The impact of distance on fans' intentions to attend team sporting events: a case study of fans of the Carolina Hurricanes of the United States National Hockey League

Abstract

This research examines the influence of distance on the travel behaviour of fans of professional hockey teams; specifically, with reference to theories of distance decay, the research examines the strength of influence that travel distance has on professional hockey fans' road game attendance. Data collection occurred at the RBC Centre located in Raleigh, North Carolina. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to fans of the Carolina Hurricanes of the National Hockey League at the RBC Centre. The results of the analysis indicated that distance influences the travel behaviour of fans of professional hockey teams, and that for respondents there is a relationship between distance and travel behaviour and the type of ticket they purchased and when they attended a game. When factoring in the mode of transportation, the relationship between the variables changes. By understanding the nuances and complexities of the relationships between distance and travel behaviour, sport, recreation and leisure planners and managers will be able to better cater to, engage with, and attract visitors within specific distance parameters.

Keywords:

• travel
• sport
• distance
• distance decay
• attendance
• fans