Tom Bowers’ Post

Winning Off the Pitch: The Impact Of Fan Engagement on Sports Teams . . Fan engagement is crucial for the vitality and growth of any sport for several reasons. Firstly, fans are the lifeblood of sports; their enthusiasm and support create the atmosphere that makes sporting events thrilling. They also provide the financial backing through ticket sales, merchandise, and viewership that funds teams and athletes. Engaging fans keeps them invested in the sport, ensuring a stable and growing fan base. This, in turn, attracts sponsorships and partnerships, which are essential for the economic sustainability of sports organizations. The best methods of fan engagement often involve interactive and immersive experiences. For example, the NBA has been at the forefront of fan engagement by integrating technology into the fan experience. They’ve implemented virtual reality to allow fans to watch games as if they were courtside and created interactive fan zones where fans can play games and meet legends of the sport. Additionally, the NBA’s use of social media platforms to share highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and player interactions has significantly increased fan engagement by making the sport more accessible and relatable to a global audience. Another exemplary case of fan engagement is seen in European football, particularly with the English Premier League (EPL). The EPL has capitalized on fantasy football leagues, which encourage fans to engage with the sport on a deeper level by managing virtual teams. This not only increases viewership for matches but also stimulates fan discussions and interest throughout the week, not just on match days. Furthermore, the EPL’s community programs, which involve players and clubs in local initiatives, help to build a strong connection between the fans and their teams, fostering a sense of loyalty and community. In summary, fan engagement is essential for the survival and prosperity of sports. It nurtures a passionate and dedicated fan base, which is the cornerstone of any sport’s success. Through innovative use of technology, interactive experiences, and community involvement, sports organizations can create a vibrant and enduring relationship with their fans. #FanEngagement #SportsMarketing #SportsTech #VirtualRealitySports #FantasySports #SportsBusiness #SportsInnovation #EPL

The Business Model of Sports ⚽️ : A Global 🌎 Perspective. In the modern era, sports 🏉 are much more than just games—they are a thriving global industry. The business model of sports 🏏 involves a complex interplay of revenue streams, stakeholder management, and strategic growth. 1. Broadcasting Rights 📺 : Major sporting ⚽️ events attract massive audiences, making broadcasting rights a lucrative source of income. Networks and streaming platforms bid high amounts to secure the rights to broadcast games live. Sponsorship and Advertising: Corporations invest heavily in sports sponsorships and advertising, leveraging the global reach of popular sports to promote their brands. From stadium naming rights to jersey sponsorships, the opportunities are vast. 2. Ticket Sales and Merchandising 🎟️ : Live events draw millions of fans, generating significant revenue through ticket sales. Additionally, merchandising—from jerseys to memorabilia—provides a steady income stream. 3. Digital and Social Media 📱 : The rise of digital platforms has opened new revenue channels through content creation, social media partnerships, and direct-to-consumer models like subscription services. 4. Leagues and Governing Bodies 🏦: Organizations like the NFL, FIFA, and the IOC oversee the regulations, schedules, and overall governance of sports leagues and events, ensuring fair play and competitive balance. 5. Teams and Franchises 🧑🤝🧑: Teams operate as individual businesses within larger leagues, focusing on both athletic performance and financial sustainability. They invest in player development, coaching, and facilities to remain competitive. 6. Athletes 🏃♂️ : Professional athletes are the stars of the show. Their contracts, endorsements, and personal brands are critical components of the sports business model. 7. Fans 🥳: The passionate fan base is the lifeblood of sports. Engaging and growing this audience through fan experiences, community events, and interactive platforms is crucial for sustained success. 8. Market Penetration 🏪: Sports organizations continuously seek to expand their global footprint. This involves hosting games in new markets, forming international partnerships, and tailoring marketing strategies to diverse audiences. 9. Youth Development and Academies 🏏 📚 : Investing in youth sports programs and academies helps cultivate talent worldwide and fosters a deeper connection with the sport from an early age. 10. Technology and Innovation 🤖 : Embracing technology—from VR experiences to advanced analytics—enhances the fan experience and provides new avenues for engagement and entertainment. #SportsBusiness #GlobalSports #SportsManagement #RevenueStreams #FanEngagement #SportsInnovation

