Virtual reality at the service of the Griffons of Cégep de l'Outaouais

Equipped with his shoulder pads, helmet and camera, Etienne Riel takes part in training for the Griffons team from the Cégep de l'Outaouais. The midfielder records video sequences that will later be used in virtual reality.

A 360-degree camera is mounted on the rookie player's fence to provide his viewpoint during game situations.

When Riel – or one of his teammates – wants to get back into the action, all he has to do is put on a VR headset and grab the controllers to continue playing where he left off. A way to get more reps, especially for midfielders.

We feel like we are on the field“Riel explains. It helps me create reactions that there are no other ways to get.

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He benefits from the initiative of his coach Nicolas Baril. The latter developed the virtual reality tool during the 2023 season, while he was serving as a graduate assistant at the university Gaiters from Bishop's University, by combining several existing computer programs.

The device is likened to a simulator for army pilots. It allows them to be more comfortable in the offensive system. They become more comfortable when they have the opportunity to practice with others because they have done it before, in virtual reality“, explains the playmaker coach.

He pointed to a noticeable improvement in the efficiency rating of midfielders Gaiters After regular use of the device. He also compared data from other teams' quarters on the track and obtained convincing conclusions.

Riel has also noticed an improvement in his agility on the ground as he uses the system once or twice a week. I'm faster and I know how to react more easilycontinued No. 17.

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Also useful for coaches

Gryphon head coach Maxime Saumur also believes the tool is useful for him and his assistants.

Not all coaches and offensive coordinators have played quarterback. We are able to draw games on white paper, we can analyze video on a flat screen, but now we can see if what we are asking is realistic [aux joueurs]Confirms.

In my opinion, the quarterback position is the most complex in all of sports.

Saumur entrusted the responsibility of the midfielders to Nicolas Burrell because of the system he developed, even if he played more as a defensive back during his career.

He has the skills of a coach, but I knew he came with that baggagePilot Griffons estimated.

Burrell hopes to one day sell his as-yet-unnamed creation to help toy makers on a larger scale.

The Outaouais' representatives in Division Three of the Quebec Student Sports Network (RSEQ) will be hoping they can use that technological advantage to finish the season at the top of the standings by hosting Vulkins of the Cégep de Victoriaville on Saturday night in Gatineau.

With information from Jonathan Gobin