3/26: Race Impacts Decision Not to Pay College Athletes, Say More than Three in Ten
March 25, 2014 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Special Events, Sports, Sports Bench
Despite the money top college men’s basketball and football programs generate, college athletes are not paid, and 31% of Americans believe there is some truth to the argument that this is because many student athletes are African American. This includes 4% who believe there is a lot of credence to that claim and 27% who say there is probably some legitimacy to it. 17% report there is not very much truth in it, and a majority — 53% — says the argument that race plays into the decision not to pay college athletes is false. Similar proportions of college sports fans share these views.
This HBO Real Sports/Marist Poll has been conducted in conjunction with the Marist College Center for Sports Communication
Click Here for Complete March 26, 2014 USA HBO Real Sports/Marist Poll Release and Tables
“When the majority of revenue generating college athletes are unpaid African-American players and the majority of coaches are often white and well compensated, it almost compels the public to raise the question of race,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “It is a complex issue. While sports often act as a true melting pot, it feels less apparent when financial compensation in college sports doesn’t reflect that ideal.”
Race matters. More than six in ten African Americans — 61% — think top college athletes are unpaid because many of these athletes are African American. About one-third of Latinos — 33% — and one in four whites — 25% — agree. Looking at income, Americans who earn less than $50,000 annually — 38% — are more likely to say race factors into the decision to pay college athletes. This compares with 24% of those who make $50,000 or more. Women — 34% — are also more likely than men — 27% — to think there is some truth to the argument that race plays a role in determining whether or not college athletes are paid.
Looking at age, adults under thirty years old — 38% — are more likely to say there is some accuracy in the claim that top college athletes are not compensated because of race than are residents who are older. 29% of those 30 to 44, 25% of Americans 45 to 59, and 33% of those 60 and older share the view that race is a factor.
Do Americans think college athletes should be paid for their time practicing, travelling, and playing on the team? 67% do not think they should be monetarily compensated. 29% think they should be, and 4% are unsure. The views of college sports fans reflect the opinions of residents, overall.
While more than seven in ten whites — 72% — and Latinos — 71% — think college athletes should not be paid, a majority of African Americans — 53% — believe college athletes should be compensated for their time. Men — 35% — are more likely than women — 24% — to say student athletes should be paid.
If college athletes were paid a salary, nearly three in four U.S. residents — 73% — say it would make no difference in how much they enjoy watching college sports. 23% think it would make watching the games less entertaining while only 4% say it would increase their enjoyment. Among college sports fans, 68% believe it would make no difference in their enjoyment while 27% think it would take something away from the pleasure they get from watching college sports. Five percent think it would increase their enjoyment.
Table: Truth in Argument that Top College Athletes are not Paid Because Many are African American
Table: Should Top College Athletes be Paid?
Table: Amount of Enjoyment Watching College Sports if College Athletes were Paid
To Unionize or Not to Unionize?
75% of Americans, including the same proportion of college sports fans, think college athletes should not be allowed to join a union since they are not college employees. More than one in five — 22% — believes student athletes should be able to join a union so they can receive payments and benefits. Four percent are unsure.
Non-white residents — 28% — are more likely to support unionizing by college residents than white residents — 19%. Nearly eight in ten white residents — 78% — compared with 67% of non-white Americans believe college athletes should not be able to join a union.
When it comes to special treatment by local authorities, about two-thirds of adults nationally — 66% — think top college athletes receive special treatment by town police in their college community. One in four — 25% — reports student athletes are treated the same as their fellow students, and 9% are unsure. Similar proportions of college sports fans share these views.
Table: Should College Athletes be Allowed to Unionize?
Table: Do Top College Athletes Receive Special Treatment?
Overemphasis Placed on College Sports, Say More than Six in Ten
61% of Americans think college and universities with top men’s football and basketball programs put too much emphasis on athletics over academics. 34%, however, say these schools strike a good balance between education and sports. Five percent are unsure. The views of college sports fans reflect those of U.S. residents.
While older Americans are more likely to think colleges put too much emphasis on athletics, majorities in all age groups agree. 54% of those 18 to 29, 59% of residents 30 to 44, 61% of Americans 45 to 59, and 67% of those 60 and older say too much importance is put on sports. Regardless of region, at least a majority of adults say colleges prioritize athletics over academics. However, those in the Northeast — 63%, Midwest — 63%, and South — 61% — are slightly more likely than those in the West — 55% — to believe this to be the case.
What is more important to Americans? Most — 90% — care more about the academic reputation of their local colleges and universities. Just 7% are more concerned with the athletic success of their local schools, and 3% are unsure.
Table: Do Colleges Put Too Much Emphasis on Athletics over Academics?
Table: Do You Care More about Athletic Success or the Reputation of College or University?
Bracket Bragging Rights?
While 85% of Americans do not fill out a March Madness bracket, 15% say they do. Of residents who fill out a bracket, most — 91% — do so just for fun. Five percent fill out a bracket both for fun and for money. Three percent play for the money, and 1% is unsure.
