College sports team fandom?

Something that's been bugging me, are there certain characteristics of colleges and their sports team that tend to attract a larger fan base? What are colleges with larger fan bases doing right?

There are various factors that contribute to a school having a larger sports fan base. Here are a few key elements:

1. Historical success: Colleges that have historically successful sports programs tend to have a passionate fan base. These successes could be in terms of championships won or players drafted in professional leagues. For example, schools like Duke, Alabama, and UConn, known for their strong basketball or football programs, have large, dedicated fan bases who show up consistently even when the team is not competing.

2. Budget: Schools with larger athletic budgets can often recruit top-notch athletes, build state-of-the-art facilities, and maintain excellent coaching staff, further boosting the performance of their teams and attracting fans. In addition, a good budget allows for a more robust marketing and branding, which can also attract more fans.

3. School size and location: Larger universities or those located in areas without professional sports teams tend to have larger fan bases. These schools provide a sense of community and are often the primary source of entertainment and engagement for those in the surrounding areas.

4. Rivalries: Healthy rivalries with other schools often play a crucial role in maintaining fanbase engagement. These rivalries can encourage game attendance, merchandise sales, and overall school spirit. Think of the enduring rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State in college football.

5. Traditions: Schools with unique athletic traditions can create an engaging atmosphere that holds the fanbase together and attracts others. Traditions like Ohio State's dotting of the 'i', Auburn's 'Tiger Walk' or Texas A&M's 'Midnight Yell' create a sense of belonging and are a spectacle for fans and opposing teams alike.

6. Alumni engagement: Schools that maintain strong relationships with their alumni can extend their fan bases well beyond just students on campus. Successful alumni engagement strategies can include hosting networking events, discounts on tickets, and special recognition during games.

Remember that attracting a fan base for college sports is not just about winning games, it's about building an engaging, inclusive community fueled by school spirit.