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Bavarian Football Association and zone14 take video analysis to a new level

Bavarian Football Association and zone14 take video analysis to a new level

Im Rahmen der Partnerschaft erhalten BFV-Mitgliedsvereine ein exklusives Vorteilspaket für den Zugang zu KI-gestützter Videoanalyse, Statistiken und professionellen Analysetools.

Imagine a future where every Bavarian football club has access to the same technological capabilities as professional teams—a future in which volunteers are relieved of time-consuming tasks, players can develop more effectively, and new revenue streams emerge. That is precisely the future the sports technology company zone14 is ushering in today as the new official partner of the Bavarian Football Association (BFV). The cooperation has a clear goal: to professionalize grassroots football through simple access to state-of-the-art analysis and marketing tools.

At the core of the solution lies zone14’s fully automated, permanently installed AI camera system. Following the “set-and-forget” principle, the camera is mounted once in an optimal position and from then on automatically records all games and training sessions in 4K quality—reducing staffing needs on match day to almost zero.

From left to right: Simon Schmiderer (Co-CEO, zone14), Andreas Schinko (Managing Director, BFV Service GmbH), and Max Maximov (Founder's Associate, zone14) with the zone14 TWO AI camera – symbol of the new partnership for digital game analysis in Bavarian soccer.

As part of the partnership, zone14 provides BFV clubs with access to three key advantages:

  • Relief for the entire team: Thanks to zone14’s fully automated game recordings, the need for camera operators on match days is eliminated.
  • Sporting professionalization: Every club gains access to high-quality video analyses and performance data—just like the professionals.
  • New sources of income: Easy live streaming and highlightclip creation open up new opportunities for sponsorship and fan engagement.

“We are incredibly proud to be working with such a renowned and forward-thinking association as the BFV,” says Simon Schmiderer, co-founder and CEO of zone14. “Our mission from the very beginning has been to make professional tools accessible to everyone in football. With more than 200 installed systems across Europe, we know exactly where clubs face challenges. This partnership marks a milestone in giving Bavarian clubs access to our complete digital ecosystem—one that eases workloads, supports athletic development, and helps them build sustainable financial foundations.”

Andreas Schinko, Managing Director of BFV Service GmbH, adds: “This partnership is an excellent next step in keeping Bavarian clubs up to date and further developing the sport with the most modern technologies.”

The zone14 ecosystem includes, in addition to automatic recording, an intuitive analysis-platform (REPLAY), a tool for collecting performance data without GPS vests (STATS), and a simple live streaming feature with no paywall.

Currently, intensive research is being conducted on AI-based event detection. Co-founder Simon Schmiderer offers a glimpse into the future of analysis: “The data will be collected not only at the team level but also for individual players. In professional leagues, this is still mostly done manually. Our research enables us to provide all clubs—and players in particular—with even more detailed insights in the future.”

To reinforce the newly established partnership and send a strong signal for the digital transformation of grassroots football, a support program for Bavarian football has been launched. As part of this initiative, selected Bavarian clubs will receive a comprehensive technology partnership for the upcoming season free of charge. The package includes the complete hardware and software from zone14, along with personal support.

Interested Bavarian clubs can now apply for the support program. All details regarding participation and the application process can be found here..

Contact for queries:
Simon Schmiderer | Co-CEO
Tel: +43 699 19531651
E-Mail: simon@zone14.ai

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Dein Torwart-Playbook: Die besten Übungen & Analysetechniken

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Dein Torwart-Playbook: Die besten Übungen & Analysetechniken

He is the last bastion, the first attacker, often the loneliest, but also the most decisive player on the pitch: the goalkeeper. While club football often focuses on outfield play, specialized goalkeeper training frequently falls short. But the days when it was enough to put a "good catcher" in goal are long gone. The modern goalkeeper is a complex athlete whose abilities extend far beyond just saving shots and who actively shapes the game.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of modern goalkeeper training. We break down the complexity into understandable components, present the best goalkeeper drills with detailed step-by-step instructions, and show how video analysis – especially with specialized tools like a behind-the-goal camera – can revolutionize your coaching.

1. The 4 Pillars of Complete Goalkeeper Training

Holistic training is based on four inseparable pillars that intertwine and should be present in every drill:

  1. Technique: The clean execution of fundamentals (catching, punching, diving, 1-on-1s).
  2. Tactics: Game understanding (positioning, decision-making, coaching the players in front).
  3. Athleticism: The physical requirements (jumping power, speed, agility, reflexes).
  4. Psyche: Mental strength (courage, concentration, dealing with mistakes, presence).

2. The Best Goalkeeper Drills: Explained Step by Step

Here are three practical goalkeeper drills that specifically train these pillars and can be adapted for different age and performance levels.

Drill 1: "The Wall" – Reaction, Technique & Rebound Control

Focus: Technique (hand shape, body position), Athleticism (reaction), Psyche (concentration)

  • Goal of the Drill: To improve reaction speed to shots from close range and the ability to control rebounds.
  • Setup (Step 1):
    • The goalkeeper stands centrally in the goal.
    • The coach is positioned approx. 6-8 meters in front of the goal with several balls.
    • Two small cones are placed approx. 2 meters to the left and right of the goalkeeper.
  • Execution (Step 2):
    • The coach shoots 5-8 balls in quick succession, medium-height and hard, towards the goalkeeper's body.
    • The goalkeeper does not try to catch the balls but uses a clean blocking technique (firm hands, tensed body) to parry them in a controlled manner to the outside, behind the cones.
    • The last ball of the series is shot low next to the goalkeeper, requiring them to dive and secure the ball.
  • Coaching Points & Variations:
    • Ensure the goalkeeper maintains a stable, slightly forward-leaning body position.
    • The hands should form a "scoop" to direct the ball down and to the side.
    • Variation (harder): A second player tries to score from the rebounds, increasing the pressure.
  •  
Drill 2: "Decision in the Box" – Tactics for Crosses

Focus: Tactics (decision-making, commanding the area), Technique (catching/punching), Psyche (communication, courage)

  • Goal of the Drill: To train the goalkeeper's timing and decision-making on whether to come off their line for a cross or to stay.
  • Setup (Step 1):
    • The goalkeeper is in the goal.
    • Two players (or coaches) are positioned as crossers on the wings, roughly level with the penalty area.
    • One or two attackers are positioned inside the penalty area.
  • Execution (Step 2):
    • The crossers alternate delivering different types of crosses into the box (high looping ball, driven cross, low ball to the six-yard box).
    • For each cross, the goalkeeper must make a clear decision: "Am I coming?" or "Am I staying?".
    • They must communicate their decision loudly and clearly (e.g., "Keeper's!" or "Away!").
    • If they come out, they must catch the ball at its highest point or punch it away decisively.
  • Coaching Points & Variations:
    • The decision depends on the trajectory of the ball, the position of the opponents, and the keeper's own position.
    • Encourage the goalkeeper to see the six-yard box as their "fortress."
    • Variation (harder): Add a defender to train the communication between the goalkeeper and the defense.
Drill 3: "The Playmaker in Goal" – Build-up Play Under Pressure

Focus: Tactics (game intelligence, press resistance), Technique (passing), Psyche (composure on the ball)

  • Goal of the Drill: To improve the goalkeeper's ability to make the right decision in build-up play when under pressure from an opponent.
  • Setup (Step 1):
    • The goalkeeper is in the goal.
    • Two teammates are positioned as available center-backs or full-backs.
    • An opponent starts at the halfway line.
  • Execution (Step 2):
    • The coach plays a back-pass to the goalkeeper.
    • At that moment, the opponent starts their run, approaching the goalkeeper in an arc to cut off one passing option.
    • The goalkeeper must quickly assess the situation and find the best solution: the safe pass to the free defender, beating the opponent with a body feint, or playing a long, accurate ball forward.
  • Coaching Points & Variations:
    • The goalkeeper's first look should always be forward.
    • Encourage the goalkeeper to find brave but safe solutions.
    • Variation (harder): Add a second opponent to further increase the pressure.

