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Patel – The Effect of Stadium Type on Fan Atmosphere in the MLS

 

The Effect of Stadium Type on Fan Atmosphere in the MLS (2023)

Undergraduates: Yash Patel, Avery Look, Sarah Wooster, Isaac Weissman


Faculty Advisor: Jonathan Jensen
Department: Exercise and Sport Science

This study explored the increasing attraction and novelty effect of MLS and new soccer stadiums, and how the stadium type affects fan atmosphere. Accounting for the attendance, stadium type, and regional population of MLS teams, we measured whether an NFL or soccer-specific stadium is a more attractive MLS game venue for fans. Results suggested that in a year a team switches into a soccer-specific stadium, there is a decrease of roughly 7,300 fans. This research can assist in quantifying the fan and revenue decrease for an MLS team if there were to be a switch to a soccer-specific stadium. In addition, expansion teams can use these results to justify playing in an NFL stadium rather than investing in a new soccer-specific stadium.

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