Blog 7: Go team!
Topic: Sports and media
How has sports been effected by mass media? What types of media are used to portray/enhance/encourage sports? How do you interact with sports through various media? How does this impact children?
These are just a few questions to get you started, but feel free to write anything regarding the general topic of sports and media. Hint: if you are at a loss, read Julia's articles for Monday before you blog.
How has sports been effected by mass media? What types of media are used to portray/enhance/encourage sports? How do you interact with sports through various media? How does this impact children?
These are just a few questions to get you started, but feel free to write anything regarding the general topic of sports and media. Hint: if you are at a loss, read Julia's articles for Monday before you blog.
posted by cmartin at 9:48 AM
30 Comments:
How has sports been effected by mass media? What types of media are used to portray/enhance/encourage sports? How do you interact with sports through various media? How does this impact children?
Sports has been affected by media in a BIG way. Games are broadcast and just about anyone can watch a sport from anywhere, whether it be from their own home or while visiting in another place. This fuels fanaticism. Adverstising affects sports because athletes are used to endorse products, which gives athletes more stardom and popularity. Often, this shifts sports from being just about sports to being about money, endorsements and fame. Many people disagree with this shift, but sadly, that's what's happening.
Sports has been affected by media in a BIG way. Games are broadcast and just about anyone can watch a sport from anywhere, whether it be from their own home or while visiting in another place. This fuels fanaticism. Adverstising affects sports because athletes are used to endorse products, which gives athletes more stardom and popularity. Often, this shifts sports from being just about sports to being about money, endorsements and fame. Many people disagree with this shift, but sadly, that's what's happening. Children are affected because they watch TV starting at a young age and when they see these athletes eating their favorite cereal, they are more likely to be attracted to them, their strength and their sport.
It's funny, while watching the football game last weekend on TV bc I was a little too hungover to stand in the 12:30 sun, my roommate couldnt stop commenting on how annoying all the advertizments were. The score was posted next to an add for some JP company, and each report of statistics had a big sponsor label right underneath. Even the first down like was advertising "nexium" or whatever the "purple pill" is. In a way, if you really let yourself focus on all the ads, it really detracts from the enjoyment of the game. I think media has gotten too interconnected with sports in the advertising sense. They even have tv time outs...how ridiculous!!!
Media has definitely been beneficial to Sports. Essentially mass media is what has sky-rocketed sports into popularity in America. If it wasn’t for media, sports wouldn’t be were it is today. Only people that attend games would be able to watch and become familiar with sports if it wasn’t for media. Sports would probably very obscure if we couldn’t televise games and sport events. Not only has media been of benefit for sports in general, but it has also been for athletes. Athletes have also become celebrities through media, and have also made more profit than just what they make from playing their sport, through endorsements on mass media, athletes have really added to their salary. Mass media has also encouraged others to participate in sports, therefore adding to the activeness people. Media in general has just been an asset to the sports community.
Sports and the media heavily influence
society as a whole, in both a positive and negative way. If you are a sports enthusiast, the media through television provides round the clock coverage from all over the world. Any newspaper on a daily basis can provide an update on the latest scores and any recent player highlights. The love for sports and athletes does encourage our youth to participate in exercise and sports. Many athletes are used in advertising products that are nutritional and/or items which provide physical comfort, such as clothing. All of the above mentioned help to promote a healthy life style. However, sports and the media also have a negative connotation. Sometimes in a school setting, the young children are more concentrated on their sport than academics. When young people are bombarded with images of athletes who are multimillionaires with huge homes, fancy cars and flashy wardrobes, they often think that this can be them also. The media makes it seem so likely, but realistically we know that only a few get the opportunity to be a famous athlete. In recent years, the media has been particularly emphasizing the drug activity among athletes along with much of their sexual exploitations. These accounts have influenced our young people greatly, in almost sanctioning these negative behaviors. It is the amount of coverage given these incidents that envelope our young people and suddenly what their focus becomes. The media appears to be feeding the thought that these behaviors are standard among those that become famous athletes, and that as long as they face their mistakes and give back to the community, those negative activities are okay. My other thought is that there are so many worthwhile news stories, that I think are overlooked, my our societies passion for sports that is definitely fueled by the media.
