Characteristics and Motivations of Die-Hard Sport Fans

Abstract

Past research has examined the die-hard fans’ characteristics, consumption behaviors, and attending motivation of avid sport fans. The study further evaluated those fans’ characteristics and motivation through a series of qualitative interview questions based on the conceptual frameworks of loyalty, fan motivation, fan identity, and “sport-as-religion.” The participants were 24 season-ticket holders of a Mid-west professional football team who also identified themselves as a fan of football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. Their fanship varied from collegiate to professional level teams of various locations. Results showed die-hard fans’ game-attending motivations were influenced by their family, popularity and performance of players, and geographic location. The recognition and identity of “true” fans was earned through strong dedication and knowledge toward their identified team(s). The obtained information inspired researchers to create an actual and a virtual football fan club. Recommendations for future research include increasing sample size and diversification of fans from various sport teams.