Spectators andSport

Spectators are the supporters and fans of the players,team and sporting codes who promote the game andfind enjoyment in watching the sport. Professional andhigh-level sport at National and International levels is

supported and funded through spectator involvement.

International sport calls on a more broad sense ofcommunity. The people of Australia are the spectatorsof the sports that represent the country; for example,

the Australian men’s National Cricket Team or theAustralian Swim Team. Some Australians follow Nationalteams by travelling to international events; others may

watch the sport on television or through onlinestreaming services, or keep updated on the score

through the internet via live commentary sites or socialmedia posts.Not everyone can be an elite athlete but

everyone can be a spectator of a sport. Therefore,Australia’s sporting identity is built on the spectators and

their support for sport.

Economic andSocial Implications

Australia’s success at international sporting events hassignificant social implications that affect many individualsand communities. Effects include reformed community

attitudes, greater support and participation for aparticular sport, athletes becoming role models for

young people and adopting resilience and persistence inthe face of adversity.

Australia’s performance in international sporting eventscan have significant economic implications; for example,sponsorship and funding opportunities. Sponsorship isreliant on the profile of the sporting performance. Their

financial contributions for such coverage can helpindividual athletes and teams to buy uniforms, pay for

equipment and resources, and contribute to travelcosts. If athletes are not performing on the international

stage, people in the community lose interest or startwatching other sports. In turn, sponsors and advertisers

take interest in more popular sports with a largeraudience.

Impact of HighProfile Athletes

Whether high profile athletes like it or not, they areviewed by many in the community as role models

both on and off the field.

Professional athletes can have a significant impact,particularly with children who might be influenced to

engage in sport or emulate behaviour or uniquetechniques.

In the wider community, they may use theirinfluence to advocate for causes, act as

ambassadors for charities or secure sponsorship.

ADAM GOODES

Player Profile

Questions

Question 1

Discuss how the spectators contributedirectly towards the social and economicimpacts/development of a sport of your

choosing

Question 2Read through the Player Profile on Adam

Goodes. Explain how Adam Goodes used hisposition as a high profile athlethe & role

model to influence organisations andcommunities inside and outside of the AFL