Next Article in Journal
Development of Biodegradable Alginate-Based Films with Bioactive Properties and Optimal Structural Characteristics with Incorporation of Protein Hydrolysates
Previous Article in Journal
The Impact of Agricultural Employment and Technological Innovation on the Environment: Evidence from BRICS Nations Considering a Novel Environmental Sustainability Indicator
 
 
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Article

Analysis of the Relationship between the Expectations of Local Residents for the Women’s Professional Volleyball Team and Local Image, Social Overhead Capital Perception, and Local Attachment

1
Department of Human Care Lifelong Education, Daejin University, 1007 Hoguk-ro, Pocheon-si 11159, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
2
Department of Sports Marketing, Kyung Hee University, Yongin-si 17104, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
*
Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
These authors contributed equally to this work.
Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 15085; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152015085
Submission received: 18 July 2023 / Revised: 13 October 2023 / Accepted: 16 October 2023 / Published: 20 October 2023

Abstract

:
Establishing a new sports club in the local community is an important factor that can enhance the local image, develop a social infrastructure due to tourist visits, and make residents feel attached to their community. Accordingly, this study examines the relationship between local image, social overhead capital (SOC) recognition, local attachment, and the founding effects of a new women’s professional volleyball team. We analyzed 377 questionnaires using frequency analysis, correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that establishing a local women’s professional volleyball team has a statistically non-significant economic expectation effect on the local image and statistically significant cultural and public relations expectation effects on the local image, SOC perception, and local attachment. This results from an investigation into the effectiveness of the AI Peppers on the expected effects of establishing a local professional sports team. In conclusion, creating a local professional sports team can impact the expected cultural promotion effect, e.g., expanding the local community infrastructure, attracting tourists and spectators, and strengthening attachment to residents. Furthermore, it can be presented as an efficient alternative to solve the problems of the professional sports industry centered in metropolitan regions.

1. Introduction

The performance of the South Korean women’s volleyball team at the “Tokyo Olympics” in 2021 garnered deep emotions and sympathy from the people [1], even though they did not win every month. Their popularity, which recorded a myth in the semifinals, in professional volleyball increased as they continued in the V-league. In addition, the value of women’s professional volleyball has grown even more, as Yeon-kyung Kim, South Korea’s “Volleyball Empress” who is competitive with world-class skills, has recently returned to the V-league.
According to the Korea Volleyball Federation, in the first game of the 2019–2020 season, the first half of the men’s and women’s divisions sold out, and the average viewership rating of the women’s volleyball V-League in the first half of the 2021–2022 season was 1.15%. This is higher than the average viewership rating of men’s volleyball (0.71%) and shows that women’s volleyball is becoming the most popular sport, threatening not only men’s volleyball but also professional baseball in terms of viewership ratings. Furthermore, the number of spectators has gradually increased over the past five years (534,986 in the 2015–2016 season; 552,865 in the 2016–2017 season; 539,291 in the 2017–2018 season; and 614,552 in the 2018–2019 season) [2].
Therefore, in 2021, women’s professional volleyball will start the season in the same 7-team form as men’s professional volleyball by establishing a new team, Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers [3]. In modern professional sports, clubs are founded with a local connection system [4] based on local names and characteristics that are used as the official names of the clubs and are representative of the local community [5]. Thus, the establishment of sports clubs representing local communities has various effects. It not only helps to form the local foundation but also serves as an important means of enhancing the local image. The local image formed in this manner is a comprehensive result of the subjective world of mind, the experience of a specific local community [6], and the set of beliefs that a person or group has in a specific local community [7]. A positive or negative image can be obtained through the experience gained by visiting a local community, which directly affects consumer behavior, such as the intention to revisit or word-of-mouth [8]. In other words, the image of a local community is considered positive or negative based on the number of tourists visiting it. Therefore, studies have been conducted on local images in various fields. A positive image is formed by sporting events [9] and mega events [10], which confirms the research result that local image is improved by founding a club. Thus, the number of tourists visiting a local community increases when the local image changes positively due to the establishment of a club or event. However, social overhead capital (SOC) must be developed to attract tourists.
The SOC includes industrial infrastructure, transportation, sports and leisure, culture and welfare, residential environments, and various living infrastructure facilities provided by local governments [11]. This directly and indirectly impacts national economic production activities and is closely related to national and regional competitiveness and people’s lives [12]. Korea has hosted various mega-events, such as the 1986 Asian Games, 1988 Seoul Olympics, 2002 Busan Asian Games, and the 2002 FIFA World Cup. The intangible effects of enhancing the status of the event and increasing exchange opportunities also increased directly or indirectly, inducing SOC investment and improving the image of the local host, which served as an opportunity to raise their status [13]. Accordingly, local governments are making efforts to establish local sports clubs that can promote the development of the entire community and investments in SOC for the welfare of local residents [14]. Establishing a new sports team in a local community can form a sense of community through the common bond of a certain geographical community, which also helps form residents’ attachment to the local community [15].
In developed countries, where professional sports are established early, they have established themselves as sports cultures that enhance the quality of life of local residents and instill pride, identity, and attachment to the local community [16]. Furthermore, establishing local clubs through a professional sports association system to induce the community’s economic revitalization is a major means of arousing public interest [17,18]. Specifically, by establishing a sports club, residents feel attached to the community beyond the psychological intimacy they feel individually and collectively, and professional sports clubs are considered an important factor in their lives [19]. In this context, establishing a new sports club in the local community is an important factor that can enhance the local image, develop a social infrastructure due to tourist visits, and make residents feel attached to their local community. However, finding professional sports clubs in the local communities is difficult. The last Korean women’s professional volleyball team, before the 2021 women’s volleyball team, was founded in 2011, a decade ago [2]. In this situation, it is difficult to conduct research related to the founding of a professional volleyball team, and even if an effect is identified, it is vital to recheck the relationship between variables over time.
Therefore, in this study, to predict the city image and SOC recognized by local residents and their attachment to the local community felt by local residents, the establishment of a local women’s professional volleyball team was used as an antecedent variable to empirically influence this relationship. This study derives a community-connected sports profile that can attract active and voluntary participation and support from local residents. Consequently, it can be used as primary academic data to strengthen connections between professional sports and the local community continuously.

