Petes Perspective: The Digital World
The Petes Perspective will provide an analysis of the intersection between business and junior hockey from the viewpoint of the Peterborough Petes. This blog serves as a new way to learn from the Petes and get even closer to the maroon and white. Connect with us on LinkedIn and stay tuned for upcoming content and events.
The sports business industry is continuously evolving and all organizations have been impacted by the digital takeover. From the recent growth of NFTs, to the addition of Fleets on Twitter, social media and digital platforms have become one of the most important aspects for a team in their marketing efforts. This includes staying relevant and up to date on all platforms, supporting your athletes in the development of their personal brand, posting engaging and meaningful content, in addition to live updates.
Justin Karp, the Social Media Director of NBC Sports Group stated,“Now more than ever, social provides the key one-to-one connection between fans and athletes that builds lifelong affinity.” Athletes’ social media presence provides a perfect avenue to develop a deep connection with their fans and share their unique perspectives. It is imperative for teams to collaborate with their players and help support their personal brand.
Hailing from the U.K., recent Petes alumnus Liam Kirk, carved out his space in the social sphere throughout his time with the Petes. His identity as being one of the top hockey stars to come out of the UK in recent time, cemented his place throughout hockey discourse across Twitter, and helped develop the Petes’ community on an international level. “Kirky,” has undeniably helped bring more awareness to the Petes and OHL as a whole.
Liam Kirk shares his experience living and playing in Peterborough as we stride towards tomorrow’s and Saturday’s OHL Priority Selection!#OHLDraft | #PetesAlumni pic.twitter.com/1RLcwusJ0d
— Peterborough Petes (@PetesOHLhockey) June 3, 2021
Another important aspect of the digital world is posting sincere and engaging content. The past year displayed how much of an influence professional athletes and teams have in the fight for social justice. With professional teams’ large social media followings, sharing a brand’s support on current issues is essential for furthering the conversation and curating a space of learning. Teams are deeply ingrained in their community and can have a serious impact on the society around them.
The Petes are continuously working to achieve both of these things. For example, a priority for the Petes has been making hockey more accessible and one way in doing so, is by forming allyship through content and spotlights on activists within hockey. On February 27, 2021, Shelbi Kilcollins wrote a profile on SMAHT scout and volunteer with the Black Girl Hockey Club, Sebastian Jackson on making hockey a more inclusive space.
The digital world will continue to grow, meaning sport organizations must work to continue to understand what content fans want and how to go about that.
