CAA Football Teams Adopt Helmet Communication Technology

The Coastal Athletic Association has introduced helmet communication technology to its teams, enabling coaches to communicate directly with players on the field. This innovation follows the Football Bowl Subdivision's implementation last season and the National Football League's use of electronic play calling since 1994. The University of Maine, a CAA member, has already utilized this technology this season. The designated players wear helmets with built-in audio receivers and speakers, allowing coaches to provide live updates to the team.

Key Takeaways:

• The CAA has allowed its teams to use helmet communication technology, enabling coaches to communicate with designated players on the field.
• The designated players wear helmets with built-in audio receivers and speakers, allowing coaches to provide live updates to the team.
• The system is one-way, with players unable to talk back to coaches.
• The connection automatically shuts off when the play clock reaches 15 seconds or when the ball is snapped.
• The use of helmet communication technology is optional, and if one team's system is not working, the opponent cannot use theirs.
• The CAA has also expanded its partnership with DVSport, utilizing software for foul reporting, evaluation, and training for game officials.
• The conference has been using tablets on the sidelines for its second season, allowing coaches and players to review in-game video.
• The helmet communication technology and tablet use aim to enhance communication between coaches and players, as well as provide video for in-game adjustments and strengthen the officiating program.

Statistics:

• The National Football League has been using electronic play calling since 1994.
• Football Bowl Subdivision teams were allowed to use helmet receiver technology for the first time last season.
• The University of Maine has already used the helmet communication technology this season.
• The CAA has begun its second season of using tablets on the sidelines for in-game video review.
• 15 seconds: The time connection automatically shuts off when the play clock reaches this or when the ball is snapped.

Sources:

• "For the first time, the Coastal Athletic Association and other Football Championship Subdivision conference teams have been allowed to implement technology that allows coaches to communicate directly with players on the field through the use of wireless receivers in their helmets." (Source: Bangor Daily News)
• "The National Football League has been using electronic play calling since 1994." (Source: Bangor Daily News)
• "The CAA has also begun its second season of using tablets on the sidelines." (Source: Bangor Daily News)
• Press release from the CAA, citing Commissioner Joe D'Antonio.