3. The Game-Changer: Video Analysis in Goalkeeper Training

The complex and lightning-fast movements of a goalkeeper are nearly impossible to assess objectively from the sideline. Milliseconds and centimeters determine success or failure. This is where video analysis is the key to the truth. Imagine being able to show your goalkeeper in slow motion why their hand shape in the "Wall" drill wasn't optimal, or to analyze frame-by-frame whether their decision in "Decision in the Box" was the right one.

The Power of the Right Perspective: The Behind-the-Goal Camera

The normal tactical recording from the side is good, but for detailed goalkeeper training, the perspective from behind the goal is pure gold. A behind-the-goal camera allows you to see things that would otherwise remain hidden:

  • Precise Positioning: Is the goalkeeper truly central to the ball's position? How are they narrowing the angles?
  • Organization on Set Pieces: How are they directing their wall? How do they position themselves for corners?
  • Evaluation of Distribution: What passing lanes do they see (or miss) during build-up play?

4. Insights from the Pros: The zone14 Analysis Workflow

Even at the highest level, automation and the right perspective are crucial. The importance of this is demonstrated in our case study with the SK Rapid Academy. There, based on the specific requirements of the professional coaches, a dedicated behind-the-goal camera from zone14 was designed to provide exactly these decisive insights.

A professional analysis workflow with zone14 REPLAY looks like this:

  1. Automatic Recording: The zone14 TWO main camera and the behind-the-goal camera automatically record the training session.
  2. Targeted Tagging: The goalkeeper coach marks all relevant scenes from the drills or game in REPLAY.
  3. Analysis with Drawing Tools: In the post-session review, the runs, positions, and passing options are visualized using the drawing tools in the behind-the-goal perspective.
  4. Individual Playlists: The goalkeeper receives a short playlist with their most important scenes to learn from for the next training session.

From Video back to the Pitch: The Analysis-Training-Cycle

The best analysis is useless if it doesn't flow into the next training session. Don't just show your goalkeeper the video scene; recreate the exact game situation from the "Playmaker in Goal" drill in training. Let them play through the situation again, but this time with the knowledge gained from the video analysis. Record this attempt as well. This direct before-and-after comparison is the fastest and most motivating way to make learning progress visible.

And what about the field players? To objectively evaluate the physical performance of your field players, zone14 STATS tracks valuable performance data such as running distances and sprints directly from the video—without the need for GPS vests.

Conclusion: The Complete Goalkeeper Starts with Complete Training

Modern goalkeeper training is a complex discipline that combines technique, tactics, athleticism, and psyche. The drills presented here are an excellent foundation, but only objective and detailed analysis enables targeted and rapid development. Video analysis, especially from the invaluable perspective of a behind-the-goal camera, is no longer a luxury but a crucial tool for unlocking a goalkeeper's full potential.

Solutions like those from zone14 make these professional methods accessible to every club today and help you make the decisive man between the posts even stronger.

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Efficiency boost in the talent factory: How SK Rapid Academy optimizes its analysis with zone14

Rapid x zone14

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Efficiency boost in the talent factory: How SK Rapid Academy optimizes its analysis with zone14

How the Austrian record champions are freeing up valuable analyst resources and improving the quality of talent development by automating video recording.

The SK Rapid youth academy is one of Austria's most renowned talent factories, known for developing national players such as Leopold Querfeld, Niklas Hedl, and, more recently, Nikolaus Wurmbrand. Professional video analysis is an essential part of the development process for shaping such top talents.

But even at this elite level, a fundamental operational hurdle was encountered that many clubs are familiar with: analysts, whose valuable time should actually be spent on tactical evaluation, were often busy operating a camera. This case study shows how SK Rapid eliminated this inefficient process, improved the quality of its recordings, and professionalized its analysis workflow in the long term through the strategic implementation of the permanently installed zone14 TWO AI camera.

The challenge: Valuable analyst time on the sidelines

Mobile camera systems were initially used on the training grounds of the academy and Rapid II. To gain insight into the daily work, we spoke with Maximilian Escher, analyst at Rapid II. He clearly describes the operational hurdles prior to the implementation of zone14:

“We wasted too much time as cameramen,” he says. “When we wanted to film a unit, someone always had to set up the equipment, control the recording, and stay in place for the entire duration. We then lacked those 1-2 hours per training session for the actual content analysis.”

The main challenges were:

  • Inefficient use of resources: Highly qualified analysts were tied up with operational tasks instead of focusing on their core competence—analysis.
  • High hurdle for filming: The effort involved meant that filming was less frequent than would have been desirable from a sporting perspective.
  • Inconsistent perspectives: Mobile solutions inevitably led to slight variations in camera position and movement, which made comparison difficult.

The goal was clear: A “set-and-forget” solution was needed that would radically simplify the recording process, reduce the workload for analysts, and deliver uncompromising, reliable video quality.

The solution: The permanently installed, tactical AI camera from zone14

A customized solution was developed in close collaboration with SK Rapid. Several permanently installed zone14 TWO AI cameras were mounted at optimal, elevated positions on the training grounds.

  • Recording at the touch of a button: Filming training sessions has never been easier. Coaches can simply plan each session in advance or start it spontaneously via the app. The camera starts and stops recording fully automatically, without anyone having to be on site or act as a cameraman.
  • Superior tactical perspective: The most important point for Rapid's analysts is the optimal, high camera position and intelligent camera work. Unlike simple systems that stubbornly follow the ball, zone14's AI keeps an eye on the surrounding players and provides a tactical perspective. This is essential for analyzing formations, distances, and behavior without the ball, and is far superior to a camera that focuses solely on the ball. The fixed installation guarantees exactly the same perfect perspective for every shot.
  • Specialized behind-the-goal camera: Based on Rapid's specific requirements, a dedicated behind-the-goal camera was designed to provide invaluable insights into goalkeeper behavior, organization during set pieces, and movements in the box.
  •  
zone14 at Rapid

The new workflow: Maximum efficiency for the highest demands

The analysis workflow at Rapid II has been significantly improved by zone14:

  1. Recording: Training sessions are recorded fully automatically by zone14 cameras in 4K.
  2. Viewing & exporting: Analysts can concentrate fully on their core tasks. They access high-quality material on the zone14 platform, view it, and export the high-resolution video files so they can then work with them in other software.
  3. Final analysis: The final, detailed evaluation takes place in the familiar professional tool, based on perfect and absolutely consistent source material.
“We wasted too much time as cameramen,” he says. “When we wanted to film a unit, someone always had to set up the equipment, control the recording, and stay in place for the entire duration. We then lacked those 1-2 hours per training session for the actual content analysis.”
Maximilian Escher
Analyst - Rapid II

Additional potential: Live analysis directly on the training ground

In addition, the system makes it possible to make the analysis process even more immediate and drastically shorten feedback loops. With zone14's live tagging feature, crucial training scenes can be marked during the session itself. This allows coaches to show a player the scene they just recorded seconds later on a tablet at the edge of the field. This immediacy of action, analysis, and instant correction in the next round is a powerful tool for further accelerating the learning process of talented players.

