AIS partner in microtechnology research in athlete monitoring
26 September 2001
The Director of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), Michael Scott, today formally signed an agreement that will see the nation's premier elite sports training institute, the AIS, become a partner in the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for MicroTechnology.
The CRC for MicroTechnology partnership will see the AIS assisting in the development of micro-sensors. Nowhere are the potential applications for microtechnology in sport more exciting than in athlete monitoring in-the-field.
AIS Director, Michael Scott said he was excited about what the partnership may mean for not only AIS but all Australian elite athletes in the future.
"Using microtechnology, AIS race walker and recent Goodwill Games gold medallist, Nathan Deakes for example, could be monitored by a tiny micro-sensor in his shoes, the results of which could be available to analyse immediately."
"Initially, the work will be applied to team sports, track and field and rowing. The group has set milestones though to ensure the technology will be ready to be exploited by Australian athletes in the lead up to the Athens Olympic Games," said Mr Scott.
CEO of the CRC for MicroTechnology, Clive Davenport is enthusiastic about the inclusion of the AIS. "We are delighted that the AIS has agreed to join the CRC. The skills and international reputation of the AIS will help the CRC develop practical devices that will benefit Australian athletes, and open new opportunities for Australian industry," said Mr Davenport.
Goodwill Games gold medallist, Nathan Deakes and head coach of the AIS Track and Field program, Chris Nunn will be available for comment.
AIS rower and recent World Championship double gold medallist, Jane Robinson will demonstrate current monitoring methods and equipment.
The launch and signing will be in held in the AIS biomechanics dome at 1pm on Wednesday 26 September at the AIS Sports Science Sports Medicine facility.