As a true lover of sports, I've grown to both appreciate and detest the influence media has on them. It's wonderful because not everyone lives near a decent team or can afford to actually go to a game, so being able to see it on TV or hear it on the radio is fantastic. As cheesy as it sounds, sports really are a way to bring people together. I think the Super Bowl is broadcasted in at least 100 different countries, same thing with the World Series. That kind of ability to reach out is truly phenomenal. The downside to all this is the various advertisements and the desire of athletes to get endorsement deals. Do we really need to stop gameplay for a "word from our sponsors?" Does LeBron James really need to be in a commercial for bubble gum? I think this takes away from those who truly play for the love of the game, rather than for a love of the money the game brings.
All sports have been effected by mass media in a huge way. If it werent for games being broadcast on television people wouldnt nearly be as interested as they are in football and basketball. In a way, media has helped almost all types of professional sports to become a big part of our culture. Further, the media brings news of these games through reports done afterward or live broadcasts. Some events, such as the superbowl, seem to focus more on the media involved than the actual game. Such media technology has allowed for sports to reach people who would otherwise be without them.
Oh, Sports and Media. How I love theee. I actually have a lot to say on sports. I believe it to be one of the driving areas of both broadcast television and all the other mediums. In fact, the most widely read section of the newspaper is sports. I really think that media would not be the way it currently is without sports. Especially on TV. Commericals for Gatorade, shoes, etc. are big time advertisers for television, and now shows, such as survivor support products that would enhance an athelete's physical conditions. I work at a radio station, and I think we would be taken off the air if it weren't for Steve Russell and his sports show. Sports and the media is a very popular topic, and definitely glad it will discussed.
While there may be numerous benefits to widespread media coverage of sports. Despite the many benefits, however, media portrayal of sports has an enormous negative affect on society's ideas about gender. It is one of the key places where notions of masculinity and femininity are formed. Media representation (be it magazines, newspapers, news broadcasts, or internet sites) largely focuses on the 'masculinity' associated with 'manhood'. The focus of this coverage centers around traits associated with masculinity: courage, competition, agression, and strength. The media devote most of their coverage to men and their accomplishments. Women are largely ignored. When they are covered, female athletes represent a small fraction of the headline coverage received by their male counterparts. Go to any popular news site. What fraction of photos, links, articles, or stories focus on a female athlete? Sadly, very few. When they are covered, media representation is often skewed, referring to their roles as wives, mothers, daughters, or even sex symbols. Personal life is often brought into the limelight (take Anna Kournikova, for example). Why not focus purely on their athletic ability? While I do recognize that some have attempted to present a more balanced view, there are many strides to be made in the realm of media coverage of sports. The reality is that media coverage of sports help create societal beliefs about masculiniity and femininity, and ultimately reflect on how each sex is valued in society.
Sports and media go hand in hand. You only need to look at the Superbowl to realize how amazing this relationship has become. For approximately 4.5 hours, industry leaders shell out millions of dollars for mere seconds of airtime. Personally, I cannot even begin to fathom that kinda of exchange.
Then you have the technological relationship, where the sport experience improves with additions to electronics. An example of this would be the sky cam: a camera attached to numerous zip lines that can virtually obtain any angle on the field, including directly above and behind the QB.
For online sport junkies, the new craze in fantasy sports defines this paring of media and sports, allowing players to create, manage, and compete with their own teams.
Lastly, I look to videogames. It is without question that the success of videogame power house Electronic Arts is in large part, due to their development of the Madden franchise. The largest and most successful game producer, Electronic Arts is guaranteed millions each year with their football phenom. Furthermore, as videogames get more advanced, they are now being used to simulate plays, events, and games on sports TV networks, representing real life players through their virtual identities.
Sports have been transformed by mass media. Earlier today I watched the Bucs game I realized that this is what the blog was talking about. Thousands, possibly millions of Bucs fans together watching the same game resulting in the same victory, now that’s priceless. It is not new that media influences all facets of our lives; it specifically influences those who will lead us into the future, our kids. I remember a time where traveling between my parents house and my aunts house we couldn’t watch the game, or even know what was going on until the TV was on, and we caught up with earlier plays. Now, we can be anywhere and know what is going on. Just yesterday I was in my car making a beverage run while listening and watching parts of the Gator game on my satellite radio in my car. I could be constantly connected to the game wherever I went. Media has increased the number of people who attend sporting events – virtually, and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Sports has become one big advertisement frenzie. From the logos on the athletes, so the signs in teh stadiums, and the infamous Super Bowl commericals. Of course, sports fans will be sprts fans. They watch because they love the games. And the media feeds of these situations where they already have a crowd, and they already have their attention to show them anything. Not to mention all the endorsing that athletes do. I think that aspect is what effects children the most. They see an inspirational figure saying that eating Cheerios is going to help them make it to the NFL, and after that, all little Johnny wants to eat is Cheerios.