Conclusion: The perfect symbiosis for professionals and the smart solution for clubs in all leagues.

The partnership between SK Rapid and zone14 is a prime example of modern efficiency in football. It proves that even at the highest level, automating standard processes is key to making the most of valuable expert resources.

What does this mean for clubs in all other leagues? The logic is the same, but the benefits are perhaps even more direct. While a professional club like Rapid integrates 4K recordings as a perfect data source into its existing, highly specialized workflow, dedicated clubs get the complete, integrated success package from a single source with zone14.

You not only get professional camera technology, but also the accompanying, easy-to-use analysis system. With zone14 REPLAY, you can analyze tactical patterns like the pros, edit scenes, and annotate them with drawings. However, the real game changer is zone14 STATS: our AI extracts valuable performance data such as running distances, sprint speeds, and heat maps directly from the video image—without the need for expensive and cumbersome GPS vests. This unique combination of tactical video analysis and objective performance data gives you insights that were previously unthinkable in amateur soccer.

It is a scalable solution that proves that the smartest technology is often the one that simplifies everyday life the most—whether in the Bundesliga Academy or in the lower leagues.

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Video Analysis in Football: A Comparison of Camera Systems from Veo, Trace, and zone14

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Video Analysis in Football: A Comparison of Camera Systems from Veo, Trace, and zone14

Which Philosophy Fits Your Club? A Decision-Making Guide Between Mobile Flexibility, Individual Highlight Focus, and Integrated Club Intelligence.

Video analysis has definitively conquered amateur and youth football. The question is no longer if, but how to use it. For clubs wanting to take the next step in their development, choosing the right automatic AI camera system is one of the most important strategic decisions of recent years. The market is full of promises, but the philosophies behind the providers could not be more different.

In this comprehensive comparison, we shed light on three of the most prominent names: Veo, the pioneer of mobile sports cameras; Trace, the specialist in player-centric highlights; and zone14, the architect of a holistic club ecosystem. We dive deep into the DNA of each system to help you find the solution that truly fits the goals, resources, and culture of your club.

The Crucial Questions Every Club Must Ask Itself

Before we compare the providers, we should sharpen the criteria that really matter in the often-hectic daily life of a club:

  1. The Human Factor & Effort: How much does the system tie up the scarce time resources of our volunteers on matchday?
  2. The Analytical Perspective: Does the camera provide a high-quality, tactical analysis of the entire game or just individual actions?
  3. The Data Capture Philosophy: Is the team, the individual player, or the entire game the focus of the technology?
  4. The Digital Ecosystem: Are we just getting a camera, or an integrated platform for analysis, communication, and even club development?

The Providers in Detail: Three Philosophies, Three Solutions

Veo: The Freedom of Mobility

Veo has established itself as a major player in the field of mobile sports recording. Their solution is well-known and used by many clubs.

  • Core Philosophy: Veo's DNA is flexibility. The system, consisting of a camera and a high telescopic mast tripod, is designed to be taken everywhere – to home games, away games, and training camps.
  • Practical Implementation & Consequences: The strength of mobility is simultaneously its greatest operational challenge. Every single matchday requires a dedicated volunteer who is responsible for transport, the time-consuming setup and teardown (often 15-20 minutes), and operation. The dependence on this one person is a constant risk in the analysis process. The good tactical perspective gained from the high mast is a clear advantage over ground-level recordings but can be compromised by wind and an uneven setup. Veo's analysis platform offers solid tools for coaches to edit the recorded game.
  • Ideal for: Clubs for whom recording away games is the highest priority and who have reliable personnel resources to handle the recurring effort on every matchday.
Trace: The Specialist for Individual Player Highlights

Trace pursues a different, very player-centric approach that is particularly popular in US youth and college sports. Here, the focus is not on the coach's tactical analysis, but on the experience and development of the individual player.

  • Core Philosophy: The focus of Trace is to automatically provide each player with their personal moments from a game. The system uses, similar to Veo, a mobile AI camera on a tripod that follows the action. The crucial difference lies in the software: after the game, an intelligent AI identifies the actions of each individual player on the field and automatically edits personal highlight clips for each player.
  • Practical Implementation & Consequences: The unbeatable strength of Trace is its automated and personalized content creation. After the game, every player receives their individual scenes (goals, ball touches, important actions) directly on their smartphone – without any further action from the coach. For young players who want to share their best moments on social media or compile them for applications to scouts and colleges, this system is a dream. It promotes self-motivation and makes one's own performance immediately visible.
    The downside of this strong player-centricity is that the overall tactical analysis for the coach often plays a secondary role. The camera perspective and the software are primarily optimized to capture individual actions well, which does not always provide the best total overview for assessing team tactical behavior. So, if the club's primary goal is an in-depth, coach-led analysis of the entire team, other systems might be more suitable. As with any mobile tripod solution, the recurring effort for setup and teardown on matchday remains.
  • Ideal for: Clubs and academies (especially in the youth sector) whose absolute focus is on the automatic creation of individual player clips for social media, scouting, or personal development.
zone14: The Integrated Brain of the Club

zone14 was developed with a clear focus on the reality and strategic needs of European club football at all levels.

  • Core Philosophy: zone14 focuses on maximum reliability, zero effort on home matchdays, and the creation of a holistic, digital ecosystem for the entire club. The motto is "Set-and-Forget."
  • Practical Implementation & Consequences: The zone14 TWO AI camera is permanently installed once and from that moment on is a fixed, always-available part of the club's infrastructure. The effort on matchday is reduced to zero, which completely relieves the volunteers and guarantees a seamless recording of all home games and training sessions. The always-identical, optimal tactical perspective from above is the basis for professional analysis in the panoramic view of zone14 REPLAY.
    However, the true strength lies in the integration: zone14 is not just a camera but a strategic platform. With zone14 STATS, performance data like running distances are extracted directly from the video without sensors, inseparably linking data and tactics. The REPLAY iPhone App also makes the analysis flexible and mobile. Furthermore, the system introduces a live dimension that elevates the matchday itself: All home games can be streamed effortlessly and without a paywall, enabling clubs to reach their fans and create new, attractive sponsorship opportunities. At the same time, coaches can use the REPLAY App to tag live from the sidelines, preparing their halftime analysis in minutes and allowing them to react immediately to the on-field action.
  • Ideal for: Clubs that see their home ground as their fortress and want to rely on uncompromising, professional, and reliable analysis conditions there. It is the solution for clubs that want to relieve their volunteers, professionalize their entire sporting and administrative operations, and grow sustainably through an integrated system of analysis, data, livestreaming, and sponsorship opportunities.
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The Philosophies in Direct Comparison

Let's summarize: When we compare the systems directly, it becomes clear that it's about more than just technical data. It's about fundamentally different approaches.

Veo offers you the freedom to record anywhere but demands the price of constant manual effort. Trace gives every player their personal spotlight but puts team analysis on the back burner. zone14 offers you absolute peace of mind and professionalism at home, with a deeply integrated ecosystem that goes far beyond mere recording. The decision is therefore not a question of "better" or "worse," but a question of priorities.

Conclusion: Which DNA Fits Your Club? A Clear Decision-Making Guide

Choosing the right camera system is a strategic turning point.

