. The new home for the

To deliver the visual content, DXP LIVE supplied two

headquarters of all things OGN in America spans 35,000 sq

disguise 4x4pro servers that were installed at the arena.

ft and is located in the heart of Manhattan Beach Studios,

Designed for the largest video surfaces in the world, the

on Manhattan Beach, California. Built for Battle Royale

4x4pro comes with more inputs and outputs - compared

titles including PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) ,

to other servers from disguise - and can play up to 32 HD

Fortnite, Call of Duty, the facility is entirely modular and

layers of content. It is also one of the fastest processes

can be adapted to host the most popular MOBA games and

with twin 10Gbit/sec Ethernet connections, the 4x4pro can

mobile eSports titles.

transfer huge files in a matter of minutes - a key feature

With eSports being one of the world’s fastest growing

for the eSports arena. System Engineer and Programmer

areas of sports entertainment, OGN wanted its first

on this project for the disguise equipment was Benjamin

dedicated studio to be a state-of-the-art facility using

Ryle.

high-end technology to bring the competitions alive for

Backing up the immersive visuals is an all encompassing

the millions of fans worldwide.

audio with true object-based 3D sound courtesy of Astro

It’s difficult to miss the stunning backdrop of the giant

Spatial Audio. “The studio’s screens and audio set-up have

three-sided immersive LED screen on stage that delivers

been designed to provide a more immersive experience

unmissable entertainment not only for those watching

than you’d traditionally expect in a TV studio,” explained

at home but also the in-house audience. In addition,

Matthew Park, who is responsible for the audio project

OGN has also brought the world of Augmented Reality

management at OGN. “In particular, we are trying to

into broadcasts of the PUBG League, through the use of

convey a unique experience to the audience in real time

projection mapping. At the time of making this a reality

using the PUBG game’s API data plus sound location

in the studio, the OGN website stated: ‘Imagine: the

information and directional sound. The real-time 3D sound

beginning of a PUBG match, with a bird’s eye view of all

of the game can be reproduced in the studio. It delivers a

the competitors at their gaming stations. Then, a neon

real wow factor for the studio audience.”

overlay appears overhead, with a full 3D rendering of the

The Astro Spatial Audio set-up works in conjunction with

battlefield and airplane flying overhead that houses all the

the Meyer Sound PA at the arena. This was deployed by

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078

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ESPORTS

of the game can be reproduced in the studio. It delivers a

entirely brand independent, freeing audio professionals to

real wow factor for the studio audience.”

choose the loudspeakers, consoles and third party brands

The Astro Spatial Audio set-up works in conjunction with

they want to use.

the Meyer Sound PA at the arena. This was deployed by

“Astro Spatial Audio 3D sound is an integral part of

William Nealie from the Hettema Group with back-up

shows at the OGN Arena, where it’s crucial that audience

from Meyer Sound’s senior technical team to help tune

members feel utterly immersed in the action taking place

the system after installation. The main L-C-R arrays each

on the screens,” explained Astro Spatial Audio Managing

comprise five Meyer Sound LINA cabinets and one Meyer

Director, Bjorn Van Munster. “The whole point of an

Sound 750-LFC unit. Together the line array cabinets and

eSports like Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds is that

the compact low-frequency control element offer inherent

you can compete without the limits of the real world,

linearity, low distortion, and exceptional power-to-size

so of course OGN wanted to extend that same feeling to

ratio. Four additional subwoofers, the 900-LFCs have been

everyone in the room. If a player in the game fires a gun,

installed under the staging area.

the audience hears the bullets whistle past, if a grenade is

Rear and surround fills are provided by Meyer Sound’s UP

thrown, it feels as if it has exploded in the arena.”

Juniors, which are remarkably compact and lightweight,

Having first experienced Astro Spatial Audio at a

and deliver robust peak power output making them the

demonstration in Seoul, Matthew is happy to report that

ideal accompaniment to the main LINA arrays. Fills for

it is more than meeting his expectations. “It’s helping a

both the VIP area of the arena and gaming stage area are

lot,” he said. “The SARA II is working just as well as we

courtesy of UPJ-1Ps - 17 in total across the two spaces.

hoped. It’s inspired us to develop more 3D audio content

Three Galileo GALAXY networking platforms provide audio

so in time we’re going to be able to do even more. For now,

controls for the cabinets.

the system makes a big impression with our audiences. We

Working seamlessly with the Meyer Sound loudspeaker

have great expectations of what we will go on to achieve.”

set-up, plus the disguise media servers and a combination

With eSports taking off in a big way, it was only a matter

of QLab and Pro Tools, a single Astro Spatial Audio SARA II

of time before fans and competitors alike were going to

Premium Rendering Engine brings the virtual immersive

be drawn out of their homes, where the sport first began,

experience into the real world.

