Designing a sports fans model with a social network approach in the Premier Football League

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD student of Physical Education and Sport Science Department,Qazvin branch, Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran

2 Assistant Professor of Department of Physical Education and sport Science, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University , Qazvin .Iran

3 Assistant Professor of Department of Physical Education and sport science, Qazvin Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qazvin, Iran

Abstract

The purpose of this study was designing a sports fans Model with a social network approach in the Premier Football League. The research method is qualitative with a systematic analysis approach.The statistical population included all managers, board members and experts of sports clubs and presidents of clubs' Premier League football clubs and library resources.A statistical sample of a sufficient number based on theoretical saturation was purposefully sampled and available (21 people). Research tools included systematic library study and semi-structured interviews. The validity of the instrument was assessed using qualitative validation methods (content validity, kappa coefficient).Coding and conceptual framing methods were used to analyze the findings.The proposed analytical framework includes four sections: emotion management, fan attitude, fan ownership, and consequences. Emotion management includes four dimensions of pleasure, affection, positive surprise and dissatisfaction.The attitude and ownership of the fans also included the views of the fans and the stakeholders. The third part included cognitive and social changes.The financial dimensions, identity building, fan system development, fan satisfaction, and fan loyalty were as consequences of managing sports fans with a social networking approach.According to the research results, the analysis of the dimensions of emotion to consequence management in the fan management system with a social network approach has a process nature.Accordingly, analysis, planning and strategic measures for the development of the advocacy system with the approach of social networks should pay special attention to the process nature of this sector, the determining factors in each sector and the relationships between them.

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