  • Profile A: "The Nomad" – Mobility is Everything.
    If your top priority is recording away games and you have reliable and dedicated volunteers to handle the weekly setup and teardown, then Veo is an established choice that gives you the necessary flexibility.
  • Profile B: "The Talent Developer" – The Player is the Focus.
    If your main goal is the automatic creation of individual highlight clips for your youth talents to promote their development and visibility, and tactical team analysis is a lower priority, then Trace could be the right solution for you.
  • Profile C: "The Strategist" – Reliability, Professionalism, and Club Development.
    If, however, your goal is to turn your home ground into a fortress of analysis, to maximally relieve your volunteers, and to implement a holistic system for sporting success, fan engagement, and financial development, then the integrated approach of zone14, designed for reliability and professionalism, is an advanced and sustainable solution.

If your goal is a hassle-free, reliable, and qualitatively superior video analysis that serves as the foundation for sporting success and new revenue streams, there is hardly any way around a permanently installed, intelligent solution.

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The Tripod Dilemma in Amateur Football & How to Solve It

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The Tripod Dilemma in Amateur Football & How to Solve It

Which Camera Solution Truly Fits Your Club's Goals? A Detailed Comparison of Perspective, Effort, and the Potential of a Complete League Solution.

Every dedicated coach and club official in amateur football knows the challenge: to keep up in the modern game, video recordings for game analysis are essential. However, the implementation is often a compromise. Usually, a brave soul—a "cameraman"—is found to stand on the sidelines for 90 minutes. The tripod is a constant companion, and the result is often footage that is valuable for memories but only partially suitable for in-depth tactical football analysis.

But what are the alternatives? Is the classic tripod the only option? What do modern high tripods (masts) really offer? And what revolutionary potential lies in permanently installed, automatic AI cameras, especially when considered not just for a single club, but as a networked solution for an entire league?

This comprehensive guide illuminates the various options for game recording in football. We analyze the pros and cons of each method and provide you with a clear basis for deciding which solution is right for your club.

1. The Classic: The Standard Tripod on the Sideline – Maximum Flexibility with Analytical Compromises

The simple three-legged tripod is the undisputed standard in amateur football. It is the most obvious and, at first glance, the cheapest solution.

  • The Advantages: Low initial cost and high mobility, as it can be taken to every away game.
  • The Reality in Practice: The recording depends on the reliability of a volunteer, which poses a high risk. Far more crucial, however, is the inadequate perspective for serious tactical analysis. From the sideline, formations and distances are nearly impossible to assess. Added to this are inconsistent video quality and a high, recurring effort on matchday.

2. The Evolution: The High Tripod (Telescopic Mast) – An Important Step Up

To solve the perspective problem, high tripods for sports recording have become increasingly popular.

  • The Approach: An extendable telescopic mast raises the camera to an elevated position, significantly improving the overview.
  • The Advantages: A significantly better tactical perspective makes the analysis of formations meaningful for the first time. The system also remains portable.
  • The Remaining Challenges: The high personnel effort for transport, setup, and teardown persists and is often even greater. Additionally, the masts are often susceptible to wind, and battery life remains a critical issue.

3. The Advanced Option: The Permanently Installed, Automatic AI Camera

What if the camera were simply always there? Perfectly positioned, always ready, completely automatic. This is precisely the philosophy behind the permanently installed camera for football pitches. This is precisely the approach that zone14 pursues.

  • The Concept: "Set-and-Forget" – Install and Benefit:
    An intelligent AI camera is installed once in an optimal, elevated, and central position—typically on a floodlight mast. It stays there, permanently connected to power and the network.
  • The Clear Advantages of This Option:
    • Maximum Reliability & Relief for Volunteers: The camera automatically records every scheduled home game. The dependency on personnel on matchday is completely eliminated.
    • The Perfect Perspective for Pro-Level Analysis: The high, central position is the "holy grail" for any top-down game analysis. A panoramic view provides an invaluable tactical overview.
    • Professional & Consistent Video Quality: Modern AI camera systems for football intelligently follow the action and deliver a stable, broadcast-quality feed.
    • Zero Effort on Matchday: No setup, no teardown, no battery charging. Coaches and officials can fully concentrate on the essentials.
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4. The Future, Today: The Networked League Solution – A Game-Changer for Everyone

So far, we have looked at camera systems from the perspective of a single club. But what happens when you expand the potential of permanently installed cameras to an entire league? This creates a revolutionary added value that mobile solutions can never offer.

  • The League Solution Concept:
    Imagine every club in your league equips its main pitch with a permanently installed AI camera from providers like zone14. All cameras are part of a networked system.
  • The Groundbreaking Advantages:
    • EVERY Game is Recorded – Home & Away: The problem of missing footage from away games is completely solved. No matter where you play, a recording in the usual high, professional quality is guaranteed.
    • Seamless Video Exchange for Opponent Analysis: Gone are the days of hoping to somehow get a video of the next opponent. The recordings can be easily and fairly shared between clubs via the platform. Opponent analysis in amateur football is thereby raised to a completely new, professional level.
    • Increased Attractiveness for League Sponsors: An entire league that can livestream every game and produce professional highlights becomes an extremely attractive advertising partner. League-wide sponsorship packages can be created, from which every single club benefits.
    • Fairness and Transparency: The complete documentation of all games can also provide valuable, objective insights into controversial scenes or for the work of the referees.

Such a league solution is the logical next step in the professionalization of amateur football. It creates a win-win-win situation for players, coaches, and the league as a whole.

5. One Recording, Countless Possibilities: The Smart Content Cycle for Your Club

  • For Coaches/Analysts: The raw material for detailed tactical analysis in REPLAY.
  • For Players: Short, individual feedback clips and motivational highlights.
  • For Fans/Community: Spectacular highlight videos for social media and the club website.
  • For Sponsors: Professional livestreams with ad integration and branded highlight clips as a measurable ROI.
  • For the Press/Media: Easy provision of high-quality footage for local newspapers or online portals.

6. More Than Just a Camera: An Honest Cost-Benefit Analysis (ROI)

For club officials, the financial side is crucial. The Return on Investment (ROI) of a video analysis solution must be clear.

  • The Hidden Costs of Mobile Solutions: If one considers the "implicit personnel costs" (what is the time of a volunteer worth?), the wear and tear of equipment, and the opportunity costs (lost sponsorship revenue), the seemingly low price of tripods is quickly put into perspective.
  • The ROI of a Permanent Installation (especially as a League Solution): A permanently installed camera is a strategic investment. The reliability and high quality of the recordings create the foundation for new revenue streams through professional highlight clips and livestreams with sponsor integration. In a league solution, this effect is potentiated. The time saved for volunteers frees up resources. It is an investment in the athletic and financial health of the club.

Conclusion: It's Not About the Tripod – It's About the Right Strategy for Your Club and Your League

The choice of recording method is a strategic decision.

  • The classic tripod remains a flexible entry-level solution with clear compromises in quality and reliability.
  • The high tripod improves the perspective but does not solve the problem of recurring effort.
  • The permanently installed, automatic AI camera is the most advanced option for clubs that value maximum reliability, unsurpassed analysis quality, and relieving their volunteers.

However, the revolutionary potential only unfolds when thinking about a networked league solution. It not only professionalizes the individual club but also elevates the entire league to a new level in terms of analysis, marketing, and sporting fairness. If the goal is continuous, high-quality, and low-effort video analysis in amateur football, there is hardly any way around a permanently installed, intelligent, and networked solution.

