Dead last: Footy data to make Suns, Titans fans cry

IT’S the convoluted data-analysis to make any Gold Coast footy fan cringe.

IT’S the convoluted data-analysis 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.

It’s why the Titans were ranked 15th of the 16 NRL team, 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.

HOLBROOK OUTLINES No.1 TITANS AMBITION

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 edges out Hawthorn in AFL.

“Emotions matter because they drive outcomes, affect long-term advancement, and protect a property when in crisis,” Maynard said.

ARROW CALLS OUT ‘FAT MESS’ TEAMMATE

“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.”

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

TITANS MAKE HUGE CALL ON FOOTY FUTURE

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 early exit at the World Cup hasn’t made Australians any less committed to backing them,” he said. “We all shared their disappointment but we also buy into their resolve to come back stronger.”