Social Network Analysis in Sport Research

by Marion E. Hambrick (Author)

Social network analysis is a methodological tool used to investigate social networks, or collections of individuals, groups, or organizations and their shared relationships. Sport researchers increasingly have applied social network analysis to a variety of sport contexts, from team interactions among players and coaches to tailgating among fans to mega sporting events and their organizers and other stakeholders. An opportunity now exists to expand this research and generate new insights regarding myriad sport contexts and applications. This book provides an overview of the growing body of social network analysis research in sport. Additionally, it offers practical guidance for applying social network analysis within different sport settings and for using this methodology with new research applications.

About the Author
Marion E. Hambrick is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health and Sport Sciences at the University of Louisville, USA. He teaches courses in sport finance and research methods in sport administration. His primary research interests include recreational sport participation and the use of social network analysis in sport management studies. He has published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles and case studies in academic journals such as Sport Management Review, Journal of Sport Management, International Journal of Sport Communication, Communication and Sport, and SAGE Business Cases.