Not surprisingly, college sports fans are more likely to try to predict the winner of the NCAA Men’s College basketball tournament. 22% of college sports fans say they put together a bracket while 78% don’t participate. Income matters. More than one in five Americans who earn $50,000 or more — 21% — fills out a bracket. This compares with only 8% who make less annually. Men — 23% — are more than three times as likely as women — 7% — to make their picks.
Do Americans bet on college sports? 88% of residents report they have not placed a wager on college sports in the past year. 12%, however, say they have. College sports fans are slightly more likely to bet on college sports. 17% of fans have done so in the past year while 83% have not.
And, when it comes to the number of college sports fans, about two-thirds of Americans — 66% — say they follow college sports at least a little bit. This includes 12% who watch these sports a great deal, 18% who follow them a good amount, and 36% who catch a small amount of the games. 34% do not follow college sports at all.
Table: Have You Bet on College Sports in the Past Year?
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Keith Strudler, Ph.D., is the director for the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sports and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
1/22: Marijuana Use in Pro-Sports: Keep it Banned, Say More than Six in Ten
January 21, 2014 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Special Events, Sports, Sports Bench
Many Americans, including more than six in ten sports fans, think marijuana should continue to be banned in professional sports, regardless of state or federal laws which have legalized the substance. 62% of adults nationally believe the ban should stay in place. 36% of Americans think the ban on marijuana should be lifted, and 2% are unsure. Similar proportions of sports fans share these views.
This HBO Real Sports/Marist Poll has been conducted in conjunction with the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. The current edition of HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel explores the use of marijuana in the NFL. The program replays multiple times on HBO and will also be available on HBO ON DEMAND and HBO GO.
Click Here for Complete January 22, 2014 USA HBO Real Sports/Marist Poll Release and Tables
There are age and gender differences. Older Americans are more likely than younger residents to say that marijuana should be banned. Seven in ten adults 60 and older — 70% — think marijuana should not be allowed for professional athletes. This compares with 65% of those 45 to 59, 57% of residents 30 to 44, and 51% of Americans under 30. Looking at gender, women — 67% — are more likely than men — 57% — to think marijuana should be off limits for professional athletes.
“While marijuana is banned in the NFL, players tell Real Sports it is widely used, and for reasons that many might not expect,” says Joe Perskie, Senior Producer for HBO’s Real Sports.
Does marijuana use by professional athletes to relieve pain and anxiety trump its negative effects on performance? Nearly two-thirds of Americans — 64% — say professional athletes should not be allowed to use the drug because of the negative effects it has on their game. 34%, however, believe they should be permitted to use the drug for medicinal purposes, and 3% are unsure. The views of sports fans are in line with the overall population.
“Americans hold professional athletes to very high standards. Smoking marijuana, even if legal, would likely shatter the image of excellence we demand from our sports heroes,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “In the end, we expect professional athletes to do three things: make physical sacrifice, care deeply about winning, and be role models for kids.”
Again, there are differences by age. Americans under thirty — 55% — are more likely to say athletes should be allowed to use marijuana for medicinal purposes. This compares with just 39% of residents 30 to 44 years old, 30% of those 45 to 59, and 23% of Americans 60 and older.
Table: Should Marijuana Continue to be a Banned Substance, Regardless of Federal or State Laws?
Table: Should Marijuana Use in Pro-sports be Allowed to Relieve Pain and Anxiety?
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Keith Strudler, Ph.D., is the director for the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sports and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
12/17: Boston Marathon Bombing, 2013 Sports Event Most Remembered
December 17, 2013 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Special Events, Sports, Sports Bench
Many memorable sports stories marked 2013, but for more than seven in ten sports fans nationally, the bombing at the Boston Marathon is the most notable. 71% of sports fans have this view. This compares with 14% who think the NFL concussion settlement was the most significant. Seven percent report baseball’s Biogenesis drug scandal had the largest effect while an additional 7% say the hazing scandal involving the Miami Dolphins had the biggest impact on sports in 2013. One percent is unsure.
Regardless of age, race, region, income, level of education, and gender, the deadly attack at the Boston Marathon is thought to be the event that resonated the most in the sports world and beyond.
Click Here for Complete December 17, 2013 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables
This Marist Poll is done in conjunction with The Marist College Center for Sports Communication.
“While stories like the concussion settlement and Biogenesis scandal were important in the context of their sports, the marathon tragedy went further to impact the national conversation, even for those with little or no interest in the event itself,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “The Boston Marathon both vastly impacted and transcended sport at the same time.”
Table: Story with the Biggest Impact on Sports in 2013
Iron Bowl and BoSox Vie for Title of 2013’s Best Cinderella Story
The matchup between the University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide and the Auburn Tigers is one of college sports’ most heralded rivalries. When the Tigers returned the Crimson Tide’s missed field goal at the end of the game, resulting in an upset victory for Auburn, it went down in the books for 36% of sports fans as the Cinderella story of 2013. However, about one-third of sports fans — 33% — disagree and give that title to the Boston Red Sox’s ascent from the worst team in baseball to World Series Champions. Nearly one in five sports fans — 18% — think the Pittsburgh Pirates making Major League Baseball’s playoffs for the first time in 21 years is the greatest underdog story of the year. This compares with 11% who report the most unexpected sports outcome was Florida Gulf Coast making the Sweet 16 of the men’s NCAA basketball tournament. Three percent are unsure.