2. Theoretical Background and Hypothesis Setting

When local governments in Korea want to accept sports, the most important consideration is whether there is a direct attraction or operational effect [20]. In previous studies, the expected effects of local sports events were generally divided into economic, cultural, and public expectation effects presented as follows [21,22].

2.1. The Relationship between Economic Expectation Effect and Local Image

The economic expectation effect means that local residents perceive direct effects, such as an increase in income and employment derived from participation in local sports activities, as well as incidental ripple effects [23]. According to previous studies, the revitalization of the local economy has become a vital force in local production and consumption, changing the existing stagnant and old local image into a new and vibrant one [24], which improves the external reputation and image of the local community [25,26,27].

2.2. The Relationship between Cultural Expectation Effect and Local Image

The cultural expectation effect is the ripple effect of cultural exchanges between residents, such as viewing unique cultural events and performances following the establishment of a professional sports team [28]. This encourages local residents to actively participate in sporting events or activities [29]. In particular, various sporting events, including professional sports, serve as a medium of cultural pride for local residents, giving them a sense of belonging and identity as local residents [30], and are important for local images [31].

2.3. The Relationship between Public Relations Expectation Effect and Local Image

The public relations (PR) expectation effect occurs when local residents recognize the ripple effect of publicizing the existence of the local community by establishing a local professional sports team [23]. Previous research suggests that local publicity increases local awareness, image improvement, and social exchange [32] and argues that it can positively change the image of a local community [28]. This suggests that it is necessary to strengthen the expected effects of promoting a positive image in local communities [33].

2.4. The Relationship between Local Image Effect and Social Overhead Capital Perception

Local images are not formed in a short period of time by specific entities or subjects but are developed over a long period via continuous exchanges between the local physical and human environments [34]. Against this backdrop, the local image, a unique local asset, emerged, and it became important to express regional differentiation by establishing a local identity [35]. Previous studies have argued that for the continuous growth and development of leisure sports, it is necessary to positively recognize the local image and that SOC expansion to attract tourists is essential [36]. Additionally, to improve the local image by establishing a professional sports team related to the local, SOC establishment factors such as local characteristics, sports facilities, and the environment should be comprehensively considered [22].

2.5. The Relationship between Local Image Effect and Local Attachment

Local attachment is considered the most important factor in the lives of local residents [19] and refers to the psychological bond that local residents feel individually or collectively with the local community. In other words, by establishing professional sports clubs in the local community, local residents practice social interaction, which plays a vital role in improving their attachment to the local community and quality of life [37]. According to a previous study, the local image perceived by local residents who directly participate in sports changes into an attachment to the local community [38]; that is, the more positive the local image, the higher the attachment to the local community [39,40].

2.6. Hypothesis Setting and Research Model

We establish the following hypotheses and models based on the results of previous studies (Figure 1):
H1. 
The economic expectation effect, a sub-factor of expected effectiveness, significantly affects the local image.
H2. 
The cultural expectation effect, a sub-factor of expected effectiveness, significantly affects the local image.
H3. 
The PR expectation effect, a sub-factor of expected effectiveness, significantly affects the local image.
H4. 
The local image significantly affects SOC perception.
H5. 
The local image significantly affects local attachment.

3. Methods

3.1. Participants

This study selected local spectators who watched matches held at Pepper Stadium (Gwangju Metropolitan City Yeomju Sports Complex) on 10 and 24 February 2023, among the women’s volleyball V-League matches in the first half of the 2022–2023 season, as the sample group. Cluster random sampling was used as the sampling method for the survey subjects, and a self-administration method was used in which the respondents completed the questionnaire directly. The cluster random sampling method used in this study is a multistage sampling method in which groups are first sampled from the population, and then members are sampled from each selected group, making it easy to evaluate the characteristics of the cluster. Therefore, the survey was conducted by three surveyors with previous experience and were sufficiently trained in the survey methods. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed, and 377 questionnaires were selected and analyzed as the final valid sample after excluding 23 incomplete or insincere questionnaires (Table 1).