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Case study USC Litschau: From relegation candidates to champions in just 12 months

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Case study USC Litschau: From relegation candidates to champions in just 12 months

1. Introduction

Video analysis has long established itself in modern football – not just at the professional level. But how can a single tool transform an amateur club from a relegation candidate into a league champion in just one year? This case study of USC Litschau impressively shows how the strategic implementation of the zone14 camera system not only secured their league status but also triggered a wave of professionalization that culminated in winning the league title. We will highlight the specific measures the club took and the role that smart video analysis played in developing the club athletically, organizationally, and for the entire community.

2. Background

The 2023/24 season was a trying time for USC Litschau. A streak of injuries and a lack of consistency led to a downward spiral to the bottom of the table. Although personnel changes were made during the winter break, the board was clear: to stay in the league, they needed more than just new players. There was a lack of objective analysis tools to address recurring mistakes and a need for modern communication methods to strengthen the connection with fans and supporters during this difficult phase. The decision to purchase the zone14 camera was therefore a strategic answer to two central challenges:

  • Athletic Stagnation: To learn from game situations in a targeted manner in order to improve tactical discipline and individual performance.
  • Lack of Visibility: To easily create high-quality content for social media to engage loyal fans and make the club more attractive to new supporters.

3. Solution: Implementing zone14 at USC Litschau

After a smooth installation of the zone14 camera, the club immediately began to use the REPLAY platform intensively. The key to success was using the features in a targeted way:

  • Tactical Discipline through Visual Feedback: The coaching staff used the analysis to identify recurring errors in transition play and during set pieces. Instead of just verbal criticism, players could now be shown concrete scenes. Their understanding and on-field execution improved visibly in the next game.
  • Individual Development for Every Player: Each player received a personal account and could analyze their own actions. The youth teams, in particular, benefited enormously from being able to watch their games in high quality for the first time and learn from their mistakes.
  • An End to Debates thanks to zone14 STATS: A highlight for the coaching team was the automatic calculation of performance data. Debates about work rate or positional discipline were replaced by objective data and heatmaps, which professionalized training management.
  • Content for the Community: Weekly highlight playlists were created from the game footage and shared on social media channels. This not only increased fan engagement but also created valuable content for presentations to sponsors.

4. Results

  • Phase 1: The Herculean Task of Staying in the League (2023/24)
    The strong sense of unity within the club was the foundation, but the new tools provided the decisive impulse. The weekly video analyses sharpened the team's focus, and the public livestreams and highlights gave the players additional motivation. After a difficult start to the second half of the season, the team fought back, analyzed every match, and finally achieved their major goal in the decisive duel against their direct competitor, Weitra: they secured their place in the league!

  • Phase 2: The March to the Championship Title (2024/25)
    In their anniversary year, the mission was clear: to have nothing to do with relegation. Video analysis was now an integral part of their weekly routine. With an impressive winning streak, USC Litschau confidently secured the autumn championship title. The highlight videos became a regular ritual for the fans, and even contentious scenes could now be settled at the local pub with video evidence – a real gain for the entire football culture in the town.

    Although a setback at the beginning of the second half of the season briefly shook the team, objective analysis helped them quickly get back on track. The climax followed in the derby against Heidenreichstein: a celebrated 3-2 victory that sealed the early championship title in the "1. Klasse Waldviertel" – a development that hardly anyone would have thought possible 12 months earlier.

5. Conclusion

The success story of USC Litschau is the best proof: Modern video analysis is not a luxury for professionals, but a decisive competitive advantage in amateur football. It is a tool that not only improves tactics on the pitch but also professionalizes the entire club and brings it closer together.

The investment in zone14 has paid off for USC Litschau on multiple levels:

  • Athletically: through individual player improvement and targeted tactical adjustments.
  • For the Community: through high-quality content that engages fans and enriches discussions.
  • Economically: through increased reach and attractiveness for sponsors.
“Apart from the great tactical benefits, zone14 allows us to provide our fans with fantastic videos, from short reels of certain game scenes to complete game summaries and live streams. These achieve a wide reach, which makes the offer attractive to our sponsors and provides a significant reason to invest in the club.”
Patrick Volkmann
Coach, USC Litschau

A special highlight, such as the first game of the women's team generating the most online views, shows the enormous potential for the future. USC Litschau is proud to be a partner club of zone14 and proves that with the right unity and the right tools, even in amateur football, extraordinary success stories can be written.

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Football match analysis: Your ultimate guide – From the basics to professional analysis with zone14 REPLAY

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Football match analysis: Your ultimate guide – From the basics to professional analysis with zone14 REPLAY

The final whistle blows. Emotions are running high – the joy of victory, the frustration of defeat. But for dedicated coaches, analysts, and forward-thinking club officials, a crucial part of the work is just beginning: the analysis. It is the key to learning from past performances, identifying tactical patterns, developing players in a targeted way, and preparing optimally for the next opponent. But where do you start? How do you transform 90 minutes of pure chaos into clear, actionable insights?

Many rely on their gut feeling and notes. But a structured, in-depth analysis can make the difference between stagnation and sustainable success. This comprehensive guide takes you step-by-step through the process of a professional game analysis – from basic preparation and the psychological aspects of communication to the use of modern tools like zone14 REPLAY, which make this process easier, faster, and more effective than ever before.

1. Preparation: The First Step to Successful Game Analysis (Before the Game)

Good analysis doesn't start after the final whistle, but before it. A clear set of expectations and targeted questions will help you watch the game with an analytical eye.

  • Define Your Game Idea: What did you want to implement as a team today? What were the tactical instructions? (e.g., high press, fast transitions, a compact defensive unit). Your analysis will always be benchmarked against your own game philosophy.
  • Ask the Right Guiding Questions: Formulate 2-3 central questions you want to observe during the game.
    • Offensively: How well does our build-up play work against the opponent's press? Are we creating scoring chances from the wings?
    • Defensively: How stable is our central defense against long balls? How do we react to fast counter-attacks?
  • Consider the Opponent Analysis: What do you know about the opponent? Do you know their strengths, weaknesses, and key players? This helps you to better contextualize certain situations in the game.

2. Observation: How to Watch a Game with the Eyes of an Analyst (During the Game)

During the game, you are often emotionally involved. Nevertheless, try to maintain an analytical distance and observe systematically.

  • Forget the Ball (Sometimes): Don't just follow the ball; observe the behavior of players without the ball. How do the team units move? Where do open spaces appear? What is the formation like when possession is lost?
  • Take notes manually – the traditional way: Have a notepad or laptop ready. Write down the minute of play and a short keyword for notable scenes (e.g., “12th minute – counterattack opportunity missed,” “28' – poor spacing in midfield,” “55' – good pressing scene RV”). These notes will be invaluable later on for finding the scenes in the video.
  • Live tagging with zone14 – The modern, faster alternative: Instead of using pen and paper, you can revolutionize this process with modern systems such as zone14. With your laptop, tablet, or simply on your smartphone with the REPLAY App, you can mark important moments during the game with predefined or custom tags. Just click on “Goal opportunity,” “Bad pass,” or “Good defensive action,” and the scene will be automatically with the exact time stamp for later analysis. This not only saves time, but is also much more accurate than any manual note.
  • The limits of live observation: Be aware that it is impossible to capture everything live. You are stressed, distracted, and cannot rewind a scene. The real, in-depth analysis always takes place after the game.

