Abstract
This chapter examines the impact COVID-19 has had on the world of sports and the critical leadership traits that emerged during this challenging time. Sports leagues around the world were dramatically impacted by the global pandemic, and as they navigated the many “new norms” that were created during this time, certain leadership qualities became extremely important to determining an organization's success. Specifically, the ability of leaders to effectively communicate, be flexible with operational procedures, and to establish a culture of creativity all proved to be instrumental in determining an organization's ability to persevere through the many challenges they faced.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Esports: Name given to organized electronic sports, typically in the form of organized video game competitions. Over the past several years the global Esports market has grown to generate in excess of $1 billion annually.
Playoffs: Following the completion of a regular season, the highest performing teams compete in an elimination style tournament, ultimately culminating in a champion. Leagues vary on how they determine how many teams qualify for the playoffs, and the format of the tournament.
Sports Sponsorship: Critical component of professional sports, where brands pay money to leagues, teams and/or athletes in exchange for recognition, promotion and/or hospitality. Common forms of sponsorships include venue naming rights, logo placement on jerseys or fields, player endorsements and media rights.
Collective Bargaining Agreement: Agreements typically negotiated between professional sports leagues and its players, covering subjects such as minimum and maximum salaries, benefits, health & safety protocols, revenue sharing, roster sizes, etc.
Formula One Racing: One of the most popular sports in the world, Formula One Racing, commonly referred to as F1, is the premier level of open-wheel racing cars, with events taking place around the world. Its popularity is highest in Europe and South America, with rapidly growing audiences in North America and Asia.
Make Goods: Term used in sports marketing referring to situations when teams, leagues or athletes are unable to fulfill certain obligations of a sponsorship agreement, and provide “make good” provisions to the sponsor to account for lost sponsorship opportunities.
Major Championships: In men’s professional golf, The Open Championship, The Masters, United States Open and PGA Championship are considered golf’s major championships. In women’s professional golf, the major championships are Chevron Championships (sometimes referred to as the Dinah Shore), United States Women’s Open, Women’s PGA Championship, The Evian Championship and the Women’s British Open.