Notable sports events to happen off the field
important or more so than the televised or streamed event,’’ she says.
‘‘For many fans the sense of community is deeply appealing, often inspirational and a window into an athlete/fan relationship that is not constructed through a third party such as mainstream media.’’
Athletes get reward from sharing as life on the road can be alienating.
‘‘It doesn’t look like that to outsiders but the research on mental ill health issues in elite athletes frequently paints a different picture with the relentless pressure to perform and succeed.’’
This year provided no shortage of big social media announcements in sport. ❚ Richie and Gemma McCaw announce the birth of baby Charlotte Rose
Receiving more than 31,000 likes, this was one of the biggest off-field announcements.
The couple each shared a photo of the hands of All Blacks great Richie, former Black Stick Gemma and Charlotte locked together with the words: ‘‘We are excited to announce the arrival of our daughter, Charlotte Rose McCaw. Thank you for the love and blessings we have received, our hearts are so full.’’
The couple informed their followers and chose to enjoy the moment by keeping a low profile on their digital platforms since.
❚ Sonny Bill and Alana Raffie announce the birth of Zaid
All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams is one of the best examples of an athlete who bypasses traditional media via social media; he has 600,000 Instagram followers and more than 800,000 Twitter followers.
Williams announced the birth of his three kids, his boxing bouts, code switching and club signings all on his social accounts.
❚ Beauden Barrett and Hanna Laity get engaged
❚ Marina Erakovic announces her retirement from tennis
❚ Dan and Honor Carter announce third baby is on the way
❚ Valerie Adams announces birth of Kimoana Josephine AdamsPrice