Distinct fan behaviour among football spectators in Singapore : an observational study

Despite football having an estimated participation rate of 13.1 percent among the Singapore population, making it one of the most highly participated sport in the country, attendance in the Singapore League (S.League) remained low (Sport Singapore, 2016). The average attendance for the 21st season of the S.League in 2017 was in mere hundreds while important matches that were intended to be a crowd-puller only drew less than 1,500 fans (Teo & Tan, 2017). Despite going through several rule and brand changes, the excitement soon fizzled out and the average attendance for league games continued to dwindle and failed to live up to expectations. Although attendance during league games remained low, the numbers remained consistent which means that loyal followers of the local league still exist. The purpose of this study is to observe the distinct fan behaviours and characteristics displayed by spectators on matchdays and whether these behaviours serve as motivation to attend future matches. Using an observational strategy, the study found that there are certain distinct behaviours showed by the various supporters are influenced by the attitude and subjective norms of the behaviour. Supporter groups exhibit high levels of team identification but displayed a low sense of place attachment to their current stadium. The lack of rivalry did little to generate public interest while negative views on the league might influence passive supporters to react in a certain manner.Bachelor of Science (Sport Science and Management