⚽️ The landscape of football is witnessing a significant transformation, driven by the power and passion of its fans. Recognized as the essential 12th player, fans are no longer just spectators but participants in the sport's evolution. With the rise of digital platforms, the relationship between sports clubs and their supporters has entered a new era of engagement. From engaging in lively discussions on social media to experiencing games in virtual reality, the ways fans interact with and support their favorite teams have expanded dramatically. Football clubs have quickly adapted to this change, acknowledging the importance of these digital connections. By introducing innovative fan engagement strategies and embracing technology, sports clubs are not only enhancing the fan experience but are also leveraging the global reach and enthusiasm of their fanbase to foster growth and fan loyalty! As we move forward in this digital age, the bond between fans and clubs grows stronger, emphasizing the critical role of supporters in shaping the future of football. Read today’s article about how to revolutionize football fan engagement: https://lnkd.in/gudEnbQY To continue to engage, support, and celebrate the beautiful game together, join Bannerse today! As a pioneer and innovator of the sport tech business and fan engagement solutions, Bannerse is devoted to grow together with the industry and harness the in-stadium match experience for sport clubs and their fans. Our AI-based interactive video player solution with exciting fan engagement features will not only provide better fan experience but will also maximise your sponsorship visibility and revenue during sports events! Book a demo with us today: bannerse.com/book_a_demo #SportsBiz #FanEngagement #SportsMarketing #SportsTech #Bannerse

🚀 Excited to share that I recently contributed to writing a blog post for Orion Innovation. In this article, we dive into how sports technology is transforming the game in Australia, highlighting Orion Innovation's impactful work across the APAC region with leading sporting organisations. 🏉🏆 #SportsTech #Innovation #APAC #OrionInnovation #Technology #SportsIndustry #Sports #SportsIndustry #SportsBusiness

The Power of Sport: Connecting the World 🌍 In an age of distractions and ad blockers, #sports remain a unique force that commands global attention. The latest report by Ogilvy reveals fascinating insights into how sports can drive brand engagement, strategic partnerships, and social change Here are some of the most intriguing takeaways: 🔹 Underdog Stories Captivate Audiences: Burger King's ingenious sponsorship of Stevenage Football Club, a small English football team, turned an #underdog story into a viral marketing triumph. The #StevenageChallenge on FIFA 20 transformed a low-tier team into an online sensation, proving that creativity can trump big budgets. 🔹 Media Transforming Sports Fandom: Netflix's "Drive to Survive" didn't just add viewers to #F1 races; it created 71 million new fans (!!!), reshaping the sport's demographic landscape with a 40% increase in #female fans. This demonstrates the incredible power of #storytelling and media to redefine sports engagement. 🔹 Gen Z's Dynamic Interaction with Sports: Only 31% of Gen Z sports fans watch live events, but their passion remains strong. They seek personalized, interactive experiences across multiple platforms, driving brands to innovate beyond traditional live broadcasts. 🔹 Gamification and Accessibility in Marketing: The Coca-Cola Company's #FindYourSeat campaign for Paris 2024 turned unaffordable Olympic seats into accessible treasures through a nationwide hunt, showcasing how gamification can create unforgettable brand experiences. 🔹 Year-Round Engagement Strategies: T-Mobile's Olympic Run in the Czech Republic exemplifies how long-term initiatives, rooted in community and wellness, can foster deep, lasting brand connections beyond one-time events. This report by Ogilvy highlights the evolving landscape of sports marketing, emphasizing the need for brands to embrace multi-platform strategies, understand fan behavior, and create resonant experiences. The opportunities for B2B collaborations and strategic partnerships are limitless, and the potential rewards are immense🏆 . #SportsMarketing #BrandEngagement #GenZ #FanExperience #InnovativeMarketing #Ogilvy #BusinessDevelopment #FIFA #Netflix #CocaCola #TMobile #CommunityEngagement #SportsIndustry #DigitalTransformation #MarketingStrategy 🔗 Link to the full report in the first comment 👇