3.2. Measurement Tool

The expected effect of founding a new local women’s professional volleyball team to be measured in this study is based on content related to the expected effect in the economic, cultural, and PR sectors, as perceived by local residents based on sports industry policies [4,19,25,41,42]. Based on this, the questionnaire items were modified and supplemented for use and consisted of 11 questions (4 questions for the economic expectation effect, 4 for the cultural expectation effect, and 3 for the PR expectation effect). The items used to measure a local image, based on the scale developed by Nagashima [43], comprised four questions by modifying and supplementing survey items used in previous studies by Parameswaran and Pisharodi [44], Jang and Hong [45], and Park and Park [46]. The questions on SOC perception consisted of five questions modifying and supplementing the questionnaire items used in previous studies by Lee [47], Kwon [48], and Kim [49,50]. Finally, the local attachment question developed by Moore and Graefe [51] comprises four questions by modifying and supplementing the survey items used in previous studies by Williams et al. [52], Noh [53], Shin [54], Park [55], and Jeon [56]. All questions except for the participants’ general characteristics were measured using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = not at all, 5 = strongly agree).

3.3. Validity and Reliability of Measurement

Convergent validity was verified by expert groups consisting of professors (PhDs) in sports management to ensure the validity of the measurement tools (questionnaires) used in this study. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to assess discriminant validity (Table 2).
Evaluating CFA using the stable indices of CFI, NFI, TLI, RMR, and RMSEA are generally recommended, which are relatively insensitive to the sample size, model fit, and degrees of freedom [57]. In addition, Bagozzi and Dholakia [58] evaluated a good model when CFI, NFI, and TLI were 0.9 or higher, and the RMR and RMSEA were 0.08 or lower. As a result of conducting CFA on the questionnaire items, the goodness of fit of the research model was found to be CFI = 0.933, NFI = 0.900, TLI = 0.922, RMR = 0.050, and RMSEA = 0.069, indicating a relatively excellent model.
Moreover, construct reliability and average variance extracted (AVE) values were calculated to analyze the convergent validity of each variable. The analysis revealed that the concept reliability of all variables was 0.801–0.948, and AVE was 0.587–0.822, satisfying the values of conceptual reliability (CR) of 0.7 or higher and AVE of 0.5 or higher as suggested by Kim [57], indicating that each variable has convergent validity. Next, to evaluate the reliability of the scale used in this study, the internal consistency reliability analysis method using Cronbach’s α coefficient was used, and the results of the analysis using the theory of Nunnally and Bernstein [59] show that Cronbach’s α value should be 0.8 or lower.

3.4. Data Analysis Process

The questionnaire used for the final analysis resulted from data analysis using Windows PC/SPSS 26.0 and AMOS 25.0 after coding and error reviews. First, the general characteristics of the study participants were analyzed using frequency analysis. Second, CFA was performed to verify all factors, and reliability was verified by calculating Cronbach’s α coefficient to ensure internal consistency reliability. Finally, a correlation analysis was performed to analyze the relationships between the variables, and structural equation modeling was performed to derive a structural model.

4. Results

4.1. Correlation Analysis

Correlation analysis was performed to check for correlation and multicollinearity between the variables. The correlation coefficient is an index that summarizes the degree and direction of the relationship between variables in a single number and is expressed as a value between −1 and +1. As a result, the higher the value of the correlation coefficient, the higher the relationship between the two variables, causing multicollinearity problems and reducing the validity of the measurement tool. Accordingly, Challagalla and Shervani (1996) [60] called multicollinearity when one independent variable is well predicted by several other variables, and stated that this occurs when the value of the correlation coefficient is 0.8 or higher. After conducting a correlation analysis to identify this problem, it was observed that there was no multicollinearity problem, as no variables showed a correlation of more than 0.8 (Table 3).
A prior study suggested that discriminant validity could be secured if the AVE value was larger than the squared value of the correlation coefficient; the largest square value of the correlation coefficient was 0.741 (=0.549), and the smallest value of AVE was 0.587, ensuring discriminant validity [61].

4.2. Model Verification

The results of the analysis verified the suitability of the structural model established in this study, which is as follows: χ2 = 747.082, df = 241, CFI = 0.921, NFI = 0.888, TLI = 0.910, RMR = 0.056, RMSEA = 0.074 (Table 4).
The acceptance level and criteria [58] confirmed that this research model explained the research hypothesis and empirical dataset is suitable for adoption.

4.3. Hypothesis Testing

A structural equation model was analyzed to confirm the causal relationship between the research hypotheses and the variables in the research model (Table 5).
The results of the hypothesis testing analysis indicated the following: First, the path coefficient of H1 was 0.033; hence, H1 was rejected. Second, the path coefficient of H2 was 0.329 (t = 3.337, p < 0.001), thus supporting H2. Third, the path coefficient of H3 was 0.169 (t = 4.273, p < 0.001), and hence, H3 is supported. Fourth, the path coefficient of H4 was 0.383 (t = 5.277, p < 0.001), thereby supporting H4. Finally, the path coefficient of H5 is 0.282 (t = 4.795, p < 0.001), thus supporting H5.

