The Role of the Mode of Transport in the Identity Maintenance of Sport Fan Travel Groups

Abstract

Groups of sport fans continually travel to multiple destinations to follow their favourite professional sport teams. Fan travel can be usefully understood from a group identity perspective. The role of the bus in the formation and maintenance of a group sport tourism experience is examined. Participant observation and ethnographic interviews were used to examine the role of the bus for three supporter groups that travel on a regular basis to support their team in the Australian Football League (AFL). It is suggested that the bus is much more than a mode of transport for these groups and that travel time itself has much positive utility. The bus is key and central to the creation and celebration of a shared group identity and acts to ensure the sustainability of the core supporter group. In particular, the bus is utilized as it affords the group the opportunity to parade and celebrate a shared group identity at the game and during travel to and from the destination. Further, the bus provides a shared group space that enables a unique social experience that encourages group members to participate week after week, year after year. During travel time, the bus is transformed into a space that reflects the identity of the group, and isolates the group from relevant outgroups.