A filter that blocks sports stars from sending dodgy messages or photos on social media, saving them from potential scandals, has been welcomed by New Zealand player agents.
The technology, loaded as an app on to the player's phone, picks up red-flagged words, phrases, or images that may be offensive or controversial. It sends an alert to the sports club administrators, or the player's agent or manager for checking. They can then delete the potentially inflammatory or embarrassing posting and avoid a PR disaster.
Most professional sporting organisations and governing bodies, including the Warriors and the NRL, educate players on the dangers of social media and enforce best practice and policies. But it still doesn't prevent players from posting things that land them in hot water.
Earlier this year, Warriors star Konrad Hurrell was fined $5,000 by his club after a video emerged on Instagram that appeared to show him in a compromising position with Shortland Street actress Teuila Blakely. Warriors media and communications manager Richard Becht said the club keeps a close eye on social media developments.
"We're certainly interested in resources which have the ability to improve our processes and are always keen to explore these, dependent on budgetary constraints."