5. Discussion

This study empirically analyzes the relationship among local image, SOC perception, and local attachment, focusing on the expected effects of local residents on the founding of a new women’s professional volleyball team. Based on the results, the following conclusions are drawn:
First, the economic expectation effect of establishing a new local women’s professional volleyball team does not have a statistically significant effect on the local image. These results are consistent with those of a study that found that holding a sporting event has an effect on economic indicators in the short term, that is, only in the year of the sporting event; however, the economic effect is not clear thereafter [62]. Therefore, it cannot positively affect the image of the region or other costs of holding a sporting event [63]. Another study reported that the economic effect on the host region is insufficient, and sporting events have a short-term economic stimulus effect; however, there is no specific vision or strategy for regional economic development [64]. These results can be attributed to the local characteristics of Gwangju. Gwangju is one of the largest areas in Honam (Jeolla Province), Korea (with a population of over 1 million). It has held various sporting events because of its early industrialization. The establishment of a new club does not have a significant impact on local image because of its economic effect.
Second, the cultural expectation effect of establishing a new local women’s professional volleyball team has a statistically significant effect on the local image. Previous studies related to this assertion assert that the cultural expectation effect of sporting events held locally can inspire and create a positive local image [33] and that the cultural expectation effect can enhance the local image [27]. In addition, one study reported that cultural factors have the greatest influence on local image among the expected effects of the economy, culture, and PRs, supporting the results of this study [28]. In other words, establishing a club in a local area means that residents, a collection of local communities, play an important role in forming a better society by creating positive interactions. As a local affiliate system, professional sports have a representative and mutual relationship with the community using the name and characteristics of the community as the official name of the club. If the image of a local area improves, then the image of the city also improves [22]. It is important to continuously manage the club to enhance the local image perceived by fans. It is believed that the city’s image will improve if grades, events, and attractions are provided.
Third, the PR expectation effect of establishing a new local women’s professional volleyball team has a statistically significant effect on the local image. These results support the results of this study by showing that the publicity of sporting events greatly contributes to the country or local image [65] and that sporting events can publicize the local community and form an image [66]. This is because when local residents are highly aware of the expected publicity effect throughout the community through sporting events, they are more likely to pass it on to other local residents. Moreover, this will lead to a situation wherein the local image will improve as residents of nearby local areas and provinces can become fans of clubs.
Fourth, the local image of a new women’s professional volleyball team had a statistically significant effect on SOC perception. In addition to research claiming that the local image and facilities improve after the construction of the base facility [67], it was revealed that hosting a sporting event improves the local image, and through this, a new SOC can be built [68]. In other words, inadequate SOC investment may hinder the growth of the local economy [69]. However, the local economy will grow as the number of visitors and travelers increases through the local image created through the establishment. To accommodate these, the expansion of SOC is essential.
Finally, the local image of establishing a new female professional volleyball team has a statistically significant effect on local attachment. This aligns with a study showing that local residents’ attachment to a place increases if they are shown the image of a developing local community and that the local image created through local cultural festivals significantly affects attachment to a place [70]; that is, the economic, cultural, and PR factors generated through establishing a club enhance the local image, and the pride achieved leads to local attachment [71]. For example, the victory of KIA Tigers, a baseball team based in Gwangju, Korea, is a matter of pride for Gwangju residents, and the victory of Lotte Giants, based in Busan, Korea, boosts Busan residents [72]. Therefore, the new team should have a mission to represent the region and develop various ways to gain the support and participation of local residents.

6. Limitations of the Research

In September 2021, this study investigated the effectiveness of a regional professional sports club’s founding expectation effect on AI PEPPERS, a female professional volleyball team founded in Gwangju Metropolitan City, South Korea. Therefore, expanding or interpreting all professional sports teams in the Republic of Korea may result in generalization errors. Therefore, in future research, there is a need to conduct continued research that expands the subject to professional sports clubs in more diverse regions.
Finally, although the expected effect of establishing a local professional sports team can be perceived differently depending on the subject’s personal characteristics, such as gender, age, and occupation, this study was not able to assess the difference in the expected effect of establishing a local professional sports team according to the personal characteristics of the research subject. Future research should provide more specific academic data if a study is conducted from a microscopic perspective, such as the differences in local residents’ perceptions regarding the expected effects of establishing a local professional sports team.