into an arena format. There are a few dedicated eSports

Measuring just 3U but delivering up to 128 Madi or

arenas now built but with eSports revenue expected to

128 Dante configurable network pathways, the SARA

reach US$1.3 billion in 2020, according to the 2017 Global

II converts audio signals into audio objects and uses

eSports Market Report by eSports market research firm

extensive metadata to precisely calculate that object

Newzoo, don’t be surprised to see plans for more in the not

positions within virtual 3D space over 160,000 times per

too distant future.

second, as well as that object’s acoustic effect on the virtual space around it. Crucially, Astro Spatial Audio is

SYSTEM INTEGRATORS: Hettema Group, DWP LIVE | BRANDS: Astro Spatial Audio, Meyer Sound, disguise | WEBSITES: thehettemagroup.com, dwplive.com, www.astroaudio.eu, www.meyersound.com, www.disguise.one

Creative. immersive. experienCe.

Create truly outstanding performances.

Immerse your audience in three-dimensional sound.

info@astroaudio.eu • www.astroaudio.eu ASA MONDOSTADIA 1-3hor v1.1.indd 1

16/6/19 01:55

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EVS ROUND-UP Åre / Östersund, Sweden

Images: EVS

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wedish national public broadcaster SVT utilised EVS live production technology to successfully deliver two complex and ambitious remote productions for high-

profile winter sports events. The Åre 2019 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships and the Östersund 2019 IBU World Championships Biathlon took place in February and March in the neighbouring Swedish resorts. This presented host

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broadcaster SVT with an opportunity to remotely produce

All EVS LSM replay operators were located in SVT’s

both events from its broadcast centre in Stockholm, some

Stockholm control rooms to provide instant replays,

600km away.

slomos, highlights and closers for the World Feed for

Around 75 uncompressed HD camera signals were

both events. The EVS operators in the control rooms were

transported in IP via two 100 Gbps Telia fibre circuits from

also able to create replays and highlights packages for

the events in central Sweden to SVT’s three control rooms

the World Feed, World Feed Plus and also SVT’s national

back in Stockholm. The main director and vision mixer

production remotely. One of the benefits of the central/

operator for both events were directing from galleries in

remote operation, as all camera feeds were transported

Åre and Östersund that were connected to SVT’s central

directly back to the broadcast centre in Stockholm,

control rooms.

was that SVT’s in-house editorial team working on the

There, SVT scaled up its existing EVS resources for the

national-unilateral production as well as SVT’s winter

specific demands of ingesting and producing the large

program ‘Vinterstudion’ had exclusive material at their

amount of incoming feeds from both Championships,

disposal to craft even more compelling content.

which included standard cameras, triple-speed and six

The World Feed Plus, which was an additional feed

times super slow-motion cameras. This was achieved by

produced and offered by Infront Sports & Media and SVT

bringing in additional industry-standard XT3 ChannelMAX

to all rights holders for the Åre 2019 FIS Alpine World

servers from HDR Sweden to expand SVT’s existing EVS

Ski Championships, was also produced thanks to the EVS

XT3/XS3 production servers and IPDirector PAM software

system. All EVS operators in the gallery were tagging the

suite. The expanded EVS system consisted of over 100

best Super Motion footage from each skier with metadata/

EVS HD channels for both host and national-unilateral

keywords. And thanks to IPDirector’s advanced filtering

operation.

and search capabilities, the World Feed Plus EVS operator

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Santa Fe Opera Asolo Repertory Theater Stratford Festival Paramour

Proven.

Frozen Moulin Rouge Waitress Kinky Boots St Lous Munical Opera Theater Lion King The Wild Party Once On This Island Beetlejuice Benedum Center

Since its introduction, the Lectrosonics SSM bodypack transmitter has endeared itself to sound designers, costumers and talent alike. From TV and Film production to opera and musical theater, the SSM delivers.

With patented, compandor-free Digital Hybrid Wireless® transmission, the SSM provides pure sound and rock solid RF reliability. Then there are the clever features like the app for changing settings, the ability to take updates in the field, and the selectable input configuration for a wide variety of lav and headset mics. Plus, at 2.3 Oz, it is feather light.

Demo the Lectrosonics SSM and join the ranks of fans worldwide. << Scan here to learn more about the SSM

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4/15/2019 8:10:06 AM

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could very quickly have a package ready of every skier

production operations or by enabling remote access and

as soon as they had completed their run. This would not

workflows from OBs on location. The newly released XT-

be possible without EVS’ unique XNet instant live media

VIA and XNet-VIA will bring even more possibilities since

sharing network, as Super Motion clips could be shared

it supports IP SMPTE2110 standards for any production

instantly across the XNet network without any transfer.

environment.”

“We’ve been exploring the possibilities that remote

In addition to its involvement in SVT’s host broadcasts

productions bring since our first test at London 2012, as

for both events, EVS live production equipment was also

they can be both more efficient and more environmentally

extensively used on-site and at the broadcast centres of

friendly. These two recent winter sports events were

numerous rights holders.

landmarks in terms of the sheer scale of what was attempted,” said Adde Granberg, SVT’s CTO and Head of Production.

