Table of Contents
Key Takeways
- Players use smartwatches mainly for receiving one-way pitch or play information.
- Coaches use smartwatches for simple app controls like mute, unmute, or switching channels.
- Smartwatch communication must follow NFHS one-way rules if you're governed by NFHS
Why Smartwatches Are Showing Up in Sports
Smartwatches weren’t designed for sports communication… but coaches and players have found simple, practical ways to use them.
Why they’re gaining popularity:
they’re already worn by players
they’re fairly unobtrusive
they deliver clear visual information
they work well with one-way systems
coaches don’t need extra hardware
But they also have limitations, and they are not “replacing” earbuds or audio systems.
This article breaks down exactly what they’re useful for today.
What Smartwatches Are Used For
1. Player notifications (one-way communication)
Players can receive:
pitch calls (baseball catcher)
play calls (UIL football where allowed)
defensive reminders
positional cues
Everything is one-way only, staying NFHS compliant.
2. Silent communication
Perfect for:
loud fields
indoor facilities
coaches wanting zero audible cues
Catcher glances → sees pitch → relays sign.
3. Coaches controlling their comms quickly
Smartwatch apps allow coaches to:
switch channels
mute/unmute
toggle functions
manage the app without pulling out a phone
This is a quality-of-life improvement, not a communication system itself.
4. Play Call and Pitch Call Menus (via The Headset App)
Coaches can send:
pitch selections
football offensive plays
defensive fronts
wristband-number calls
Directly to players’ watches when rules allow it.
Smartwatch Use in Baseball
Smartwatches have become extremely common behind the plate.
Primary uses:
pitch calling (one-way visual)
location cues
defensive reminders
silent operation
Pros:
extremely quiet
eliminates sign-stealing
clear visual display
easy to learn
Cons:
catcher must look down
slower than one-way audio
screen visibility can vary in bright sunlight
How programs decide:
Audio → fastest tempo, catcher never looks down
Smartwatch → silent, simple visual confirmation
Many teams use both:
Audio as primary, watch as backup.
Smartwatch Use in Football (UIL Notes)
In football, smartwatch player communication is more limited.
Under UIL rules (and certain state pilots):
Players may receive:
play calls
formation alerts
wristband-number references
But cannot:
send anything back
receive audio
use the watch for anything two-way
They are not used to replace headset communication.
FAQ Section
Can players use smartwatches in baseball?
Yes, for one-way pitch or play display only.
Can players use smartwatches in football?
In Texas, UIL: yes, for one-way play delivery.
National NFHS rules do not allow player wearables as of 2025 season.
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