Performance Technologies Responsible Use in Collegiate Athletics
The increasing use and evolving nature of performance technologies, as well as ongoing discussion by the membership and student-athletes, prompted the NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports to develop Performance Technologies Recommendations: Responsible Use in Collegiate Athletics. The guidance provides evidence- and consensus-based recommendations to member schools on the responsible use of performance technologies in collegiate athletics in the form of foundational statements, recommendation statements and strategy statements.
Understanding Performance Technologies
Performance technologies are devices and tools used to collect biometric and performance-related data. These technologies may include wearable devices, cameras, sensors, mobile apps, software platforms and other systems used to support student-athlete health, safety and performance.
Performance technologies are only one tool schools may use to support student-athlete well-being, and their effectiveness depends on how responsibly they are selected, implemented and managed.
Recommendations for Responsible Use
Responsible use of performance technologies requires balancing innovation with student-athlete well-being. Schools should consider not only the benefits of technology, but also potential unintended impacts related to privacy, mental health, informed consent and data security.