Laurent Petit, EVS’ SVP Product Manager said: “SVT has been driving forward remote productions for many years and have reached yet another scale on the host production of the Åre 2019 and Östersund 2019 World Championships.

EVS is embracing and supporting such initiatives. From a product/solution development perspective, we do our best to assess our customer’s requirements in such remote

BRAND: EVS | WEBSITE: www.evs.com 084

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SHANGHAI INT. CIRCUIT

OGN SUPER ARENA

JIM SMITH

SEATING FOCUS

Dynacord and Electro-Voice provide a state-of-the-art audio system for the Formula 1 race track.

California’s new eSports venue has opened, with Astro Spatial Audio providing immersive, 3D sound.

AECOM’s Associate Director gives us an insight into his career and the impressive stadiums he’s worked on.

We take a closer look at venues and products from the world of seating, including some upcoming projects.

ISSUE 06 - JUNE | JULY 2019

F RANKF U RT 2020

OR LAND O 2 019

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

A MS T E R DA M 2 0 2 0

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UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL Baku, Azerbaijan

Images: Broadcast Solutions

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he 2019 Europa League Final saw an all-

- just in time for the final - Broadcast Solutions delivered

English tie between Chelsea and Arsenal,

an additional 12-camera OB plus supporting truck to Baku

with The Blues running out comfortable 4-1

Media Center, that will also be used at the UEFA Europa

winners on the night to clinch their second

League final. The new OB truck is based on the Streamline

Europa League title. The final was hosted in Azerbaijan,

S8L design. Streamline OB Vans are pre-engineered

with the Baku Olympic Stadium chosen at the venue for

production vehicles and with over 40 units sold the most

this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game.

successful OB Vans on the market. With the adjusted

BT Sport Channel broadcasted the final between the two

Streamline concept, the S8L offers three dedicated rooms

Premier League sides, with the help of local broadcast

in a box-body combination with 10-12 workplaces and

technology provider, Baku Media Center, together

works with up to 12 cameras. For customers, Baku Media

with Sunset + Vine production company. For the final,

Center and Broadcast Solutions combined the OB Van with

Baku Media deployed their mobile production fleet, all

a supporting truck of the same size, as well as a generator

developed by Broadcast Solutions. BT Sport, one of the

trailer, therefore offering maximum flexibility in the field.

largest telecom providers, screened the game on their

For the Europa League final, Baku Media Center used two

channels, as well as a free live stream on YouTube in UHD.

OB Vans to cover the action from the field and a unique

Broadcast Solutions, Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest OB Van

studio. The signals were aired to the satellite using a

manufacturer, has a long-lasting relationship with Baku

Broadcast Solutions special-built DSNG unit with a four-

Media Center. The German company has delivered several

wheel-drive SUV, developed for Baku Media Center.

production vehicles, including a 16-camera Streamline S16 trailer, plus support vehicle and DSNG. In April this year

BRAND: Broadcast Solutions | WEBSITE: www.broadcast-solutions.de 087

SYDNEY CRICKET GROUND Sydney, Australia

Images: WaitTime

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aitTime, in partnership with Sydney Cricket &

Fans will now be able to make informed decisions on which

Sports Grounds, has announced its installation

catering outlet they purchase from thanks to queuing

of crowd intelligence technology at Sydney

times and directional information displayed on screens

Cricket Ground.

around the venue.

WaitTime’s patented technology will offer fans at Sydney

Zachary Klima, Founder and CEO of WaitTime takes up

Cricket Ground an unparalleled experience by providing

the story: “Sydney Cricket Ground prides themselves on

real-time wait times for restrooms and concessions.

providing premiere fan experiences. They saw WaitTime as

Information will be broadcast to fans via digital signage,

an excellent way-finding and wait-finding tool that would

as well as through future integration into the SCG’s mobile

improve their fans’ experiences by helping them find the

app. The ground will also be able to use this information to

shortest lines.

improve efficiency and guest experience.

“It was PMY Group that proposed the integration of our

As Sydney’s original home of sport, Sydney Cricket Ground

technology, but we also have a strong affiliation with Cisco

is where international and domestic sporting heroes play

Vision - the platform that will display WaitTime to visitors

cricket, rugby union, rugby league, football and Australian

at Sydney Cricket Ground.”

Football League (AFL). The venue also hosted the 2014

“We collaborated with PMY and Cisco to provide a

Major League Baseball Opening Series between the Arizona

comprehensive and efficient installation that utilises

Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

existing venue assets - like infrastructure and monitors,”

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CROWD INTELLIGENCE

explained Zachary. “Sensors are located near each

left impressed with the new WaitTime system: “The new

monitored line. The venue then worked directly with

service allows spectators to view outlet queuing times at

WaitTime to create a real-time, responsive navigation

screens positioned nearby entry points and will soon be

experience via concourse monitors and the mobile app. We

featured on the stadium app.

started the installation in November 2018 and it was all

“I’ve had a close look at this technology and it’s fantastic

completed by May 2019.

