Features

Austin FC engages Daktronics for new stadium displays

US audiovisual systems company Daktronics has partnered with Austin FC to fit an LED ‘super system’ at the Major League Soccer franchise’s new stadium.

Daktronics will manufacture and install all LED displays, which will feature 10-millimetre pixel spacing and cover 5,580 square feet in total.

A new main video display, two ribbon displays, a pitch perimeter display and a double-sided marquee are currently being fitted at the stadium, which is under construction and is due to open in time for Austin FC’s debut MLS season in 2021.

The main video display will be placed at the north end of the stadium and will measure 24 feet high by 84 feet wide, providing high-resolution imagery to fans across the stadium. The screen will be capable of variable content zoning, enabling it to show one large image or multiple windows of digital content.

The main screen will also show live video, instant replays, up-to-the-minute statistics, game information, graphics, animations and sponsorship messages.

Two ribbon displays will also be fitted along the seating fascia of the stadium, while a pitch perimeter display measuring three feet high by 551 feet in length will surround the field. These will show complementary graphics and information to the main displays and also promote sponsors during events.

Fans will also be greeted by a double-sided marquee display as they arrive at the stadium. The displays will measure around 14.5 feet high by 26.5 feet wide and will share match-up information, sponsor messages and promotions for upcoming events.

Daktronics president and chief executive Reece Kurtenbach said: “Installing a higher resolution product throughout the stadium ensures fans receive a better viewing experience at every event.

“We’re excited to work with the entire Austin FC organisation to bring this project to life for their team and their fans. We look forward to the stadium opening in 2021 with our technology helping the team engage and communicate with their audiences.”

In June, Daktronics launched a new product which aims to bring game day into the home as sports organisations look to adjust to staging behind-closed-doors events. The platform was created with the college sports market initially in mind.

Austin FC recently selected Boingo Wireless to provide Wi-Fi 6 and cellular services at its new stadium, which will have a capacity of 20,500.

Austin FC joined MLS as its 27th club in January 2019 and is the Texan city’s first major league sports team. The club broke ground on its stadium last September.

Image: Daktronics