Soccer fans' motivation as a predictor of participation in soccer-related activities: An empirical examination in Israel

This study tested the applicability of the Sport Fan Motivation Scale (SFMS) developed by Wann (1995) in the Israeli soccer setting. The study examined whether the scale can be applied to soccer specifically, not just to sport in general. It also tested the predictive validity of the SFMS by developing a scale of participation in soccer activities and examined several hypotheses regarding its relationship to the SFMS. The sample consisted of 327 high school students in the north of Israel (an 86% response rate). The findings showed that the SFMS predicted a significant amount of variance of participation in soccer activities. Results of regression analyses showed that eustress (positive stress), self-esteem, group, and aesthetic motivations were strongly related to active participation in soccer activities. Entertainment, self-esteem, and economic motivations were strongly related to passive participation in soccer activities. The findings are discussed in terms of their conceptual and practical contributions.