Abstract
The organization of individual sports into leagues has received little attention in research, but its practical relevance has increased. This article aims to elucidate the role of competitive balance and league design elements in a sports league with less spectator demand from a player perspective. The analysis focuses on the reformed German Golf League. Because this league is an amateur league with no payment for players and currently few spectators, a change in perspective is appropriate. The empirical results of the stated preference approach highlight the relevance of perceived competitive balance as well as several league characteristics for the players. The findings thus show that governing bodies of sports leagues should focus on both the development of an optimal league design and soft aspects to deliver attractive and challenging competition from a player’s perspective.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
