5 Sports Marketing Ideas to Drive Fan Engagement

January 20, 2023
candy by Interactive Entertainment Group, Inc.
Home Run Derby | Photo Credit: Interactive Entertainment Group

Everyone knows a team is only as strong as the fans in its stadium. But with more options available for entertainment and sports streaming, it’s becoming more challenging for sports organizations to stand out and attract an audience. 

Creating a fan zone can be a great way for sports teams to encourage fans to attend games in-person. From sports simulators that put fans in the center of the action to social media tie-ins that create a sense of FOMO for viewers at home, keep reading for a variety of elements to create a fan zone that boosts game attendance and ultimately creates a deeper sense of connection between a sports team and its fans.

1. Use gamification

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Ultimate Sports Arena | Photo Credit: Interactive Entertainment Group

Allow fans to experience the game through the pro’s eyes by incorporating a gamification into your next sporting event. Whether you opt for a sports simulator or virtual reality experience, these high-tech experiences put fans straight onto the field of their favorite team, allowing them to see how it feels to pitch, serve or kick that ball. 

2. Tie in social media 

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Selfie Hashtag Photo Booth | Photo Credit: Interactive Entertainment Group

Social media is a powerful tool that can amplify the reach of your fan zone. But rather than simply encouraging fans to use a hashtag, take things a step further by creating a branded experience they’ll feel inclined to share. From an Instagram-inspired photo booth to a social media powered vending machine, social media tie-ins can ensure your fan zone’s influence goes far beyond the stadium walls. 

3. Create a competition

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Football Challenge | Photo Credit: Interactive Entertainment Group

Competition is a fundamental aspect of any sport, and should not be overlooked when creating a fan zone. By creating a competition exclusive to fans in the stadium, it creates an atmosphere unlike anything they will experience watching from the stands or at home. From sports-themed arcade games to interactive challenges, fans will now have power over their own victory and defeat.

4. Use branding wherever possible

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Giant Foosball Xtreme | Photo Credit: Interactive Entertainment Group

By incorporating custom wrapping and gaming graphics into the experience, you can help to create a consistent and cohesive image for your team and its sponsors. Tell your team’s story with elements including logos, colors, messaging and more.

5. Elevate your swag game

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Social Media Vending Machine | Photo Credit: Interactive Entertainment Group

Rather than opting for your typical booth filled with merchandise, take your swag game up a notch by making it more about the experience than the item itself. By tying the swag to something unique like a futuristic vending machine or a nostalgic prize crane, fans will be more inclined to associate the swag with a sense of accomplishment or a favorable memory.

Whether you’re looking to increase game attendance, create a sense of community or provide a new avenue for sponsorships, hopefully this blog leaves you feeling inspired with new ways to keep fans engaged with your team.

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