Sydney Swans fans will experience football at the SCG like never before, following the announcement that the SCG Trust will invest in a multi-million dollar connectivity plan beginning in 2014.

The plan, which will transform the SCG into a world-class interactive venue, will see WiFi and IPTV technology introduced at the ground, which will be available for use by thousands of fans each match-day.

The network will provide high speed WiFi connectivity, which allows fans to view real-time, high definition IPTV and mobile video on their smartphones or tablets while at the game and will also allow fans to share live Swans action over social media from anywhere in the ground.

The plan will simplify ticketing, assist fans in navigating the stadium and will also allow fans to order food, drinks and merchandise from the comfort of their seat via their smartphone.

SCG Trust Chief Executive Jamie Barkley said the connectivity plan will provide fans with an interactive viewing experience like no other in Australia.

“Sports and entertainment venues the world over are having to compete with the at-home experience. Our network is about creating the living room experience live at the SCG, and with full technology services available in the palm of your hand,” he said.

“We want fans able to watch replays, view HD footage and engage in all forms of social media while having the luxury of ordering food, drinks and merchandise from the comfort of their seat.”

The network will be launched in the new MA Noble, Bradman and Messengers stands currently under construction at the northern end of the SCG during next year’s Ashes cricket Test, which commences on January 3.

The network will then be progressively rolled out to include all areas of the SCG, Allianz Stadium and Sports Central Plaza over the next five years.

The connected stadium solution, to be built with innovative technology from Cisco and implemented by Telstra, will have the flexibility to integrate with the latest generation of technology, the demands of fans and the growing number of mobile devices

A further 420 plasma TV screens will also be installed in the news Stands in early 2014, taking the total number of TV screens at the SCG to 900.

The latest technology advances are in-line with some of the leading sporting club stadiums in the world, including the home grounds of the New England Patriots, San Francisco Giants, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Liverpool.

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