What We Can Learn from US Sports: Fan Engagement 🚀 US sports are well known to have the fans at the core of all their products, consistently innovating to create unforgettable experiences and turn spectators into long-term supports Below are some examples that stand out to me and can be implemented in Saudi Arabia and the region 🔽 ✅ Cutting-Edge Arenas: The Los Angeles Clippers’ Intuit Dome sets a new standard for fan engagement with features like a massive “Halo Board” for immersive visuals and the ability for fans to order food and drinks via an app without leaving their seats. These innovations enhance the game-day experience, making it more enjoyable and effortless. ✅ Immersive Technologies: The NBA and NFL regularly use AR to provide fans with unique in-game features, such as holographic player stats or real-time replays. These tools make spectators feel part of the action. ✅ Fan Loyalty Programs: The Dallas Mavericks reward fan loyalty by letting them earn points for attending games or engaging with the team online. Points can be redeemed for exclusive experiences, creating a stronger connection between fans and the franchise. ✅ Social Media Engagement: Teams like the Miami Heat and LA Lakers use platforms like TikTok and Instagram to share behind-the-scenes content, launching viral challenges and campaigns that amplify fan interaction globally. As Saudi continues to grow its sports sector, the key is creating experiences that transform spectators into lifelong fans. From my perspective, I believe there needs to be stronger and more engaging social media campaigns to help fans connect with players. Additionally, it’s essential to incorporate immersive in-stadium technologies, especially with the new stadiums planned for hosting the 2034 World Cup. From your perspective, what US innovation would you like to see brought to the region? #sportsbiz #businessofsport #fanexperience #Vision2030

𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗹𝘂𝗯𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 In today’s digital-first world, sports clubs and organizations are turning to innovative virtual fan engagement strategies to maintain and grow their fanbase. As the digital landscape evolves, the opportunities to connect with fans have dramatically expanded, reshaping how teams interact with their supporters. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁? The shift towards virtual engagement is driven by necessity and opportunity alike. With fans scattered globally and many unable to attend games in person, virtual platforms offer a unique way to foster community spirit and keep fans involved. From live-streamed games to interactive fan zones, the possibilities are endless. 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀: Leveraging video calls can bring fans closer to their favorite athletes, offering exclusive Q&A sessions and behind-the-scenes access. 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝗔𝗥) 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀: AR can transform fan engagement by allowing fans to see virtual replays at home or even pose for photos with their favorite players. 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Introducing games and competitions related to match outcomes or player performances can significantly boost engagement. Implementing loyalty programs where points can be exchanged for merchandise or special content can also keep fans coming back. 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁: Using data analytics, clubs can deliver personalized content to fans, such as birthday messages from players or tailored fitness challenges led by team trainers. 𝗘-𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: Hosting or partnering with eSports events can attract a tech-savvy fanbase and bridge the gap between traditional and electronic sports. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 Adopting virtual fan engagement not only ensures that fans feel valued and connected but also opens up new revenue streams. Merchandise sales, virtual tickets, and sponsored interactive segments can all contribute to a club’s financial health. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 The future of fan engagement in sports is here. By embracing digital transformation, sports clubs can create meaningful, engaging, and profitable relationships with fans worldwide. Let’s harness the power of technology to keep the spirit of sports alive, no matter where the fans are. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗩𝗵𝗶𝘇𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗼. #FanEngagement , #SportsTech, #VirtualSports, #DigitalTransformation, #SportsMarketing, #eSports, #SportsAnalytics, #SocialMediaForSports , #SportsBranding

Sports Today: The Business of Capturing Time In today’s fast-paced world, time is the most precious commodity. The way people choose to spend their time shapes the success of entire industries—and sports are no exception. More than ever, the business of sports revolves around one simple question: how can we capture the audience’s time? From Game Day to Every Day Gone are the days when sports consumption was limited to live attendance or a single televised event. Today, fans engage with their favorite teams and players 24/7 through social media, streaming services, podcasts, and even virtual reality experiences. This evolution has turned sports into an always-on ecosystem, vying for attention against Netflix, TikTok, and gaming. The Fight for Attention The competition for eyeballs—and loyalty—is fierce. In a world where attention spans are shrinking and the range of entertainment options is expanding, sports organizations must rethink how they engage fans. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about creating stories, communities, and moments that resonate beyond the field. Why Time Equals Revenue Time spent with a sport translates directly into revenue. Whether it’s through ticket sales, ad impressions, merchandise, or subscriptions, every second a fan dedicates to engaging with their favorite team generates economic value. But capturing time isn’t just a financial play—it’s about building lifelong loyalty. Fans who invest time today become the backbone of the sport’s future. Strategic Shifts: Meeting Fans Where They Are Sports organizations are now prioritizing accessibility and relevance: Digital platforms: Streaming services and social media make games available anytime, anywhere. Immersive experiences: Augmented reality and interactive content keep fans engaged. Community building: Initiatives that foster deeper emotional connections drive sustained interest. What’s Next? The next frontier is personalization. AI and data analytics are enabling sports organizations to tailor experiences to individual preferences, making every interaction more meaningful. From curated content to virtual fan interactions, the future of sports lies in delivering moments that feel uniquely personal. Capturing Time, Creating Legacy Ultimately, the sports industry’s ability to capture time will define its success. It’s about more than just winning championships; it’s about claiming a lasting place in the lives of fans. Sports aren’t just entertainment—they’re a part of our identities, our communities, and our culture. And in a world where time is the ultimate currency, investing in sports is investing in moments that matter.

