SportsHCI 2026 (Annual Conference on Human-Computer Interaction and Sports) is an academic conference held in Saarbrucken, Germany on 2026-11-16. The paper submission deadline is 2026-04-20. Acceptance notifications are sent on 2026-06-25.
Contribution types and areas
As this community develops, we are looking forward to reviewing a range of paper types, which will all be included in our proceedings. We welcome the following types of contributions, each reviewed on its own merits:
Empirical Studies: We encourage submissions of well-designed empirical studies that employ robust methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative, to investigate pertinent questions in SportsHCI and that contribute significantly to knowledge in the field. Studies with longitudinal designs, providing valuable insights over extended periods, are particularly encouraged. These contributions should provide empirical evidence to inform theoretical frameworks, practical applications, or in-depth understanding of the use of technology in sports practices.
Reviews/Meta-Analyses: We encourage comprehensive reviews or meta-analyses that critically assess and synthesize existing literature, thereby providing valuable insights into the state-of-the-art in SportsHCI. Such contributions should offer an in-depth analysis of key trends, knowledge gaps, grand challenges, and future research directions.
Frameworks and Theoretical Contributions: The conference welcomes theoretical and conceptual papers that present innovative ideas, hypotheses, or paradigms relevant to SportsHCI. These submissions should demonstrate a deep understanding of the subject matter and pave the way for future empirical investigations.
Methodological Contributions: We invite papers introducing novel methodologies, data collection techniques, or analytical approaches addressing specific SportsHCI challenges. Such contributions should highlight the potential impact of the proposed methodologies on the advancement of the field.
Case Studies: Authors are invited to submit case studies that present unique and impactful instances within SportsHCI. These cases should not only contribute to theoretical knowledge but also have significant implications for the design and implementation of strategies, interventions, or solutions. Submissions demonstrating innovative approaches to solving real-world problems are highly valued.
Artefact/artifact contributions: We welcome submissions that present research artefacts—such as prototypes, systems, tools, datasets, or design exemplars—that advance SportsHCI. Contributions should demonstrate how the artefact enables new forms of practice, generates novel insights, supports exploration, or opens up new directions for research and application in the field.
We invite submissions on a broad range of topics related to Sports HCI, including but not limited to:
Wearable Technology and Interactive Systems in Sports
Integration of interactive technologies in sports equipment and facilities.
Empirical studies on wearable and interactive systems used in sports practices.
Development and evaluation of wearable devices and interactive systems for performance tracking, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
Data Analytics and Visualization
Real-time and performance-directive analytics for decision-making in coaching and gameplay.
Advanced methods for collecting, analyzing, and visualizing sports data, including combining many sources of data.
User Experience (UX) and Interface Design for Sports and Movement
Design and evaluation of intuitive interfaces for athletes, coaches, and fans.
User studies of sports applications and platforms.
Multidisciplinary perspectives
Critical reflections on how cross-disciplinary approaches and perspectives from other disciplines including human movement science, sports science, sports psychology, and learning science can shape research, design, and practice in the field of SportsHCI.
Research aimed at “understanding the user,” where users include athletes, coaches, and other sport participants as well as the relationships among these participants.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in SportsHCI
Immersive experiences for remote spectatorship.
Cognitive and perceptual impacts of immersive sports technologies.
Simulated environments for injury recovery and rehabilitation.
Applications of VR and AR in training, simulation, and fan engagement.
Interaction Design for Sports Equipment
Innovative designs that enhance interaction with sports gear.
Haptic feedback and sensor integration in equipment.
Accessibility and Inclusivity in Sports and Movement
Technologies that make sports more accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Inclusive design practices in sports technology development.
Cross-cultural user studies in global sports applications.
Engaging with diverse learners through SportsHCI data or practices.
Gamification and Motivation in Sports
Use of gamification to boost athlete motivation, engagement, and performance.
Exergames for training, rehabilitation and performance enhancement.
Behavioral change techniques in sports training apps.
Human-AI collaboration in Sports
AI-driven decision support tools for coaches and analysts.
Virtual coaches and AI-based training.
Explainable AI for sports applications.
Social and organizational aspects of sports
Technology-mediated social dynamics in sports.
Social Media and Fan Engagement
Interactive technologies for live events and broadcasts.
Enhancing fan experiences through social media platforms.
eSports and Competitive Gaming
Player Performance and Biometric Tracking in eSports.
Training Tools and Skill Development for eSports.
Cross-disciplinary studies between traditional sports and eSports.
HCI studies on eSports players and the broader eSports ecosystem (e.g., streamers, coaches, etc.).
Ethics, Privacy and Data Security
Addressing ethical concerns in the collection and use of sports data.
Privacy-preserving technologies and regulations compliance.
Ethical design in performance-enhancing technologies.
Ethical concerns and "dark side" of eSports (e.g., cheating, toxic behaviors, stress).
Ethical issues of AI in sports decision-making.