I guess before media, which of course I can't recall and wouldn't even comprehend, I suppose sports were purely about the game. There was an athletic event with a number of competitors, the officials, and perhaps some onlookers. When media got ahold of sports all the games changed considerably. Players, coaches, fans, and even indifferent people all got plugged in to an entire other universe. I think sports are one of the most important things in the world-- up there with goverment, education, and religion. This may seem a bold idea, but sports change so many lives in so many different ways that it must be that significant in the scheme of the world. After all, just look at the olympics. Nation's pride, hopes, dreams, and politics often rest on the shoulders of a runner or swimmer, or gymnist. The media brings all of this determination and passion to anyone's eyes or ears who are willing to participate. We know the story lines, we know the favorite, we know the underdog, we know the statistics. Sports drive some peoples entire lives. There are millions of jobs in the United States alone, that in one way or another deal with the professional sports industry. I am a huge sports fan, not just football, not just my my universities program, but the entire system. I watch espn at least once every single day. I watch baseball, football, basketball, tennis, golf, whatever.... every single day. I have fantasy teams, sports bets, fan clubs, and am even a member of Boston's "Red Sox Nation". Right now I am watching a team make the World Series that hasn't been there in decades. I don't only consider the players jubilance and the coaches and management. But the entire city that tonight is a buzz with hope and excitement that maybe this is the year that their team can win it all. Being a sport's fan is one of the best parts of my life, and the fact that the media is the driving engine bringing this to my doorstep makes me appreciative.
Media definitely has a huge impact on sports. It creates hype, develops a loyal fan base, and encourages competition. How else could a Buffalo Bills fan who lives in Florida keep up with her team? Game coverage is featured on television, radio, and newspapers. Athletes also play a huge part in advertising, for example providing as a spokesperson. Michael Jordon alone has been associated with Nike, McDonalds, Hanes, Ballpark Franks, Gatorade, and more. Mediums such as Fantasy leagues and video games play a huge part in sports, too. Fans can get a more interactive feel for the games. It allows them to actually feel like they’re in the game.
in response to kate....
you have to remember that the national coverage of these games are what give the teams the revenue to have such stadiums in the first place. Yeah there's TV timeouts, because that's how television works, there has to be ads to go in the time slots or else the station would go under. And as far as advertisement at the game: did you notice the publix toss for 10,000$$$ or the certain products that are sold inside the stadium, like only pepsi. Yeah it's a commercialized territory, but if you were in charge of that department at UF would you turn down multi-million dollar Pepsi endoresements?
In your responses, feel free to bring in the class discussion on sports and media. That was probably our most boisterous class and you seemed to have strong opinions on the topic. Feel free to let those opinions and discussions resurface in the blog responses. Also, feel free to reference the articles Julia presented on.
I think Jordan definitely hit all the items I was thinking about with media and sports. Sports are entertaining and I like to browse also, after all it is the American way. However, Jordan is so on target with the comparison of hollywood stars with athletes, not only in the adoration factor, but many athletes are trying their hand at advertising, tv and even the movies. Obviously, as Jordan, I really do not like the negative factor on the sports fans, especially the young people.
--in response to msimhan--
You are right, the money that is involved in sports takes away from the "love of the game". But without all that money, then many events and things of that sort would not be possible. Giving recognition to sponsors is important if we want them to continue sponsoring teams and events. We just must trust that the "love of the game" is still there.
---In response to Jensy---
Though I've never given it much thought, your point on the lack of adult-oriented "go outside and play" service announcements is interesting. Like you stated, kids' networks such as Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, and the Disney Channel all openly express a collective opinion that their viewers should leave their televisions each day to partake in some physical and motive activity. Personally, I think this is a great move on their part as they are basically telling viewers to stop watching from time to time.
To explain the lack of announcements with adult foci, I'm guessing the reasons are financial (as every decision seems to be in entertainment these days). Why inspire adults to stop watching when you don't have to? Why theoretically tell individuals to stop giving you money? For most networks, this is a shared philosophy, though I have noticed some service announcements that have improved this situation. For example, the "Do a little more each day" adds (not sure about title). In each, they tell their audience to go a little bit further physically and push yourself more than necessary, with steps as little as parking further away from an entrance.
