I READ recently that VAR is being introduced into gymnastics and the technology will be used at the World Championships in October. If all goes well, it may be utilized at the 2020 Olympics.
In some quarters there is talk that this decision could ultimately shift control over the sport’s judging from humans to robots. However, the hope is that these robot judges will iron out human error and enable a consistent approach.
No matter what we think, technology and sport is now walking hand in hand and is here to stay. We all want fair play, so we have to ensure that those using the system and those who are going to be recipients of any judgements are fully conversant with every aspect. They also need numerous opportunities to try this out prior to it being implemented at a major tournament.
This was not the case in my opinion during the Women’s World Cup this summer in France.
I think it is fair to say that it was one of the major talking points, among players, coaches, supporters, media and possibly by official themselves, and not necessarily in a positive manner. Yet no matter how much resistance there is to change, I believe that when the system is fully tested and all involved are completely conversant with it, it will be of major benefit to all.
The women’s national team kicked off their participation in the Euro 2021 qualifiers against Cyprus on Friday with a brilliant 8-0 win as they look to qualify for the finals in England. It is imperative we ensure that everyone involved is in possession of full-working knowledge for this showpiece event. With a final due to be played at Wembley Stadium we need to know that the public’s attention is on the quality of play, not disputes with technology.
England made a strong bid to host the tournament, their first since 2005, and this means automatic qualification for them. Scotland should not be the poor cousin here and the right investment of funds into all areas of the game and positive restructure talks, which are due to take place in September, will be paramount to preparing our players for their next big challenge.
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