Red Sox fans connecting on social media

"Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter have created a kind of virtual sports bar — a place to debate, vent, strategize, and bond — as the game unfolds. It creates a sense of connection, of being part of a bigger group, many say, even when they are alone on the couch." ~ Peter Schworm 

So, I stumbled upon this interesting article this morning on The Boston Globe about social media and the Red Sox. The overall point of the article is to show the ever-evolving community of social media playing a role in our lives. For instance, there are plenty of avid sport fans (like myself), who love to share their own opinions online. Twitter and Facebook are key social media sites to find where this "venting" is going on, according to Globe writer Peter Schworm up above. Schworm gives great insight on how these media sites create a "connection" to people from all over the globe watching the same game. 

These statistics only further prove this growing community:

"This year, 64 percent of avid fans reported using Twitter during a game, up from 53 percent a year earlier, according to a fan survey by Catalyst, a consulting company.

After the game, 70 percent used Facebook, up from 55 percent." ~ Peter Schworm

The fact that in a year the use of twitter by avid fans grew as much as 53% from last year is staggering. Next year, it will grow even more, I guarantee it! 

"During Monday’s game, an estimated 500,000 Tweets were sent, and were read by well over 60 million people.

“Nothing is as much fun as watching a game with like-minded people,” he said.

A sense of connection is key for far-flung Red Sox fans, who say it helps them experience the passion around the team from afar.

Annie Clark, a Massachusetts native who now lives in New Jersey, said perusing Twitter during a game provides her with a digital community of kindred spirits." ~ Peter Schworm

Schworm goes into statistics, but then get's a perspective from Annie Clark, who feels this sense of connection over the digital community who shares the same passion as other people she interacts with. Not only does this form of social media seem positive, it really sets a bridge between people who need connecting. The article was well organized with statistics, commentary from people, and a well-rounded filter of the importance of this connection is to avid sport fans. It is also a great time for this article to come out, since the World Series is among us all. 

P.S The Red Sox are going to win the World Series tonight! Go SOX!!!!