The sports industry is undergoing a profound transformation driven by shifts in consumer behavior and technological advancements. As we look ahead, several critical issues are shaping fan engagement: 🔅 Digital Transformation: The rapid evolution of technology demands that sports organizations continually adapt. Offering seamless, interactive experiences through mobile apps, social media, and virtual reality is now essential to keep fans engaged. 🔅 Personalization: Today's fans expect personalized experiences, from tailored content to customized merchandise. Leveraging data analytics to understand fan preferences and deliver individualized interactions is key, but it also requires robust data management and privacy safeguards. 🔅 Content Overload: With a proliferation of content, capturing and retaining fan attention is more challenging than ever. Creating unique, high-quality content that stands out and resonates with fans is crucial. Balancing live event coverage with engaging behind-the-scenes content can help maintain interest. 🔅 In-Stadium Experience: Enhancing the live event experience is vital to drawing fans to stadiums. This includes improving amenities, offering exclusive in-person experiences, and integrating technology for convenience (e.g., mobile ticketing, and cashless payments). Ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment post-pandemic is also a priority. 🔅 Global Reach: Expanding fan engagement on a global scale requires understanding diverse markets and cultural differences. Tailoring marketing strategies and content to resonate with international audiences while maintaining authenticity is a significant challenge. 🔅 Esports and Gaming Integration: The rise of esports and gaming presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Integrating these elements into traditional sports can attract younger audiences. Finding the right balance and constructive interaction between traditional sports and esports is key. 🔅 Community and Social Impact: Fans increasingly value the social impact of sports organizations. Engaging with communities through social responsibility initiatives and showing genuine commitment to causes can strengthen fan loyalty and engagement. As we navigate these challenges, sports industry professionals must ask: 💠 How can we leverage technology to create more immersive fan experiences? 💠 What strategies can we implement to ensure data privacy while personalizing fan interactions? 💠 How do we differentiate our content in a crowded digital space? 💠 What innovations can enhance the in-stadium experience post-pandemic? 💠 How can we authentically engage with diverse global audiences? Adapting to this changing landscape requires strategic foresight, collaboration, and a commitment to innovation. The future of fan engagement is dynamic and full of potential! #FanEngagement #Sportsbiz #Marketing #Community #Sponsorship #Tickets

A public-private-academic collaborative organization, the Aichi Sports Innovation Consortium (AiSIA), was established on June 11, 2024, to revitalize the region through sports using digital technology. - https://lnkd.in/geBxtcmk AICHI, Jun 12 (News On Japan) - A public-private-academic collaborative organization, the Aichi Sports Innovation Consortium (AiSIA), was established on June 11, 2024, to revitalize the region through sports using digital technology. Governor Omura of Aichi Prefecture, wearing goggles, kicked his foot, and the ball displayed on the monitor went straight into the goal. Governor Omura: 'It's quite realistic. Three out of six shots went in.' This initiative aims to utilize digital technology, such as virtual reality, in the field of sports, starting in Aichi. The AiSIA is a collaborative effort between Aichi Prefecture, Chukyo University, Nagoya Grampus, and other industry, academia, and government entities to revitalize the region through sports. In the 2024 fiscal year, they will conduct demonstration experiments using digital technology, aiming to encourage even those without a habit of playing sports to participate. By measuring five events, including side steps and standing long jumps, while watching a screen, AI will suggest suitable sports from over 70 options. In just five minutes, you might discover your unexpected aptitude. Additionally, a training tool using motion capture will assist in improving skills by comparing your golf swing with a model example. Governor Omura: 'As a person who loves sports, I would like to actively support this initiative.' This demonstration experiment, where people can easily enjoy sports, is scheduled to be held for the first time in July at Aeon Mall Nagoya Dome-mae in Higashi Ward, Nagoya. Source: 東海テレビ NEWS ONE https://lnkd.in/grU_mi-e Source