- Sydney Cricket Ground will be the first in Australia to

“Sydney Cricket Ground is a complex venue, and we

integrate the offering across an entire venue.”

wanted to create a solution that would help fans easily

Zachary concluded: “Right now, we are focussed on

understand what is around them, what is open, how to get

supporting the current installation by using our system

to other levels, how to get to other stands, and how long

to help Sydney Cricket Ground monitor fan traffic and

the waits are at the locations they are trying to get to.

help improve guest experience. However, the future

“In response, we customised the real-time, smart

might include monitoring gate and entrance activity

navigation system, developing custom software and

or expanding WaitTime to assist other platforms like

signage for each monitor’s unique location. Each sign

navigation and order to go.

is responsive to its immediate location, and shares

“WaitTime has created better experiences for millions of

simplified, relevant information based on where the fan is

fans at venues in the US and internationally. We’re thrilled

standing. Some signs direct fans left and right, some just

to partner with Sydney Cricket Ground, so their fans

left, some even direct right, left and up - but each sign is

can spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the

specific to the fan’s journey at the particular location of

game.”

the sign. Not only can fans see what is around them and what the wait times are, but the venue can also update the information in real-time to let patrons know when locations have been closed.”

Kerrie Mather, Sydney Cricket & Sports Grounds’ CEO, was

BRAND: WaitTime | WEBSITE: thewaittimes.com 089

CITIZENS BANK PARK Philadelphia, USA

Images: Oat Foundry

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odern hospitality is all about creating an

Foundry Split Flap Display is adorned in Phillies colours

engaging experience, and the new Pass and

and serves as a scoreboard, updating in real time thanks to

Stow destination at the Phillies’ Citizens

an API integration that feeds directly from the Daktronics

Bank Park does just that. This 24,500-sq foot

video board on the field.

area features an outdoor beer garden and Goose Island

“The legacy Daktronics integration was a new one for us,”

Bar at the Park, Foundry Pizza serving brick-oven pizza,

Mark D. Kuhn IV, CEO and Co-Founder of Oat Foundry

a family-friendly sports pub and dozens of TVs to catch

explained. “Challenging would describe it, Split Flap

game action, as well as a new 120-seat Shake Shack.

Displays can integrate with many different systems, we

But, what makes this area even more unique are the many

just needed to get creative. Baseball is a game that relied

design features that celebrate local history, as well as

heavy on stats, and those stats are constantly changing. We

merge the past with the present. One great example is the

need to ensure that all of the information was updated in

locally-built Oat Foundry Split Flap Display, a custom

real-time so fans at Pass and Stow wouldn’t miss a beat on

flickerboard that recreates the experience of travelling to

the pulse of the game. With some trial and error, we got it

and from the city’s central transit hub, 30th Street Station

right, even when the game heads to 10+ innings.”

(after 50 years, its much-adored Split Flap Display was

The Split Flap also displays cheers, chants, away game

removed earlier this year.)

scores, updated standings and, of course, the local-

Located inside Pass and Stow’s indoor sports pub, the Oat

favourite Phillie Phanatic. When fans enter the area,

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092

they are greeted to the sound of the display clacking and

the social experience at Pass and Stow.”

changing, creating a moment of awe that draws their

Pass and Stow also infuses other treasured Philadelphia

attention directly to the novel display.

landmarks throughout its design, including the iconic 19ft

“The split flap truly gives fans another fun way to stay

Liberty Bell that was once located atop Veterans Stadium,

connected to the game,” Mark said. “There is so much that

the Phillies’ former home. This newly refurbished bell is

this interactive, high-tech display can do. It’s an exciting

prominently displayed as fans approach Pass and Stow

way for fans to keep up with the action on the field, all

from outside the ballpark’s Third Base Gate, providing a

while enjoying the social experience at Pass and Stow.”

great photo opportunity.

Jamie Trout, Phillies Director of Marketing Events &

Other highlights include a 27ft wide and eight ft tall mural,

Special Projects, explained the draw: “Thanks to Oat

also in Pass and Stow’s indoor sports pub, that depicts

Foundry’s Split Flap Display, fans have another fun way

different Phillies logos dating back to 1883.

to stay connected to the game. There is so much that this

Even the name Pass and Stow is an historic nod to

interactive, high-tech display can do. It’s an exciting way

Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell, which has been part of the

to keep up with the action on the field, all while enjoying

Phillies brand and logo for many years. The name is

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SIGNAGE

derived from the two Philadelphia foundry workers, John

“The Pass and Stow experience is the first of its kind at

Pass and John Stow, who recast the original bell in 1753,

Citizens Bank Park,” Jamie said. “This unique, family-

and whose names are inscribed on that important piece of

friendly social space offers a wide variety of food options,

American history.

as well as fun design elements that celebrate the Phillies

This open-air, food and drink destination also features an

and Philadelphia history. From the Oat Foundry Split Flap

outdoor beer garden decked with trellis lights, fire pits, a

display to the Liberty Bell and more, Pass and Stow is one

Phillies-etched water feature, picnic tables and more. This

of the must-see destinations at the ballpark.”

all leads to large garage doors that provide easy access into the indoor sports pub within Pass and Stow, featuring the sight and sounds of the Oat Foundry Split Flap Display above the bar.

