AI, DIGITAL & SPORTS TECH
AN NSC26 STREAM
- 1-2 July 2026
- Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
Revolutionising Participation, Engagement and Efficiency in Community Sport
The AI, Digital & Sports Tech stream at the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention 2026 explores the next generation of technology transforming sport, recreation, and play. From AI-powered platforms and machine learning tools to immersive fan experiences and data-driven decision making, this stream highlights how innovation is reshaping the way we engage participants, manage operations, and deliver impact.
As community sport, schools, and leisure services embrace tools once reserved for elite teams, technology is unlocking smarter operations, deeper connections, and greater inclusivity. This stream features a mix of future-focused keynotes, expert panels, hands-on workshops, and real-world case studies, giving sector leaders the insight and confidence to adopt digital solutions that will define the next era of sport.
See 2025’s stream sessions below:
Impact Keynote 5: Embracing Technology to Impact Sport
Technology is no longer optional – it’s essential. This keynote explores how AI, machine learning, and digital innovation are reshaping how clubs operate and engage.
Chair: Phil Hamdorf, CEO, Australian Sporting Alliance for People with a Disability
Speakers:
- Dawid Naude, CEO, Pathfindr.ai
- Andrew Walton, Managing Director, Sports Tech World Series
Impact Panel 5: Embracing AI to Be More Inclusive
This panel will explore how to adapt commercial technology for grassroots sport and use digital solutions to enhance inclusivity, especially for young people and underrepresented groups.
Speakers:
- Martin Schlegel, Chair, ASTN
- Yasmin London, Global Online Safety Advisor & Brand Director, Qoria
- Brent Richardson, CEO, Enrichd Group
Workshop 5.1: Data-Driven Growth and Participation Strategies
Explore how clubs and associations can leverage data to better understand and engage participants and fans. From AI-powered insights to targeted communications, this session is hands-on and highly practical.
Speakers:
- Alex Mednis, CEO, revolutioniseSPORT by SportsGrid
- Brent Richardson, CEO, Enrichd Group
Case Study Workshop 5.2: Digital Strategies to Drive Participation Growth
Real-world examples of digital innovation in action – discover how gamification, digital outreach, and fan-centric strategies are unlocking new markets and increasing grassroots engagement.
Speakers:
- Leanne Bats, Head of Digital & Innovation, Sport Waikato
- James Ellender, Head of Fandom, AFL NSW & QLD
PitchFEST 5: Accessible Tech for Athletes and Sports Clubs
A fast-paced showcase of accessible, scalable technologies that help clubs and athletes unlock revenue, improve engagement, and build their brand.
Chair: Alex Mednis, CEO, SportsGrid
Presenters:
- Brett Gillet, Founder & Director, ClubDucks
- Vickie Saunders, Founder, The Athlete Brand Builders
- Luke Santamaria, CEO & Co-Founder, PlaySpark
- Tenzing Tsewang, Marketing Manager Aus/NZ, Veo Technologies
- Mat Graham, Founder & CEO, inSquare Fit
Challenge & Solutions 5.4: Top AI, Digital & Sports Tech Opportunities for 2025
From being overwhelmed to optimised – how sport can use AI to improve communications, accessibility, and organisational performance.
Chair: Isaak Dury, CEO & Founder, TidyHQ
Speakers:
- Alison Lyons, CEO, Hockey Queensland (Improving Communications)
- Jodie Harlow, Community Development Team Leader, Basketball Victoria (Inclusive Sport for People with Disability)
Meet the Innovators at the NSC Expo
The 2025 NSC Expo features the largest showcase of AI, digital, and sports tech solutions ever assembled for community sport in Australia. Whether you’re looking to streamline admin, increase participation, improve safety, or amplify athlete and fan engagement, the Expo offers live demonstrations and direct access to industry leaders.
- PlayerFan.TV
- eSafety Commissioner
- etrainu
- The Athlete Brand Builders
- Xplor Technologies
- revolutioniseSPORT
- Row Nation
- CoachMate
- Clubland Australia
- Tiny Mobile Robots
- Veo Technologies
- 360Player
These innovators provide real-world solutions for clubs, schools, and associations to thrive in the digital age – empowering sport to be more inclusive, efficient, and connected than ever before.
