Fan Engagement, Stadium Experience, and Inclusivity in Sports
Our research spans a number of fields and we work together in multidisciplinary groups. Our research groups range from formal collaborations to informal groups of researchers working together on a theme or challenge. Often multidisciplinary, these groups bring together researchers at all career stages with partners and stakeholders on a range of activities that is of local, national or international importance.
Background:
The research team explores the interconnected areas of Fan Engagement, Stadium Experience, and Inclusivity in Sports. Fan engagement now extends beyond mere attendance, aiming to foster deep, emotional connections between fans and teams. This includes creating interactive experiences that promote long-term loyalty and active fan participation. Stadium experience is a vital aspect, encompassing factors like seating comfort, crowd flow, in-game entertainment, and digital enhancements such as Wi-Fi and real-time stats, all of which enrich the live experience.
The team prioritises inclusivity, aiming to make sports and events accessible and welcoming to diverse groups, including people with disabilities and those from various socio-economic backgrounds. Nationally recognised for their expertise in evaluating sports programs and match-day experiences—working with organizations like Rugby Australia, Cricket Australia, Football Australia, and the National Rugby League—the team is dedicated to fostering a sports culture that values diversity and accessibility.
Researchers:
Dr Jess Richards
Publications:
Rugby Australia:
Active Rugby Hubs: Evaluating the Impact of a Rugby Program in Australia. (opens in a new window)
Tennis Australia:
Game On: LGBT+ Inclusion in Australian Tennis (opens in a new window)
Cricket Australia:
Sydney Sixers: Evaluating the Social Impact of LGBT+ Diversity and Inclusion Work (opens in a new window)
Parramatta Eels Rugby League Club:
From Barriers to Benefits: Investment in Women's Sport (opens in a new window)
Back to #PARRAdise: Match-day Insights from Bankwest Stadium (opens in a new window)
Football NSW:
Multicultural Settlement Program Evaluation (opens in a new window)
Research
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- Agri-Tech and Supply Chain
- Applied Finance, Property and Economic Development
- Carbon Accounting and Sustainability
- Cost–Benefit Analysis
- Equity and Inclusion
- Fan Engagement, Stadium Experience, and Inclusivity in Sports
- Managed Aquifer Recharge through Village-level Intervention (MARVI)
- Marketing and Artificial Intelligence
- Small and Medium Enterprises