Sports teams 'increasingly looking to social media'

Category: Sports & Internet

July 3rd 09, 14:00

A growing number of sports teams and players are making use of social media sites such as Twitter to stay in touch with their fans, it has been reported.

According to the Boston Globe, while there are several downsides to using social networks in this way - such as the possibility of someone setting up a fake account in a sportsperson's name or players making inappropriate posts - sports teams are increasingly seeing the benefits of using the medium to push their brands.

"Whenever I've got inside info that we're comfortable sharing, I'll use [Twitter] for that," said Daryl Morey, general manager of the Houston Rockets.

"At some point, if there's a controversial thing we do and I'm trying to describe it in a direct way, we're going to need it."

Kevin Weekes of the New Jersey Devils added that social networking websites can offer an authentic way for sports and celebrity figures to connect with members of the public when used correctly.

Earlier this week, MMAWeekly.com reported that Bellator Fighting Championships is one US sports promoter that has made extensive use of social media to engage fans.

The organisation has focused on viral marketing videos in particular to enhance its brand online, the website said.

This news story was brought to you by Bluhalo, a leading UK digital agency.


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