7. Conclusions

Professional sports clubs enhance the image of the city in which they are founded through the local association system. With the development of social infrastructure, the number of tourists visiting local areas has improved, leading to local revitalization and attachment to the local community. Therefore, establishing a local professional sports club has cultural and PR effects. It revitalizes the local image and forms a positive image, expands social infrastructure, attracts tourists and spectators, and enhances attachment with local residents, which is a good way to improve.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, S.-J.L. and S.-Y.L.; methodology, H.-N.K. and S.-J.L.; software, H.-N.K. and S.-J.L.; validation, S.-Y.L. and H.-N.K.; formal analysis, S.-J.L.; investigation, S.-Y.L.; data curation, S.-Y.L. and H.-N.K.; writing and original draft preparation, S.-J.L. and S.-Y.L.; writing, review, and editing, H.-N.K. and S.-Y.L.; visualization, S.-Y.L. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This study received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

Not applicable.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

  1. Yim, K.T. A Study on the Community Contributions of Professional Sports Team by Analyzing the Relationship between Regional Identity, Sense of Community, and Team Identity. Korean J. Sport Sci. 2021, 32, 586–600. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  2. Korea Volleyball Federation. Club Status; Korea Volleyball Federation: Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2023. [Google Scholar]
  3. The Hankyoreh. Available online: https://www.hani.co.kr/arti/sports/sports_general/1013376.html (accessed on 30 September 2021).
  4. Kim, C.; Yu, J.G.; Kim, E.Y. Analysis of expected effectiveness on the support for the new franchise team building. KJS 2012, 10, 101–114. [Google Scholar]
  5. Sung, S.H.; Kang, H.W. Testing the Structural Relationship among Regional attachment, Professional Sports Teams Identification and Team Loyalty—Focusing on Establishment of 2015 KT Wizs. Korea J. Sports Sci. 2015, 24, 825–835. [Google Scholar]
  6. Boulding, K.E. The Image: Knowledge in Life and Society; University of Michigan Press: Ann Arbor, MI, USA, 1956. [Google Scholar]
  7. Kotler, P. Global standardization—Courting danger. J. Consum. Mark. 1986, 3, 13–15. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  8. Nor, K.H.; Kim, C.S. A Study on the impact of the Human Service Quality of Convention on the participant’s Satisfaction and the participant’s Behavioral Intentions. KASTM 2006, 21, 125–140. [Google Scholar]
  9. Lee, D.K.; Lee, M.H. The Effects of Brand Equity on Regional Image, Attitude According to Megasport Events Service Quality. Event. Conv. Res. 2021, 17, 23–43. [Google Scholar]
  10. Kim, G.S. Effects of a Mega-event on Destination image and City Branding: The Case of the Expo 2012 Yeosu Korea. IASR 2013, 17, 143–161. [Google Scholar]
  11. Berndt, E.R.; Hansson, B. Measuring the Contribution of Public Infrastructure Capital in Sweden. Scand. J. Econ. 1992, 94, 151–168. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  12. Seitz, H. The productivity and supply of urban infrastructures. Ann. Reg. Sci. 1995, 29, 121–141. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Kim, M.K. The Effect of Residents’ Community Attachment on Perception of Mega-Event Impacts and Participation Intention in the Event. KJHA 2012, 21, 205–219. [Google Scholar]
  14. Kim, B.S.; Park, S.U.; Jeon, J.W. The relationship of holding local government sport event on city image, community sense and SOC sense of host region. Korea J. Sports Sci. 2013, 22, 281–295. [Google Scholar]
  15. Choe, I.G. The location factors of public sculptures are the city image, place attachment, Effect on behavior intention: For public sculptures installed in tourist spots in Jeollabuk-do. TMRO 2020, 24, 829–850. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  16. Dziembowska, J.; Funck, R. Cultural activities as a location factor in European competition between regions: Concepts and some evidence. Ann. Reg. Sci. 2000, 34, 1–12. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  17. Buursma, B. Some Cities Welcome a New Stadium; Chicago Tribune: Chicago, IL, USA, 1988. [Google Scholar]
  18. Simmons, D.G. Community participation in tourism planning. Tour. Manag. 1994, 15, 98–108. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  19. Kasarda, J.D.; Janowitz, M. Community attachment in mass society. Am. Sociol. Rev. 1974, 39, 328–329. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  20. Lee, Y.C.; Ryu, G.H. A Study on the Effect of Sport Spectators’ Community Sport Events. Korea J. Sports Sci. 2004, 43, 277–288. [Google Scholar]
  21. Jo, B.H. The Recent Trends in the Sport Event Tourism Research. J. Inf. Sci. 2010, 2, 293–306. [Google Scholar]
  22. Kim, M.C.; Lim, S.Y. Analysis of the Relationship between the Founding Expected Effectiveness of Local Residents on the Women’s Professional Volleyball Team, Attitude of Local Residents, Team Image, Team Support. J. Sport Leis. Stud. 2022, 90, 173–186. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  23. Kim, K.S. The Effect of Sports Event on Regional Economy: A Case of 2005 DaeKyo Nunnopi National Soccer Match for Primary School. Master’s Thesis, Gyeongju University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, 2005. [Google Scholar]
