Locascio to Judge '1st and Future' Super Bowl Startup Competition

As the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots prepare to face off at Super Bowl LII, entrepreneurs and innovators are gearing up for the third annual “1^st and Future,” a startup pitch competition sponsored by the NFL, Comcast NBCUniversal, and Mayo Clinic. University of Maryland Vice President for Research Laurie Locascio will join a panel of judges comprised of former NFL players, medical experts, and entrepreneurs at the competition on February 3, 2018, in Minneapolis, Minn.

The 1^st and Future competition is focused on advancing innovations in health, safety, and performance of NFL players. Winners from each of the following categories will receive a $50,000 award from the NFL, as well as tickets to Super Bowl LII:

• Advancements in Protective Equipment
• New Therapies to Speed Recovery
• Technology to Improve Athletic Performance 

“Research plays an important role in finding innovative solutions to critical health and safety issues, both on and off the field,” said Locascio.  “I am excited to share my experience as a biomedical researcher to help choose winners of this competition.”

For more information, visit: https://www.sportsengine.com/solutions/1st-and-future/

February 2, 2018