BRAND: Oat Foundry | WEBSITE: www.oatfoundry.com 094

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PROPLAY - SHOCK PADS Images: ProPlay

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roPlay performance remains high even when

has also become more widely recognised. ‘It is almost

synthetic turf carpet is in for replacement

impossible for a field to pass the test when it doesn’t have

Synthetic turf has become a highly engineered

a shock pad underneath the carpet,’ Head of Technical

system and can guarantee and predict the

Services for World Rugby, Mark Harrington said in an

performance and quality of a field over a long period of

interview published in the newsletter of the Synthetic Turf

time. Shock pads play a key role in this performance,

Council (STC) last year. World Rugby is the international

providing a safe and comfortable surface for the duration

custodian of rugby and works together with scientists to

of the game and beyond.

improve the safety of rugby fields. Many international

Players and stadium owners are the major beneficiaries as

sports federations have included the improved norm for a

the synthetic turf allows for safe year-round use of fields

Critical Fall Height in their most recent standards; artificial

for multiple sports and events.

grass fields have to comply to reduce the likelihood of a

Artificial grass sports fields have been around for many

concussion when players hit the field headfirst.

years, but recognition for the contribution they make

With the bar being raised continuously, deciding on which

towards the safety and well being of athletes has more

artificial grass surface should be installed has become

recently gained momentum. The need for a shock pad

a true challenge. “There are many different synthetic

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TURF

with the renewed emphasis on player safety, changes

“They provide a solid foundation and a solid feel underfoot, making it very comfortable for athletes to play on a surface with a highquality shock pad.”

the evaluation process. The science of synthetic turf now allows for systems with improved shock absorption - increased critical fall height, lower Gmax - while maintaining reduced movement under-foot during play (reduced vertical deformation).

Architects and engineers specialised in designing sports flooring systems and sports facilities are able to advise owners in the process. “They are up-to-date with the products that are being offered and the latest trends and developments in the industry. Furthermore, there is a large group of contractors that have tremendous experience in installing synthetic surfaces. These contractors too can provide valuable information,” Leon continued.

Shock pads are an essential component as they absorb the impact when players fall on a field, they also manage the

turf systems and it takes time for buyers to evaluate and

energy a player requires when running over a field. “They

understand which one they should choose,” said Leon

provide a solid foundation and a solid feel underfoot,

Behr, Regional Sales Manager for Schmitz Foam Products.

making it very comfortable for athletes to play on a surface

“Things have now become more complicated as, apart

with a high-quality shock pad,” Leon explained. Good

from selecting the right turf and infill combination, shock

quality shock pads manage the thin balance between

pads have been added to the mix.” This trend, along

providing a solid feel underfoot and the shock absorbing

097

TURF

characteristics. It’s a science that Schmitz Foam Products

of this test. “This offers the facility owner significant

has mastered over many years. Its shock pad, ProPlay,

benefits as he is able to reuse the shock pad for at least two

is being used in sports fields in over 70 countries. Sports

and possibly three installations of turf,” Leon pointed out.

governing bodies and the various developers of synthetic

It’s a warranty period that they substantiate based on an

turf systems extensively test these systems to establish

increasing number of installations. “We have a growing list

how and if they meet the criteria.

of installations where it was decided to replace the carpet

Artificial grass systems, including the shock pad, are

after a number of years but where they continued using the

subjected to rigorous testing before they are approved for

same ProPlay panels that had been installed initially.”

use by international sports federations, the Lisport-XL is

The performance and safety of artificial grass fields can be

one of those tests, it replicates realistic wear simulation of

predicted, even over a longer period. Providing the right

sports fields over years of usage - virtually all companies

artificial grass system is selected, shock pads like ProPlay

base the warranty period for its product on the outcome

can guarantee a safe field for up to 25 years.

INSTALLER: Schmitz Foam | BRAND: ProPlay | WEBSITES: www.schmitzfoam.com, proplaysportsevents.com

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06 EXTRA TIME

PRODUCT FOCUS

EVENT DIARY

102 Goal Light Technology

113 Conferences & Exhibitions

103 Bose

106 Studio Technologies

EXPO

FULL TIME

107 World Footbal Summit Asia

114 Manuel Peris, Co-CEO | D.A.S. Audio

110 World Stadium Congress

Goal Light Technology | Lighting System oal Light Technology (GLT) is a simple, but ingenious lighting system that lets the spectators in the rugby stadium - as well as those at home watching on television - know whether or not a penalty, conversion or drop goal attempt has been successful. The LED light on each upright and the crossbar turns green when a kick is successful or red if missed - giving the visual effect of the posts lighting up.

GLT have developed the technology with the purpose of increasing the sporting experience and fan engagement within the event. The intention is to aid and engage the fans with a quick, obvious indicator of the outcome of the kick attempt.

The system is operated by an encrypted signal switch that is activated manually when the linesmen or referee indicate a successful kick. This then give the fans almost instantaneous feedback on the outcome. The technology is especially useful for those fans sitting at the opposite end of the stadium or those with an obstructed view.

The LED strips are completely programmable, so a variety

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of colours and light combinations can be used. The system is attached to the post by a lace system that will tie at the back of the post, allowing 95% of the post to be covered.

The system is powered by rechargeable battery packs housed within the back of the post protectors, so there is no need for wires under the turf.

Looking forward to potential future implementations, there is the opportunity for the system to be used to further engage supporters - this could be through indicating tries, potential foul play or even on a simple brand identity level, opening up commercial opportunities for clubs and stadiums.

The technology was successfully trialled by World Rugby at the Hong Kong Sevens in April. It was also used at WRUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Judgement Day event at Principality Stadium where Cardiff Blues took on Ospreys after Scarlets faced defeat by the Dragons in the Guinness Pro14 league.

GLT has also gained interest from other sports, such as Gaelic football, hurling and rugby league. www.goallighttech.com

EXTRA TIME

Bose | ArenaMatch ecently introduced, ArenaMatch loudspeaker systems offer a turnkey solution for entire outdoor sound installations and include both array and utility loudspeaker options.

ArenaMatch arrays incorporate DeltaQ technology and make it easy to create durable and reliable outdoor loudspeaker arrays. Also now shipping, ArenaMatch Utility loudspeakers deliver consistent zone-fill coverage and make equalising complete systems much easier.

Designed and built for zone-fill coverage or high-SPL foreground music, the four new Bose ArenaMatch Utility loudspeakers (AMU208, AMU206, AMU108 and AMU105) feature similar tonal balance to ArenaMatch DeltaQ array modules but in compact designs. They have the same EMB2S compression driver as ArenaMatch arrays, ensuring consistent sound, and the same IP55 weather rating. Users may deploy them for zone-fill coverage in sports stadiums, arenas, outdoor entertainment centres, and more. Or they

R

may be utilised to provide intelligible, high-level sound in any outdoor area - from niche venues such as breweries and fairgrounds to larger settings like resorts and outdoor shopping centres. These loudspeakers provide wide, even coverage via a constant-directivity high-frequency horn, which can be rotated for horizontal or vertical installation.

ArenaMatch Utility modules can perform in the most demanding applications with the largest model (AMU208) featuring 70Hz-18kHz frequency range and 126dB maximum peak SPL, with all models supporting the lowest vocal range.

ArenaMatch Utility modules can mount easily with included stainless-steel U-bracket.

ArenaMatch loudspeakers also interface perfectly with Bose PowerMatch amplifiers, ControlSpace DSPs and ControlSpace Designer software, which simplifies setup and monitoring, saving users time with loudspeaker presets for EQ, limiter and crossover settings. pro.bose.com 103

FEBRUARY 2020 | ISE | RAI AMSTERDAM

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

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.

WWW.MONDOSTADIA-AGORA.COM

Studio Technologies | The Model 207 eSports Console tudio Technologies has introduced a new control hub for eSports applications, the Model 207 eSports Console.

The Model 207 is optimised to address the microphone, audio monitoring, and interfacing needs of eSports players and personnel. Housed in a compact, tabletop enclosure, the unit incorporates both analogue and Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology to allow direct integration with personal computers and Ethernet-based audio networks.

In just minutes, an eSports player’s location or position can be integrated into a sophisticated application. “As the popularity of eSports has continued to grow, so has the expectations for the technology used by the competitors and event personnel,” said Gordon Kapes, President of Studio Technologies. “We saw a trend in customers using our existing products for broadcast and streaming eSports applications. The results were adequate but not optimal, which led us to explore the field. We designed the Model 207 expressly to support the needs of these emerging applications.”

Integrating the Model 207 into applications requires only a few standard connections. By providing both a five pin female XLR and a 3.5mm four -conductor TRRS jack, a wide range of headsets can be connected. The XLR connector supports traditional professional headsets that are commonly used with intercom systems. The unit’s 3.5mm TRRS jack allows direct interconnection with low-cost stereo gaming headsets. These headsets are frequently used in gaming applications and can offer excellent performance, as well as meeting the needs of player sponsorship.

The Model 207’s high-quality microphone preamplifier and associated dynamics control circuit ensures optimal audio performance. The microphone audio signal is converted to

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24-bit, 48kHz sample rate digital audio. Following the state of the front-panel pushbutton switches, the microphone audio is routed to two Dante transmitter (output) channels.

For user confidence, an integrated sidetone function is provided.

The Model 207 provides a two-channel ‘stereo’ line input that is directly compatible with the analogue outputs provided by personal computers. A simple audio patch cord is all that is required to connect with the unit’s 3.5mm three conductor (TRS) input jack. The stereo line-input signal is converted to digital and output by way of two Dante transmitter (output) channels.

Obtaining the desired headphone monitor functionality can be easily accomplished. The possible ‘listen’ audio sources include four Dante receiver (input) channels, the stereo line input, and microphone audio for sidetone. Three rotary level controls allow users to create their desired headphone mix. A Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) connection supplies both operating power and data transport.

An extensive range of Model 207 functions can be configured using Studio Technologies’ STcontroller software application, selectable parameters include microphone preamplifier game, electret power on/off, stereo line input gain, headphone monitoring, pushbutton action, and overall system operation. “eSports arenas are technically-sophisticated, ever-shifting environments that require flexible and high-performance technology,” added Gordon. “We equipped the Model 207 with unique, configurable resources, along with careful circuit design for reliable operation and excellent audio performance.” www.studio-tech.com

EXTRA TIME

WORLD FOOTBALL SUMMIT ASIA Images: © World Football Summit Asia aving established itself in Europe, World Football Summit made its debut in Asia on 29-30 April.

Organiser, Nexus Fostering Partnership - in collaboration with Retro Minds Network selected Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia as the setting for the first conference in the region. The two-day event took place at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre and comprised a mixture of main stage keynote speeches, roundtables and panel discussions, an expo area and networking opportunities.

Hosted by well-known sports presenter, David Garrido, who is a regular on Sky Sports News nowadays, the first day kicked off on the main stage with a roundtable titled ‘The Importance of Asia for the Global Football Industry’ - after the opening ceremony - and was followed by a keynote delivered by CEO of Bundesliga International, Robert Klein.

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He gave a brief history of the German football league, and detailed that the first Asian player in the Bundesliga was back in 1977, yet today he believes it has the most Asian players in comparison to its biggest European competitor leagues.

On the Industry Talks stage - a smaller, more intimate platform - Norisham Iskhandar or Motifv8 Projects and Herman Suparman of HARMAN Professional APAC presented ‘Elevating the Sound Experience in Football Stadiums’. The pair discussed how the audio requirements in stadiums have changed in recent years, where it was once required simply for public address announcements and voice evacuation, most stadiums now opt for a full-blown PA capable of delivering the standard PA/VA, as well as high audio quality for sporting events, right through to large scale music concerts. In essence, the sound systems installed in new stadiums being built for large sporting events such as 107

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Olympics or SEA Games, need to be powerful and flexible.

Another session on the main stage was The Evolution of Media, Broadcasting and Fan Engagement in Football.

This panel discussed how the younger generation don’t necessarily want to watch full games anymore, instead they want the best highlights, the goals and interactive content.

Director of Mediapro Asia, Lars Heidenreich said eSports and interactivity is very popular in South East Asia, something he predicts will continue to grow. Tom Gayner, Head of Brand and Content at mycujoo - a company that has a live streaming platform that shares content from over 200 countries creating opportunities for the players, clubs and leagues in the football world - added that he doesn’t feel there is a home for eFootball just yet, but it is a concept that is being tested. eSports was in fact a hot topic during the conference, with another roundtable called ‘eSports and Football: Strategies to Unify Paths’. Head of eSports for AirAsia, Allan Phang discussed how he saw a huge potential for eSports including employer engagement, employer branding, and eSports tourism. Kim Jong Seong from the Korea eSports Association explained how Korea had been invested in eSports for some time, he believes Korea has been one of the driving forces behind the development of eSports since the early 2000’s.

COO of SEA Games, Ramon Suzara said he would like to see a move towards eSports being integrated in the SEA Games - and it is something that is being discussed, so watch this space.

Other sessions that took place at the conference included LaLiga Legends - a treat for any hardcore football fan - with four former players sharing their experience of being part of the biggest league in the world. They shared history and highlights, as well as outlining life after LaLiga. John Dykes of FOX Sports also took to the Industry Talks stage with Steven

Cliffe of Perform for Onstage and Offstage: Data at the Heart of Broadcast. This was arguably the best-attended session on the smaller stage.

Alongside the conference, companies had the opportunity to take a small exhibition space to showcase products and services. Exhibiting companies included Unilumin Sports, Velocity Sports, Asian Electronic Sports Ferderation and Tencate Grass, to name just a few. Networking platforms were presented informally over the lunch breaks, as well as a WFS Asia hosted cocktail evening after the first day of conference. More formal, were the speed networking sessions, which saw participates given a few minutes to chat before moving on to meet the next new contact, and the WFS Asia app, which offered all attendees interaction, information and content.

Having welcomed more than 2,000 attendees at its first edition, it would be fair to rate WFS Asia a success. This is further supported by some top-level praise.

Chairman of Juventus, Andrea Agnelli said: “Bringing such a forum in a country like Malaysia, in Kuala Lumpur specifically can only benefit the whole industry.”

While, Javier Tebas, President of LaLiga added: “We have to be in Asia because it’s a key market in the development of the football industry.” And Jenna Pelkey of the International Olympic Committee concluded: “Asia is showing extraordinary growth, extraordinary impact, whether it’s sport, it’s economics, it’s business, it is something you need to be aware of.”

The next fixtures for the World Football Summit include Madrid on 24-25 September and another new location, Durban in 2020. worldfootballsummit.com

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WORLD STADIUM CONGRESS eld at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam from 20-22 May, World Stadium Congress celebrated its 10-year anniversary with a stellar line up of speakers discussing future trends in fan experience, stadium design, fan security, eSports, broadcasting and year-round revenue generation.

The first day of the event kicked off with a panel discussion titled ‘What is the ideal stadium of the future?’ - moderated

by James Hamilton from Turner & Townsend. Collette Roche, COO at Manchester United; Jacques Henri Evraud, CEO at Olympique de Marseille; Henk Markerink, CEO at Johan Cruyff Arena and Dan Meis, Founder of MEIS Architects, all discussed the best way in which to create a futuristic, sustainable, multi-purpose facility.

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Other highlights from the first day included Miguel Torregrosa, Head of Digital Transformation at FC Barcelona, on how the Catalan giants are taking their facilities to the next level in the next five years - with efficiency, sustainability, technology and experience all being key factors behind the incredible project taking place.

Another fantastic panel towards the end of the first day saw an enlightening discussion on the impact of smart stadiums when it comes to partnerships, sponsorship and revenue generation, with Benjamin Steen, FC Bayern Munich, Dennis C. Thom, Borussia Dortmund, and Matt Roberts, Formula 1, all taking part.

On the second day, Manchester United’s Facilities Manager, Jason Judge, discussed how he ensures that Old Trafford’s 111

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facilities remain available and ready across the year highlighting how the club provide non-match day activities while still meeting match day requirements with efficient planning, preparedness and a dedicated team to mitigate all kinds of risks and errors.

Dan Meis was on stage again, this time with a fascinating presentation on trends in stadium design, including examples of how bigger venues arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily the better option for clubs.

Later on in the day, a session from Darren Whitehouse, Director of Sport and International Projects at the Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA), provided valuable insight as to how venue safety has evolved over the last 30 years, as well as key advice that all sports grounds should consider to improve safety.

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Congress offered ample networking opportunities, with company stands offering visitors a chance to discuss some of the latest technology that can be used in stadiums and sporting venues.

World Stadium Congress will return in 2020. www.iqpc.com/events-worldstadiumcongress

EVENT DIARY 2019/20

XLIVE eSports Summit 25th - 27th June, LA, USA esports.xlivecon.com

Coliseum Summit MENA September, Yas Island, UAE www.coliseum-online.com

Integrated Systems Europe 11th - 14th February, Amsterdam, Netherlands www.iseurope.org

Major Events Summit 26th - 27th June, Birmingham, England www.majoreventsinternational.com

World Football Summit 24th - 25th September, Madrid, Spain www.worldfootballsummit.com

MONDO | STADIA presents AGORA 13th February, Amsterdam, Netherlands www.mondostadia-agora.com

ALSD Conference & Tradeshow 30th June - 3rd July, Chicago, USA www.alsd.com

SPORTELMonaco 21st - 23rd October, Monaco, France www.sportelmonaco.com

Digital Signage Summit Europe 3th - 4th July, Munich, Germany digitalsignagesummit.org/europe

Digital Signage Summit Russia 23th - 25th October, Moscow, Russia digitalsignagesummit.org/europe

Sports Decision Makers Summit 9th - 10th July, London, England www.sportsdecisionmakers.com

ALSD International 28th - 29th October, Dublin, Ireland www.alsdinternational.com

IBC 12th - 17th September, Amsterdam, Netherlands www.ibc.org

FSB 5th - 8th November, Cologne, Germany www.alsdinternational.com

PLASA 15th - 17th September, London, England www.plasashow.com

The Stadium Business Design & Development Summit 25th - 27th November, London, England www.stadiumdesignsummit.com

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Who? Manuel Peris Job title?

Co-CEO, D.A.S. Audio Favourite stadium or sporting venue?

Mestalla Stadium (Valencia Football Club) and Allianz Parque Palmeiras.

Why? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the environment in Mestalla - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a warm atmosphere with Valencia fans and the stadium is the oldest in La Liga.

Palmeiras Stadium is possibly the most multipurpose stadium in the world, in my opinion.

Life motto?

Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn.

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