Manchester-based virtual reality start-up has expanded its footprint into the United States after securing a significant investment from a US venture firm.
The virtual reality training and cognitive development tool for elite football, which is already in use at football clubs across the Premier League and top European leagues, builds a comprehensive picture of player capabilities through millions of natural movement data points.
To capitalise on this investment, the company has opened a new office in New York. This strategic move aims to enhance its presence and operations within the rapidly growing US Soccer market. The new platform, developed as part of the investment deal, is designed to identify and improve football talent. It features four key drills that simulate real game pressure in challenging environments, providing coaches with valuable insights into players’ abilities to cope with pressure and make in-game decisions.
Adam Dickinson, the development director, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with their investment partner, emphasising the benefits of having an established base and employees in the USA. He stated, “We’re excited about the opportunities working with an investment partner brings. Not only will we now have an established base and employees in the USA, but we will also benefit from the knowledge and contacts their high-tech team bring with them.”
Brendan O’Shea, COO of the investment firm, noted their long-standing interest in the company and the decision to solidify the partnership due to the significant growth potential in the sector. He remarked, “We have been impressed since the very first time we saw them 10 months ago, and after meeting the team behind the product, we felt compelled to make a more solid partnership and investment. We believe this space is poised for very significant growth.” With 22 million registered soccer players in the US and four million registered with the US Soccer Federation, the opportunities are vast.
The substantial investment and the establishment of a new office in New York signify a pivotal moment for the virtual reality start-up, positioning it for sustained growth and innovation in the elite sport sector.