FANS' VIEW? TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT

IT’S the convoluted dataanalysis to make any Gold Coast footy fan cringe.

Or then again, according to the data, maybe they wouldn’t care.

An online survey conducted by True North Research aimed to rank the “emotional connection” fans have to their sporting teams.

Basically, how much they cry if their side were to lose.

The results? The Titans ranked 15th of the 16 NRL teams, above only Cronulla.

It’s even worse news for the Suns, who sit at the foot of the AFL ladder and with the Kangaroos above them.

Georgie Maynard, director at True North Research, said while the Gold Coast teams were low, others such as the Parramatta Eels and Manly Sea Eagles have both seen significant improvements.

“The new Bankwest Stadium has helped the Eels create an aura around the team and their inclusive approach, bringing in their community has had a big impact,” Maynard said.

“The return of Des Hasler as coach of Manly and his visionary leadership, alongside the team’s resilience have been key drivers of the improvement.”

The Storm retain top spot for the NRL while Geelong edge out Hawthorn in AFL.

“Emotions matter because they drive outcomes, affect long-term advancement, and protect a property when in crisis,” Maynard said. “It examines the very heart of the relationship between a sports property and sports fans and uncovers the drivers of emotional connection. This then enables teams to engage a larger audience and create more loyal fans.”

On a national team table the Wallabies continued their emotional connection increase (35th of 62 teams in 2018, second in 2019), with the view of “taking an authentic stand on important issues” striking a nerve for fans.

The Matildas held top spot on the overall EC ladder despite the team’s disappointing World Cup loss.

Using the Matildas as an example, Maynard theorises that disappointing results doesn’t mean a weakened emotional connection.

“The Matildas’ heartbreaking World Cup exit hasn’t made Australians any less committed,” she said.