In this digital era, fans are super hungry for sports content as they are constantly seeking more & more sports. With the emergence of new tournaments & leagues across sports & rise in the digital platforms like OTT & streaming apps, Users now have more access than ever to a wider range of competitions. Sports fans not only focus on their favorite sport from their country or continent but follow multiple sports & leagues across the globe. With so many leagues offering a variety of sports content across various platforms, trying to attract & engage fans to their tournaments, there is a high chance of users going for one that’s more engaging, convenient, and always available.
On the other hand, league owners are struggling to retain their fans’ attention on their tournaments. Tournaments organizers are facing issues of being relevant, of being able to showcase in front of a large user base, to have a committed fan base. Especially leagues with the shorter duration format are unable to get much audience for their tournaments. Millennials and Gen-Z fans are turning away from traditional TV viewing and toward social media, streaming & mobile apps seeking enhanced experience & engagement, a trend that has grown exponentially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Leagues around the world are competing for fans on a global scale, trying to adapt to the new trends and technologies to attract & engage fans.
Let’s look at the challenges faced by leagues
1. League/tournament visibility to fans
The most common issue any new league faces is its visibility to its fans. With so many sports tournaments taking place around the year all around the world, it’s difficult for leagues to stand out in this global sports chaos. The next generation of sports fans is growing up surrounded by digital and social content. Therefore, leagues need to work harder to ensure their content is unique, engaging, and stands out amongst the rest.
2. Low fan following
Fans are the backbone of any tournament. Often leagues complain that bigger sports events with famous players attract a major portion of fans leaving smaller leagues with a small share of fan following. Leagues using social media for fans are connecting but not Interacting. Thus, creating a high probability for leagues to go unnoticed or ignored by the fans.
3. Continuous fan engagement
Even if leagues somehow can get their fans’ attention, it doesn’t last long without proper engagement. Today’s sports fans seek better participation and the feeling of getting heard. They want continuous interaction with their teams and favorite players, 24/7. Hardcore fans, unlike simple sports enthusiasts, see themselves as part of the team and not just simple spectators. Leagues are unable to provide a continuous engagement experience to their fans. Thus, users opt for alternatives or switch to tournaments/sports with more engagement.
Read more – https://blog.vinfotech.com/fan-engagement/how-to-make-any-sports-tournament-more-popular-among-fans
