Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN) has shaken up its executive leadership team with founder James Demetriou stepping into the background after more than a decade of advocating for local sports technology
Demetriou, ASTN Chairman and former player and board member of Essendon Bombers, will hold the role of Executive Director of Commercialization and Partnerships for the next three years.
Board member Dr. Martin Schlegel will become chairman alongside Jasmine Lim as deputy chairman.
Founded in Geelong in 2012, ASTN became one of the first coordinated sports tech ecosystems, growing the local sector by more than 170% to nearly $3.1 billion in annual revenue.
The company is a leader in the commercialization, development and promotion of Australian-inspired sports technologies, with more than 500 organizations in its national network, from stadiums to performance, fan engagement, data, equipment and smart apparel.
Ten years ago, Demetriou decided to act as he witnessed the lack of support and recognition from Australian sports technologists, scientists, academics and entrepreneurs.
“Those early pioneering companies Catapult, Champion Data and Fusion Sports were not recognized and I knew that had to change, especially if Australia wanted to remain a world leader in sport,” he said.
dr. Schlegel has been with ASTN for seven years and has served as program lead for ASTN’s Australian Sports Innovation Center of Excellence (ASICE), helping to embed new and existing programs into the center.
“I am honored to assume the role of Chairman, help grow what James Demetriou started and continue his legacy. Demetriou has had a significant impact on the Australian sports technology sector and we are grateful for his dedication to ASTN over the past 10 years,” he said.
“Australia’s sports technology industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, but we have only just started expanding our national presence. ASTN will continue to work closely with governments, businesses and industry groups to strengthen the reach, international reputation and reputation of Australia’s sportstech startup ecosystem.”