3. The Post-Match Debrief: Conducting the Actual Game Analysis (After the Game)

Now the real work begins. With the video footage in front of you, you can analyze the game objectively and at your own pace.

  • Step 1: The "Cool-Down" & First Viewing
    Never analyze right after the game when emotions are still high. Watch the entire game video once without interruption to get a feel for the overall flow.
  • Step 2: Structuring the Game (Tagging & Clipping)
    Now you begin to break the game down into relevant scenes. This process is called tagging or clipping. Watch your video a second time and create short clips of all the moments you noted earlier or that stand out to you now. Categorize these scenes to maintain an overview. Typical categories are:
    • Own Offense: Build-up play, scoring chances, counter-attacks, wing play
    • Own Defense: Pressing behavior, defending against counters, tackling behavior
    • Transition Moments: From defense to offense and vice versa
    • Set Pieces: Own and opponent's corners, free kicks, throw-ins
    • Individual Actions: Special performances or mistakes by individual players
  • Step 3: The "Deep Dive" – Detailed Analysis of the Scenes
    Now, go through your created clips and analyze them in detail. For each scene, ask the "What-Why-How" questions:
    • What happened? (e.g., We conceded a goal from a corner.)
    • Why did it happen? (e.g., The marking in the penalty area was off, player X lost sight of his opponent.)
    • How can we do better in the future? (e.g., Practice clear assignments, improve communication on set pieces.)
  • Step 4: Drawing Conclusions and Deriving Actionable Recommendations
    At the end of your analysis, you shouldn't have 50 different findings, but 2-3 clear key points that are most important for your team's development. These could be, for example: "We need to improve our transition play after winning the ball" or "Our compactness in central midfield is a weakness."

4. The Game-Changer: How zone14 REPLAY Revolutionizes Your Analysis Workflow

The process described above is effective, but when done manually, it is extremely time-consuming. This is exactly where modern tools like zone14 REPLAY come in, taking your football tactical analysis to a new level.

  • Automatic Recording & Immediate Availability: The biggest hurdle – getting the video footage – is eliminated. The zone14 TWO camera automatically records your games in high quality. Shortly after the game, the material is available to you on the zone14 REPLAY platform.
  • Efficient Tagging & Clipping: Instead of tediously writing down timestamps, you can mark, cut, and organize scenes into playlists in REPLAY with just a few clicks. 
  • Professional Drawing Tools: You don't have to be a graphic designer. With the intuitive drawing tools in REPLAY, you can visualize running paths with arrows, mark players with circles, or highlight open spaces with zone tools. This makes your instructions immediately understandable for every player.
  • The Panoramic View for a Tactical Overview: One of the most powerful features! Switch from the tracking camera view to the full panoramic view of the entire pitch. This allows you to see the movements and distances of all players and analyze tactical formations and shifts like never before.
  • The Fusion of Tactics and Physics with zone14 STATS: Imagine not only seeing your full-back's wrong run but also that he ran 2 km less in this game than usual. With zone14 STATS , you get these physical performance data (running distance, sprints, heatmaps) directly from the video, without GPS vests. This combination of tactical observation and objective data gives you a complete picture of player performance.
  • Easy Sharing & Collaboration: Share your finished analyses, playlists, or individual clips with comments directly with your coaching team or individual players. Everyone is on the same page, and the feedback gets exactly where it needs to go.

So, zone14 REPLAY doesn't do the thinking for you, but it automates the time-consuming processes and gives you powerful tools so you can focus on what matters most: the substantive analysis and the improvement of your team. Here you can find out, how to get started with video analysis in your club.

5. More Than Just the Team: The Analysis of the Individual Player

Video analysis is a powerful tool for individual player development. Use its capabilities to focus specifically on individual players:

  • Create Individual Playlists: Compile a short "highlight reel" for each player with their best actions to boost their confidence. At the same time, you can create a "learning reel" with 2-3 scenes worthy of improvement.
  • Conduct Constructive Development Talks: These individual clips are the perfect basis for a one-on-one conversation. The player sees objectively what is meant and can understand the instructions much better. With zone14 REPLAY, you can filter and compile such playlists with just a few clicks.

6. Between Motivation and Criticism: The Right Tone in the Video Debrief

A good analysis is one thing, communicating it correctly is another. A poorly conducted video session can do more harm than good. Consider the following psychological aspects:

  • Create a Positive Learning Atmosphere: Make it clear that it's about collective improvement, not about calling out mistakes.
  • Use the "Sandwich Method": Start with a positive scene (praise), then show a learning-intensive scene (constructive criticism), and conclude with something positive again.
  • Avoid Public Shaming: Discuss general tactical errors with the group. Very individual or repeated mistakes of a single player should rather be discussed in a one-on-one conversation. The sharing functions of modern tools allow for discreet communication here.
  • Ask Questions Instead of Just Lecturing: Actively involve the players. "What could you have done differently in this situation?" "What options do you see here?" This promotes game understanding and personal responsibility.

7. The Perfect Video Session: 7 Tips for an Effective Presentation

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  1. Keep it short: A video session should never last longer than 15-20 minutes. The players' attention span is limited.
  2. Focus on 2-3 topics: Choose the most important findings from your analysis. Don't try to address everything.
  3. Positive scenes first: Start with a successful action to get the team in a positive mood and capture their attention.
  4. Show solutions: Don't just show the mistake; also present a scene (perhaps from the same game) where the situation was solved correctly.
  5. Be prepared: Make sure the technology (projector, laptop, screen) is working properly and your clips run smoothly.
  6. Conclude with a clear message: At the end, summarize the main take-away message that the team should take into the next training session or game.

8. Why an Investment in Video Analysis Also Pays Off Financially

Implementing a professional video analysis system like zone14 is not only a sporting decision but also a strategic one for the entire club. The Return on Investment (ROI) is evident on multiple levels:

  • Better Player Development: Players who can develop optimally within their own club reduce the need to sign expensive external newcomers.
  • Increased Attractiveness for Sponsors: Professionally created highlight clips and the possibility of livestreaming are highly attractive advertising spaces. They allow you to offer your sponsors modern and measurable benefits, which strengthens your negotiating position.
  • Retention and Motivation of Volunteers: When you provide your dedicated, often volunteer, coaches with modern tools that make their work easier and better, it increases their satisfaction and long-term commitment to the club.

Conclusion: Game Analysis is the Cycle of Success

Structured game analysis is not rocket science, but rather the crucial process that transforms gut feelings into knowledge and assumptions into facts. It is the key to learning from every performance and laying the foundation for the continuous development of your team.

In the past, this process was often time-consuming and complex. Today, modern solutions such as zone14 REPLAY make a professional analysis workflow accessible to every club. They automate the tedious steps and provide you with powerful tools to efficiently break down games, clearly visualize insights, and easily share them with your team.

By systematically preparing and conducting your analyses and transferring the results into training, you close the cycle of success. Use these opportunities to give your team, your players, and yourself the decisive advantage.

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A comparison of statistics tools in soccer: Catapult, zone14, and others put to the test

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A comparison of statistics tools in soccer: Catapult, zone14, and others put to the test

“We just weren’t aggressive enough today.”
“We lacked the willingness to run.”
“The decisive pass didn’t come.”

If you're involved in soccer—whether as a coach, player, analyst, or club official—you’ve probably heard these phrases countless times. For years, this was the foundation of match analysis: a coach’s intuition, a trained eye, and gut feeling.

And while that instinct will always play a role, modern football has evolved. Massively.