  24. Kwon, S.H. Analysis of the impact of New Skyscraper Buildings on Regional Economic Revitalization and Urban Image Improvement. Korea Real. Estate Soc. 2020, 38, 175–189. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  25. Getz, D.; Frisby, W. Evaluating Management Effectiveness in Community-Run Festivals. J. Travel. Res. 1988, 27, 22–27. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  26. Getz, D.; Page, S.J. Progress and prospects for event tourism research. Tour. Manag. 2016, 52, 593–631. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  27. Moon, K.S. The Relationships among Community Contribution of Professional Club, Club Image, Regional Image, and Club Support: A Case of Iksan City and kt-wiz. Korea J. Sports Sci. 2020, 29, 593–608. [Google Scholar]
  28. Kim, D.H.; Kim, J.K. A Study on Relationship among Community Contribution, Community Image and Re-Hosting Intention for Sports Event Depending on Hosting Sports Event. Korean Soc. For. Sport. Manag. 2014, 19, 149–160. [Google Scholar]
  29. Lee, H.H.; Chung, S.B. Relations Between Sports Events of Local Autonomous Entity and Regional Development. J. Sports Laws 2007, 10, 393–414. [Google Scholar]
  30. Choi, S.S. A Comparison of the Image of Korea as Perceived by Foreign Tourists before and after the International Trade Show. Korea Assoc. Int. Commer. Inf. 2007, 9, 467–480. [Google Scholar]
  31. Lee, K.M.; Kang, S.K. A Study on the Impact of Sports Event Tourism on Local Societies. J. Kyonggi Tour. Res. 2001, 5, 147–174. [Google Scholar]
  32. Kim, H.S. A Study on the Relationship between Community Contribution of N-League Football Team, Team Image, Region Image and Team Support—Focusing on The Gangneung City FC. Ph.D. Thesis, Honam University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea, 2018. [Google Scholar]
  33. Choi, K.H.; Hwang, O.C. The Relationship between Contribution to the Local Community, Local Image, and Support of the Local Community according to the Hosting of eSports Events. KJS 2022, 20, 305–316. [Google Scholar]
  34. Im, S.B.; Choi, H.S.; Byeon, J.S. A Study on the Analysis Method of City Image: Focusing on the Image Comparison between Cities by MDS. J. Korean Inst. Landsc. Archit. 2004, 32, 47–56. [Google Scholar]
  35. Jeon, H.Y.; Jung, J.Y. A Comparative Study on City’s Brand Image of Seoul, Tokyo, and Beijing—Through Semiotic Analyses of the Official Web-sites. KSDC 2010, 16, 277–297. [Google Scholar]
  36. Kim, C.R.; Lee, J.H. A Course Development of the Marine Leisure Sport Policy. J. Navig. Port. Res. 2008, 32, 415–423. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  37. Song, E.I. Relationship between commercial sports selection attributes of generation of recession, community attachment and leisure satisfaction. KJS 2016, 14, 245–254. [Google Scholar]
  38. Kim, H.T. The Impacts of Local Festivals and City Image on Festive Effects, Local Attachment, and Participation. Ph.D. Thesis, Gwangju University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea, 2020. [Google Scholar]
  39. Jeong, J.O.; Park, C.H.; Han, S.J. A Relation study on Festival Brand Equity, City Image, and Place Attachment: Focusing on Gangneung Coffee Festival. J. Cult. Ind. Stud. 2021, 21, 133–141. [Google Scholar]
  40. Eum, D.Y.; Park, S.Y. The Effects of Experience Factors of Regional Specialized Sports Tourism Program on City Image, Place Attachment, and Satisfaction. J. Sport Leis. Stud. 2022, 90, 186–196. [Google Scholar]
  41. Lee, S.Y. A Study on Korean Silver Sport Policy by Analyzing of the Change and Present Condition. Ph.D. Thesis, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2008. [Google Scholar]
  42. Lee, Y.C.; Kim, C.S. Effect and Evaluation on Local Festivals Stockholders. TMRO 2009, 13, 121–140. [Google Scholar]
  43. Nagashima, A. A Comparison of Japanese and US Attitudes towards Foreign Products. J. Mark. 1970, 41, 95–100. [Google Scholar]
  44. Parameswaran, R.; Pisharodi, M. Assimilation effects in country image research. Int. Mark. Rev. 2002, 19, 259–278. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  45. Jang, K.S.; Hong, K.H. The Effects of Sports Event Service Quality on the Participants’ Satisfaction, Local Image and Behavioral Intension. DJB 2009, 22, 3111–3128. [Google Scholar]
  46. Park, J.K.; Park, S.Y. Structural Relationships among Service Quality of Sports Events and Host City Image, Reputation and Revisit Intention: Revolving around Sports Events Held in Small and Medium Sized Cities. J. Sport Leis. Stud. 2015, 60, 293–304. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  47. Lee, H.Y. A Study on the Economic Change of Community through Sports Event. Master’s Thesis, Han Yang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 1997. [Google Scholar]
  48. Kwon, K.H. Local Economic Effects of Holding a Nationwide Sport Meeting. Master’s Thesis, Andong National University, Andong, Republic of Korea, 2000. [Google Scholar]
  49. Kim, M.C. Analysis between Corporation Social Responsibility through Sports and Corporation and Customer Factors. Korean J. Sport Sci. 2012, 23, 136–154. [Google Scholar]
