Spectator sports are at a turning point. Digital transformation and innovation management are no longer topics for the future, but rather they are the conversation sports management and consulting firms must have now. Today, sports must adapt to an emerging younger generation which has different interests, more varied leisure activities, and different perceptions and values than previous generations. But while consulting firms often try to transfer their existing methods from other industries to spectator sports, they fall short in reaching their intended audience. Their approaches aren't tailored to the sport industry's specific needs.



This is exactly where Power Play comes in. This book offers a framework specifically designed for sports innovation for sport management. It is the first of its kind, combining sporting know-how with technological expertise aimed at club executives and managers, IT managers and developers, fan representatives, consultants and service providers in the sports sector, as well as media and marketing experts.



Power Play aims to inspire the reader to develop long-term perspectives in a short-lived business and to approach sports marketing from new and varied perspectives. It demonstrates that innovation management is a simple process that can be approached without fearing the complexity of modern technologies. At the same time, the reader will learn how innovations can not only promote growth and revenue, but can also help to better manage risks and, above all, better appeal to future sports fans.



Nils Sterenborg and Thomas Lutz are internationally recognized experts on the future of spectator sports. They have now translated their broad range of experience into new, structured applied knowledge. They are supported by leading industry experts such as Oliver Wolfs, CEO of WEHAVE.IO (data-driven sponsor analysis); Saskia Wichert, marketing expert and former CEO of Türkiyemspor Berlin (diversity in sport); Emmanuel Wandji Tchatat, ZEAM (social media and Gen Z in sport); Alexander Altenhofen, DFL Digital Sports (AI-supported personalization and fan analysis); Dr. Kristina Stroedter, former Nike director and former CEO of TEAMSPORTS.AI; Jan Mikes and Anne Mich, founders of agenda N (sustainability in sport); Moritz Mücke, DYN Media (AI-supported highlight generation); and Timo Schubert, EHC Red Bull München & SAP Garden (smart venues).



Saskia Wichert is a former soccer club manager, sports consultant, and sports marketing professional. She has led teams and advised organizations worldwide, fostering growth, inclusivity, and opportunity in sport. As a speaker, she is sharing her experience in leadership, breaking barriers, and empowering the next generation of athletes and sports professionals.