Today, performance data and match statistics are not a luxury—they’re essential for training management, tactical planning, and long-term player development. They turn assumptions into facts and help coaches make more objective decisions—whether it's selecting a starting eleven, planning recovery, or preparing for match day.

How do clubs access performance data?

In professional leagues like the Bundesliga, GPS vests and performance science teams have long been standard. But for most amateur clubs, these tools seemed far out of reach—until recently. Thanks to recent technological advances, the game is changing even at the grassroots level.

What do GPS trackers actually measure?

What looks like a tight-fitting vest is actually a powerful device. Inside is a GPS tracker that collects a wide range of physical performance data in real time.

Examples?

  • How far has a player run? And not just in total, but also broken down: how many meters in sprints, how many in jogging or walking?
  • How fast was it? What was its top speed?
  • How often did he accelerate explosively or brake abruptly?
  • Where exactly did he move on the pitch? So-called Heatmaps show in which zones a player was active.
  • How high was the total load? A special value such as “player load” summarizes load, intensity, and movement effort in a single number.

All this is provided by GPS trackers from suppliers such as Catapult, the market leader in professional sports. And yes: for fitness trainers and performance diagnosticians at the highest level, this data is pure gold.

They help to precisely control the load on each player, prevent injuries, adjust training intensity individually, and ensure that everyone is at 100% on game day.

Why are such systems rarely seen in amateur football?

As exciting as this technology is, it has two major drawbacks for us in the amateur and semi-professional sector.

Firstly: the price.
The cost of equipping an entire team with GPS trackers and the corresponding vests is enormous. And that's just the beginning: there are also regular license fees for the software, server access, updates—in most cases, this exceeds the budget of any club.

Secondly: the effort involved.
Before each training session, vests must be handed out, trackers assigned and charged. Then everything has to be collected again, data read out, assigned to players and evaluated. Anyone who has ever done this knows that it's not something you can do quickly on the side – especially not as a volunteer.

But from a trainer's perspective, the biggest disadvantage is something else entirely – namely, a conceptual one:

GPS tracking does not provide answers to tactical questions.

A tracker shows you that your full-back has run 11 kilometers. But it doesn't tell you why.

Was his movement tactically smart in order to create space? Or did he run back and forth aimlessly because he was in the wrong position beforehand?

He did 36 sprints – okay. But:
Was that because he anticipated correctly? Or because he constantly had to iron out mistakes?

These questions remain unanswered. The bare figures do not help us here.

The modern alternative: AI-based video analysis – When the camera thinks for itself

This is precisely where the real revolution begins—and it affects not only the professionals, but above all of us amateurs.

Instead of relying on expensive devices worn on the body, modern systems use artificial intelligence (AI) to extract performance data directly from video footage. One or more cameras film the game, and smart software automatically analyzes what is happening on the field.

This has two huge advantages:

  1. The logistical effort is reduced to a minimum. No vests. No trackers. No reading out.
  2. The performance data is directly linked to the game. You don't just see that a player has run 10.5 km – you see where, when, and why.

Whether the run was tactically sound or completely pointless—you can check that out directly in the video. And that's exactly what makes the difference.

A look inside the toolbox: zone14 and other alternatives at a glance

The market for analysis tools is changing. Today, there are various systems that rely on video data and/or performance data—but with very different approaches and philosophies. To find the right solution for your club, it's worth taking a look at the toolbox:

Catapult – The specialist for pure performance data

If you are a professional team that wants to control the physical strain on your players down to the smallest detail, then Catapult is the tool for you. Data is collected via GPS vests, and the performance data is extremely accurate—but the tactical context is completely missing. What's more, the price is high and the effort involved is considerable.

Hudl – The digital tactics board

Hudl is ideal if you want to share, comment on, and analyze tactical scenes. You can upload your video footage, edit scenes, add drawings, and share them directly with your players. Hudl is strong in communication and visual feedback—but does not provide automatically captured performance data.

Wyscout – The spy in the scouting sector

Wyscout is not a platform for your own games, but a tool for analyzing opponents and scouting. You get access to a huge video database with countless teams and players worldwide—including statistics. Perfect if you are looking for new players or want to prepare specifically for opponents.

zone14 – The all-in-one solution for ambitious clubs

And then there is zone14 – the system that integrates tactical video analysis and performance data in one. No GPS, no extra effort. With an automated camera, AI-supported game analysis, and a clear focus on the reality of amateur and semi-professional clubs.

zone14 in detail: The best of both worlds – without any extra effort

At zone14, we asked ourselves:
Why do you actually have to choose between performance data on the one hand and tactical context on the other?

Why can't both work simultaneously and fully automatically?

That was precisely the starting point for our system: a complete, integrated solution specially developed for the needs of amateur and semi-professional soccer clubs.

The eye: The zone14 TWO AI camera

The fully automatic camera is mounted once on the floodlight mast or grandstand and records all games and training sessions in crystal-clear 4K quality. No cameraman needed, no operation, no effort.

The Platform: REPLAY + STATS

All footage is automatically uploaded to zone14 REPLAY where coaches can edit clips, add drawings, and analyze tactics.
The key, however, is zone14 STATS:
It extracts performance data directly from the footage:

  • Running track
  • Sprint speed
  • Heatmaps
  • Player workload metrics

And every data point is directly linked to the game context.

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How does that look?

For example, you click on “10.5 km running distance” for your central midfielder and see every single run in the video.
You will immediately notice:

  • Was the run clever?
  • Did he create spaces?
  • War er taktisch sinnvoll oder hat eher nur Energie verbraucht?

So könnt ihr Training und Spielanalyse nicht nur auf Daten, sondern immer auch auf dem „Warum dahinter“ aufbauen. Genau das macht moderne Fußballanalyse aus.

Conclusion: The data-driven future for your club is here—and it's easier than you think.

The question is no longer whether performance data and video material should be used in soccer. The question is: How can this be done in the smartest way possible—and in a way that fits in with everyday club life?

Catapult remains an exciting tool for pure performance diagnostics in the professional arena.

For coaches who want to share tactical feedback and video clips with their team, Hudl is a strong choice.

And when it comes to scouting and opponent analysis, there's hardly any way around Wyscout.

But:  If you are looking for a comprehensive, affordable, and easy-to-use system that will help you advance on all levels—physically, tactically, and organizationally—then zone14 is exactly the right tool for you.

It is the only system that automatically records and extracts performance data and links it to tactical gameplay. No frills, no additional hardware, no half-baked solutions—just modern game analysis tailored to everyday life in amateur and semi-professional soccer.

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Boosting Revenue for Amateur Football Clubs: With Video Analysis & Modern Sponsorship Strategies

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Boosting Revenue for Amateur Football Clubs: With Video Analysis & Modern Sponsorship Strategies

Let’s be honest – who in amateur football doesn’t know this feeling? The passion for your local club knows no bounds. You give up evenings and weekends, stand by the pitch in wind and rain, wash kits, organize away trips, and cheer every goal as if it were the World Cup final. This passion is the invaluable engine that keeps our clubs alive. But while the love for the game is burning, the cold reality of the club’s bank account often hurts. The costs of pitch maintenance, equipment, association fees, and referees keep rising, while income, at best, remains flat. You go from season to season and ask yourself: How can we increase the income of our amateur football club – not just to survive, but to grow?

This blog is your answer. We’ll take you on a journey that goes far beyond the pitch. We’ll show you how to build a new, stable foundation for your club’s finances. With the zone14 all-in-one system, you won’t just improve your on-field performance – you’ll unlock powerful new revenue streams, because our system is built specifically for the realities and challenges of amateur football.

Revenue Sources for Amateur Clubs: The Eternal Challenge and the First Step Toward Change

Before we dive into modern solutions, let’s take an honest look at the current situation. Traditional revenue sources are often like an old tactics book – tried and true, but outdated and inefficient:

  • Membership fees: They’re the foundation, but usually only cover the most basic fixed costs. Raising them is often met with resistance.
  • Matchday kiosk sales: Important but highly dependent on weather, crowd size, and the limited time of volunteers.
  • Sponsorship: Competing for local sponsors is tough. Often, it ends with a pitch-side banner offering little measurable value. The result? Tough negotiations and uncertain renewals.
  • Digital strategies: Everyone talks about them, but volunteer-led clubs often lack the time, know-how, or user-friendly tools to implement them.

This is exactly where zone14’s philosophy comes in. We don’t just offer a smart camera – we provide a complete, integrated ecosystem that strengthens your club at every level, including financially.

zone14 as a Revenue Engine: How Video Analysis Can Increase Your Return on Investment

Many of you may see investing in a professional video system as a pure expense. At zone14, it's the opposite: Our system is a strategic investment that delivers measurable ROI and enables predictable new revenue streams previously unthinkable.

1. Revolutionize Your Sponsorship Strategy with Professional, Measurable Video Content

This is the fastest, most effective way to bring more money into your club’s budget. With automatic match recording via the zone14 TWO AI camera, you suddenly have an entirely new arsenal of compelling arguments for sponsors.

  • Professional highlight clips as a high-impact ad platform: Instead of shaky phone footage, you can deliver sharp, cinematic-quality 4K highlights created easily with zone14 REPLAY . These emotional clips are gold for social media and your website. You're not just offering static ad space – you're selling measurable digital reach, emotional storytelling, and a modern brand image. Show your sponsors the view counts – these are hard facts that convince.
  • Livestreaming: The ultimate sponsorship goldmine: Broadcast your matches live in high quality – and most importantly, without a paywall. This instantly makes your club more attractive to a broader, more modern range of sponsors. Suddenly, your sponsorship packages can include:
  • Sponsor logos as overlays in the live stream – just like the pros.

Short video ads before, during halftime, or after the match.

  • Sponsored match segments: “Goal of the Game – presented by Metzgerei Huber” or “Starting XI – brought to you by Autohaus Schmidt”.
  • Even minor details like the scoreboard or substitutions can be monetized.

Data-driven, exclusive sponsorship with zone14 STATS: Use zone14 STATS to extract running distances or sprint speeds from the video – no expensive GPS vests needed. Offer sponsors exclusive, innovative packages: “Fastest player – sponsored by [Local Gym]” or “Top runner – brought to you by [Energy Company]”.

2. On-Field Success = Off-Field Revenue: The Power of Analysis in Amateur Football

Beyond sponsorship income, video analysis unlocks the most fundamental driver of growth: on-field performance.

 

  • Better players, better team – thanks to REPLAY: With zone14 REPLAY, coaches can break down tactics with real footage, not just drawings. Players receive visual feedback they understand immediately. Better insights = better players. And better players = more wins, more fans, and more opportunities.
  • Success attracts people – and income: A successful team playing exciting football brings in more fans on matchdays, which directly boosts revenue. A strong reputation and rising membership numbers also attract higher-caliber sponsors eager to associate with success.
  • Nurture talent and keep them at the club: Ambitious players want to improve. When they see that your club uses pro-level analysis tools, they’ll want to join – and stay. That means less spending on replacements and more long-term performance stability.

3. Efficiency in Volunteering: Saving Time with Smart Tech

  • Free up volunteers and unlock potential: The zone14 TWO Cam automatically films your matches. No more freezing volunteers chasing the ball for 90 minutes – now they can run the kiosk, announce the game, sell raffle tickets, or support sponsors. All these tasks either generate income or boost matchday quality.
  • Smart scouting without all the travel: Analyze opponents or new signings remotely through the zone14 platform. Save countless hours on the road and avoid costly transfers that don’t fit your team.
By coaches for coaches.

Learn more about the entire zone14 system for your club!

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Your Action Plan for a Stronger, Wealthier Club – with zone14 as Your Strategic Partner

Audit your current revenue streams: Where are you right now? Take a hard look at your finances and identify gaps and opportunities.

  1. Rethink and upgrade your sponsorship strategy: Use digital tools from zone14 (highlight clips, live streams, data-driven packages) to pitch bold new ideas to local businesses.
  2. Invest strategically in your club’s future: Think of zone14 not as a cost, but as one of the smartest
  3. investments you can make for your club’s future – financially and athletically.

Conclusion: Time to Stop Struggling

It's time to professionalize and monetize your amateur club!

Running an amateur club will always require passion and hard work. But it doesn’t have to be a constant financial balancing act. zone14 was built from the ground up to overcome the bottlenecks of amateur football. We give you a complete, integrated system that takes your sporting level up a notch while providing practical tools to boost your income, relieve your volunteers, and ensure your club is future-ready – financially, socially, and athletically.

It’s time to think beyond the pitch and unlock your club’s full potential.

REPLAY on the go!

The new zone14 REPLAY app: Analyze on the go like the pros!

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Now also available in pocket size: The brand new zone14 REPLAY app for iPhone is here

Now also available in pocket size: The brand new zone14 REPLAY app for iPhone is here

We at zone14 have exciting news for all coaches, analysts, and soccer enthusiasts who value professional video analysis and maximum flexibility: The zone14 REPLAY app for iOS is now available in the App Store!

For years, our powerful zone14 REPLAY analysis platform has been the heart of detailed game evaluations on the desktop, perfectly matched to the automatic recordings of our zone14 TWO AI camera. We have listened to your feedback and know how important it is in the often hectic everyday life of soccer to have quick access to analysis tools even when on the go. That's exactly what we now offer you.

Professional analysis power – now always at your fingertips

With the new zone14 REPLAY app for iPhone, we bring the core functions of our proven desktop software directly to your smartphone. For you, this means:

  • Seamless access to your games: All your games, scenes, and tags stored in the zone14 cloud are immediately available on your iPhone.
  • Mobile tagging & clipping: Mark important moments directly on the sidelines, in the team bus, or wherever you are. Create precise clips with the familiar zone14 logic.
  • Intuitive drawing tools on the go: Use our extensive drawing tools (arrows, lines, circles, text, etc.), optimized for touch operation, to clearly visualize tactical aspects.
  • Create & share playlists: Compile scenes for team meetings or individual feedback and share them easily with your team.
  • Quick feedback, maximum impact: Give your players timely, visually supported feedback – often during halftime or immediately after the game.

The perfect addition to your zone14 system

The zone14 REPLAY app is more than just another video app. It is the logical mobile extension of our integrated system. Seamless synchronization with your desktop version and recordings from the zone14 TWO camera ensures a smooth workflow and guarantees that you are always up to date, wherever you are.

We are incredibly proud to be able to offer you this new tool, which will further revolutionize the way you analyze and coach soccer. It's all about giving you maximum flexibility without compromising the depth and professionalism of your analysis.

Ready to make your video analysis mobile?

Download the zone14 REPLAY app now!

We look forward to your feedback and are excited to see how you will use the new app in your everyday soccer life!

Your zone14 team

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