  50. Kim, B.S. The Effect of Holding Local Government Sport Event on City Image, Community Sense and SOC Sense of Host Region. Ph.D. Thesis, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2013. [Google Scholar]
  51. Moore, R.L.; Graefe, A.R. Attachment to recreation setting: The case of rail-trail user. Leis. Sci. 1994, 16, 17–31. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  52. Williams, D.R.; Patterson, M.E.; Roggenbuck, J.W.; Watson, A.E. Beyond the commodity metaphor: Examining emotional and symbolic attachment to place. Leis. Sci. 1992, 14, 29–46. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  53. Roh, Y.G. The Impact of Community Attachment on the Attitudes toward Festival: The Case of Cheongdo Bullfighting Festival Area. Ph.D. Thesis, Daegu University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea, 2007. [Google Scholar]
  54. Shin, H.S. A Study on the Storytelling of Local Festival Effect to Local Brand Equity. Ph.D. Thesis, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea, 2012. [Google Scholar]
  55. Park, J.B. The Effect of Local Festival Brand Equity on Performance, Local Community Attachment and Local Community Competitiveness: A Comparison of Different Festival Management Types. Ph.D. Thesis, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea, 2015. [Google Scholar]
  56. Jeon, D.H. A Study on the Effects of Local Residents’ Recognition of Festival Brand Assets on Urban Regeneration Performance, Urban Image and Place Attachment. Ph.D. Thesis, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea, 2019. [Google Scholar]
  57. Kim, K.S. Potential Growth Modeling and Structural Equation Model Analysis; Hannah: Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2017. [Google Scholar]
  58. Bagozzi, R.P.; Dholakia, U.M. Intentional social action in virtual communities. J. Interact. Mark. 2002, 16, 2–21. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  59. Nunnally, J.C.; Bernstein, I.H. Psychological Theory; McGraw-Hill: New York, NY, USA, 1994. [Google Scholar]
  60. Challagalla, G.N.; Shervani, T.A. Dimensions and types of supervisory control: Effects on salesperson performance and satisfaction. J. Mark. 1996, 60, 89–105. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  61. Fornell, C.; Larcker, D.F. Structural Equation Models with Unobservable Variables and Measurement Error: Algebra and Statistics. J. Mark. Res. 1981, 18, 382–388. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  62. Han, J.Y.; Kim, M.C. The Local Economy Effect of Before and After Mega Sports Event: Focused on 2002 Busan, 2003 Daegue, 2015 Kwangju. Korean Soc. Sport Manag. 2012, 17, 21–34. [Google Scholar]
  63. Gratton, C.; Shibli, S.; Coleman, R. The economic impact of major sports event: A review of ten events in the UK. Sociol. Rev. 2006, 54, 41–58. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  64. Chung, H.J. Sports mega-events and economic impact: Reconstruction of ‘invented truth’. Korea J. Sports Sci. 2008, 21, 229–251. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  65. Yu, J.G.; Wang, S.W.; Shin, D.G. An Effect of City Marketing on the Mega Sports Event Venues. Korean Soc. Sport Manag. 2010, 15, 63–77. [Google Scholar]
  66. Kim, B.S.; Kim, S.K. The Relationship between Mega Sport Event Inducement and Ripple Effect to Community. Korea J. Sports Sci. 2008, 17, 473–483. [Google Scholar]
  67. Seo, K.Y.; Park, J.A. Analysis of Regional Image Change and Facility Effect Before and After Establishment of Urban Regeneration Base Facility: Focused on the Platform Changdong 61. Seoul Inst. 2018, 19, 1–19. [Google Scholar]
  68. Jung, K.H. The Plan of Using Event to Promote Local Community. Korean Soc. Sport. Manag. 2000, 5, 121–135. [Google Scholar]
  69. Yoon, G.S. A Study on the Market of Financial Investor in SOC. Master’s Thesis, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2005. [Google Scholar]
  70. Bae, B.O.; Jung, S.A. Relationship between Tourism Preparedness, Regional Image, and Regional Attachment: Focused on Iksan, Jeollabukdo. NATR 2020, 16, 127–149. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  71. Kwon, W. Mediation Effect of Local Pride between Topophilia and Team Identification: In the Context of Professional Baseball. Korean J. Phys. Educ. 2015, 54, 275–287. [Google Scholar]
  72. Choi, H.J. The Effect of Franchise Relocation on Regional Fans’ Team Identification and Spectator Behavior: Focused on Lotte Giants Case. Master’s Thesis, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 2014. [Google Scholar]
Figure 1. Research model.
Figure 1. Research model.
Sustainability 15 15085 g001
Table 1. Demographic characteristics of participants.
Table 1. Demographic characteristics of participants.
VariablesClassificationFrequency (n)Percentage (%)
gendermale19050.4
female18749.6
age20 s19351.2
30 s7720.4
over 40 s10728.4
watching a
local sporting
events
(yearly)
once-2 times9625.5
3–4 times10728.4
5–6 times7118.8
more than 7 times 10327.3
Total 377100
Table 2. Confirmatory factor analysis.
Table 2. Confirmatory factor analysis.
VariablesFactorsSCSEtC.RAVECronbach’s α
economic
expectation
effect
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps local industry development.0.785--
