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
Allow fans to experience the game through a pro’s eyes by incorporating gamification into your next sporting event. Whether you opt for a sports simulator or virtual reality experience, these high-tech experiences put fans onto the field of their favorite team, allowing them to see how it feels to pitch, serve, or kick that ball.
Ultimate Sports ArenaPhoto: Courtesy of 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.
Selfie Hashtag Photo BoothPhoto: Courtesy of Interactive Entertainment Group
3. Create a competition
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’ll experience watching from the stands or at home. From sports-themed arcade games to interactive challenges, fans now have power over their own victory or defeat.
Football ChallengePhoto: Courtesy of Interactive Entertainment Group
4. Use branding wherever possible
By incorporating custom wrapping and gaming graphics into the experience, you can help create a consistent and cohesive image for your team and its sponsors. Tell your team’s story with elements such as logos, colors, messaging, and more.
Giant Foosball XtremePhoto: Courtesy of Interactive Entertainment Group
5. Elevate your swag game
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 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.
Social Media Vending MachinePhoto: Courtesy of Interactive Entertainment Group
Whether you’re looking to increase game attendance, create a sense of community, or provide a new avenue for sponsorships, hopefully these sports marketing tips leave you feeling inspired with new ways to keep fans engaged with your team.