---In response to Vanessa---
I think you are correct in speaking on the influencial role atheletes have on kids when they are advertising for things. And also, Jon's point about scandals and how kids watch and look at those is very true as well. Because of the media frenzy, atheletes need to consider themselves as role models and act accordingly bc all their actions are watched and scrutinized by young children who might be likely to mimic their behavior...whether it be bad or good.
---Re: Jen Swingle
It's very interesting that you think Internet has affected sports the most. I hadn't even thought of that; I was thinking more along the lines of TV and advertisements. The Internet has a HUUUUGE impact on sports--and on any other sect of our culture for that matter--due to the easy access for information on stats, players, teams, etc. Good observation.
In response to josh w.:
I completely agree with you that sports can change people's lives. Though sometimes it can be in a negative way, for the most part it is extremely positive, like your example of the Olympics. In 1980, the 'Miracle on Ice' gave Americans hope. Impoverished nations today must feel that same hope when they see one of their countrymen competing against the greatest athletes in the world.
in response to msimhan:
I agree, sports are a great way to bring people together. I think half teh fun is being able to be wiht your friends, or even people you don't know, but all of whom enjoy watching teh game as much as you do. And for those who can't go out, are able to watch it on tv or listen to it on the radio. The thing is, advertisers know this, and feed off it. If the entire world is watching the World Series, you will pay as much as it takes so advertise during the air time, because commericals DO work, and your revenue will porbably increase.
In response to Vilamarie---
I agree very much that it seems like sports in general are taking over media. When do advertisers pay the most to go on air? During the Super Bowl. Networks buy out entire days and weeks to cover sporting events. The reason is obvious: People watch. And when people watch, they bring in advertisers, and then they make money. Butt loads of it. So sports are a big part of human interest. But look around--we are the fattest country in the world. There seems to be a lot of aspiration and inspiration in this country, but the media is providing little motivation.
--in response to vilmarie--
I don't fully believe advertising only gives athletes more stardom and popularity. I believe advertising has the ability to make people weathly and tear them apart. Many athletes do not think about how advertising will affect their reputation with their fans. Instead of being heros of those who look up to them, they turn into puppets of large corporations by losing meaning in what they do.
--in response to msimhan--
You make a good point about sports bringing people together. Not only is the Super Bowl broadcasted to over 100 countries, but just think about all of the Super Bowl parties we have. And being a Florida Gator, you can't leave out tailgating! However, I don't think that advertising during sporting events or athlete's signing endorsement deals is such a bad thing. But, I could have a biased opinion being an advertising major.
--In Response to jon r.--
I agree. I also think that ESPN has in turn created a larger market for sports in media. A 24 hour sports channel avilable to anybody at anytime probably also lets more people become interested in these sports. This in turn creates a larger market for sports in the media in general.
--- in response to bianca ---
while i agree that media has influenced and given sports a more pronounced presence in society, i disagree that it has benefited all athletes. a prime example is a college football player. players such as chris leak bring in millions of dollars of revenue to a university over the course of their college football career. advertising revenue, alumni donations, and licensing revenues are all generated due to the popularity of star athletes. after all, if they weren't there, there would be no team. in comparison to what they bring in, they are given very little. sure, you could argue that they receive scholarships to attend school, but what about those students receiving bright futures, or other merit based scholarships? we bring in considerably less than our athlete counterparts.
--In response to Vanessa--
I do believe that sports fans will be sport fans, but fans also have a sense of a sport being authentic, even though the threshold might be miniscule. An example i could use is the XFL, a alternative football league put together by Vince McMahon, CEO of WWE. McMahon used advertising to subsidize the cost for expensive football tickets. The ploy by McMahon worked negatively and the XFL only lasted 1 year.
---In response to Priti---
Haha, I know exactly what you mean about staying connected to your northern team. I wouldn't be able to function if I didn't know what was going on with my hometown football boys, the New England Patriots. Also, what you said about sports stars connected to outside media is absolutely true. I cannot begin to list all of the advertisements I've seen honoring mike or representing the newer Lebron James. Videogames are definitely a huge part of sports now, and like fantasy leagues, all of these continue to add new competition and different aspects to the sports world.
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