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps attract investment in local industries.0.8070.05416.5460.8860.6600.865
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps revitalize the local economy.0.7710.06615.672
Establishing the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps increase local residents’ income.0.8040.04816.451
cultural
expectation
effect
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps the cultural life of local residents.0.720--0.8640.6150.830
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps revitalize local residents’ sports culture.0.7630.07613.899
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps revitalize the local cultural industry.0.8320.07115.005
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team raises the cultural level of local residents.0.6840.07712.480
PR
expectation
effect
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps increase local awareness.0.899--
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps increase the local brand.0.8830.05618.6520.8010.5870.758
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps to increase the reputation of the local community.0.5030.07910.006
local
image
The level of education in the local community where I live is relatively high0.855--0.9480.8220.876
The level of medical service in the local community where I live is relatively high.0.9140.04423.287
The unique cultural assets of the local community where I live are well preserved.0.8470.04621.003
The local community where I live has high potential
for future development.
0.6570.07114.201
SOC
perception
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps build local infrastructure facility maintenance.0.820--
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps expand the local road and transportation network.0.8530.06219.522
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps increase local sports facilities.0.9010.05321.0460.9480.788
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team is helpful for the development of information and communication in the local.0.8190.04818.3900.927
The establishment of the Pepper Savings Bank AI Peppers professional volleyball team helps improve the local infrastructure environment.0.8170.04618.339
local
attachment
The community where I live is an important part of my life.0.847--0.9060.7120.866
The local community where I live is the best place.0.9110.05021.723
I’m proud of the local community where I live.0.8260.04719.281
I’m familiar with the local community where I live.0.5800.05711.900
χ2 = 655.271 (df = 236, p = 0.000), CFI = 0.933, NFI = 0.900, TLI = 0.922, RMR = 0.050, and RMSEA = 0.069.
Table 3. Correlation analysis.
Table 3. Correlation analysis.
Variables123456AVE
economic expectation effect 11 0.660
cultural expectation effect 20.741 **
(0.549)
1 0.615
PR expectation effect 30.548 **
(0.300)
0.550 **
(0.303)
1 0.587
local image 40.224 **
(0.050)
0.173
(0.030) **
0.175 **
(0.031)
1 0.882
SOC perception ⁵0.501 **
(0.251)
0.559 **
(0.312)
0.468
(0.219) **
0.283 **
(0.080)
1 0.788
local attachment 60.220 **
(0.048)
0.154 **
(0.024)
0.189 **
(0.036)
0.429 **
(0.184)
0.247 **
(0.061)
10.712
** p < 0.01, ( ) is the square value of the correlation coefficient, and the shaded part is the AVE. 1: economic expectation effect; 2: cultural expectation effect; 3: PR expectation effect; 4: local image; 5: SOC perception; 6: local attachment.
Table 4. Fit index of the research model.
Table 4. Fit index of the research model.
A Constructχ2dfpCFINFITLIRMRRMSEA
acceptance level747.0822410.0000.9210.8880.9100.0560.074
acceptance criteria---more than
0.8~0.9
more than
0.8~0.9
more than
0.8~0.9
less than
0.05~0.08
less than
0.05~0.08
Table 5. Hypothesis testing result.
Table 5. Hypothesis testing result.
HPathSECRpAccept
/Reject
H1 economic expectation effect → local image0.0330.0770.4350.665Reject
H2 cultural expectation effect → local image0.3290.0973.3770.000 ***Accept
H3 PR expectation effect → local image0.1690.0394.2730.000 ***Accept
H4 local image → SOC perception0.3830.0725.2770.000 ***Accept
H5 local image → local attachment0.2820.0594.7950.000 ***Accept
*** p < 0.001.
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Kim, H.-N.; Lim, S.-J.; Lim, S.-Y. Analysis of the Relationship between the Expectations of Local Residents for the Women’s Professional Volleyball Team and Local Image, Social Overhead Capital Perception, and Local Attachment. Sustainability 2023, 15, 15085. https://doi.org/10.3390/su152015085

AMA Style

Kim H-N, Lim S-J, Lim S-Y. Analysis of the Relationship between the Expectations of Local Residents for the Women’s Professional Volleyball Team and Local Image, Social Overhead Capital Perception, and Local Attachment. Sustainability. 2023; 15(20):15085. https://doi.org/10.3390/su152015085

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kim, Hu-Nyun, Seung-Jae Lim, and Sun-Young Lim. 2023. "Analysis of the Relationship between the Expectations of Local Residents for the Women’s Professional Volleyball Team and Local Image, Social Overhead Capital Perception, and Local Attachment" Sustainability 15, no. 20: 15085. https://doi.org/10.3390/su152015085

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop