Does Time Heal all Wounds? A Case Study on Rival Perceptions Before and After Conference Realignment

Authors

Cody T. Havard, The University of MemphisFollow
Daniel L. Wann, Murray State UniversityFollow
Timothy D. Ryan, The University of MemphisFollow
Norman O'Neal, The University of MemphisFollow

Abstract

International Journal of Exercise Science 10(6): 823-832, 2017. The current longitudinal case study investigated how conference realignment and beginning new annual competitions impacted fan rival perceptions for fans of the Texas A&M Aggies, Missouri Tigers, and Texas Christian University Horned Frogs. In particular, fan rival perceptions before and after conference realignment were compared to determine if significant differences were present. Findings indicate that history plays an important role in rivalry as fans of teams sharing long-standing rivalries with schools in their previous conference (i.e., Texas A&M/Texas and Missouri/Kansas) did not differ in their rival perceptions before or after conference realignment. On the other hand, rival perceptions of TCU fans significantly differed in their perceptions of Boise State (previous rival) and Baylor (current rival) before and after conference realignment. Implications for sport managers are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Havard, Cody T.; Wann, Daniel L.; Ryan, Timothy D.; and O'Neal, Norman (2017) "Does Time Heal all Wounds? A Case Study on Rival Perceptions Before and After Conference Realignment," International Journal of Exercise Science: Vol. 10 : Iss. 6, Pages 823 - 832.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijes/vol10/iss6/2