There are regional, racial, and gender differences. While a plurality of fans in the Northeast — 38% — think the Red Sox season is the biggest Cinderella story of the year, a plurality of those in the South — 45% — believe Auburn’s upset victory deserves the title. 40% of sports fans in the West say the Red Sox story outdoes the Auburn victory. 35% think the opposite is true. In the Midwest, 36% cite Auburn’s win as the biggest sports surprise. This compares with 30% who believe the Red Sox turnaround is the most unexpected sports story of 2013.
Looking at race, 40% of white sports fans think Auburn’s upset victory is the best Cinderella story of 2013. This compares with 38% of non-white fans who say the Boston Red Sox climb from last to champs is the biggest upset of the year. A gender divide also exists. 38% of men say the outcome of the Iron Bowl trumps the year’s other major sports fairytales, and 30% point to the BoSox. However, women divide. 36% say the Red Sox season is the best Cinderella story of the year compared with 33% who say Auburn’s win takes the top spot.
Table: Best Cinderella Story of 2013
Big Papi’s MVP Title and the Heat’s Winning Streak Top Sports Accomplishments
Which sports accomplishment do fans consider to be the best in 2013? Nearly three in ten — 29% — say the Red Sox’s David Ortiz winning the World Series MVP is the best. The Miami Heat’s 27-game winning streak follows closely behind with 28%. One in five — 20% — reports NASCAR’s Jimmie Johnson winning his sixth Sprint Cup Championship takes top honors while 16% say Tiger Woods ranking as the number one golfer in the world is the biggest sports accomplishment of 2013. Seven percent are unsure.
Age differences exist. 39% of those under thirty believe the Heat’s winning streak was the biggest accomplishment of the year. The same proportion of those 30 to 44 — 39% — agree. However, among fans 45 to 59, 35% say David Ortiz’s MVP title is the biggest sports accomplishment of 2013. There is no consensus among those 60 and older. One in four — 25% — cites David Ortiz being named World Series MVP. This compares with 21% who mention the Heat’s winning streak, 20% who say Jimmie Johnson’s sixth Sprint Cup victory, and 20% who cite Tiger Woods’ number-one ranking.
Table: Single Best Sports Accomplishment of 2013
Peyton Manning Named Most Influential Athlete for Second Year
A majority of sports fans nationally — 55% — say Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning is the player who has had the biggest impact on his sport in 2013. This is the second year in which Manning has received this title. Miami Heat power forward LeBron James is considered by 20% to be the player who had the biggest impact on the NBA. 11% believe tennis great Serena Williams was the most influential on her sport while 10% report Detroit TigersMiguel Cabrera had the biggest impact on his sport this year. Five percent are unsure.
Just how many Americans are sports fans? A majority — 55% — are while 45% say they are not.
Table: Player with the Biggest Impact on Their Sport in 2013
10/23: Youth Football Takes Hard Hit… One-Third of Americans Less Likely to Allow Son to Play Football because of Head Injury Risk
October 22, 2013 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Football, Sports, Sports Bench
Most Americans are aware of the connection between concussions suffered while playing football and long-term brain injury, and that information would influence some Americans’ decision to allow their son to play the sport if they had to make the choice. About one in three Americans say this knowledge would make them less likely to allow a son to participate in the game. In fact, nearly one in five Americans say this risk would be the key factor in deciding whether or not they would allow their son to step onto the gridiron. About one-third of Americans has become more concerned because of the link between concussions suffered while playing football and long-term brain injury.
This HBO Real Sports/Marist Poll has been conducted in conjunction with the Marist College Center for Sports Communication.
Click Here for Complete October 23, 2013 USA HBO Real Sports/Marist Poll Release and Tables
“Historically, youth football has fueled the NFL,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “Parents’ concern about the safety of the game could jeopardize the future of the sport.”
Most U.S. adults — 86% — have heard at least a little about the connection between concussions inflicted while on the football field and long-term brain injury. This includes 55% who have heard either a great deal or good amount and 31% who have heard a little about this link. 14% have heard nothing at all about it.
Awareness varies based upon a family’s income. While about two-thirds of Americans who earn $50,000 or more annually — 66% — have heard a great deal or a good amount about the issue, 47% of those who earn less say the same. There are also differences based on education. While 63% of college graduates have heard a great deal or a good amount about the link between these head injuries and long-term brain trauma, 50% of those without a college degree are comparably aware.
33% of Americans say the link between head injuries in football and long-term brain trauma would make them less likely to allow their son to play football if they had to make that choice. Only 7% report it would make them more likely to do so, and 60% say it would make no difference to their decision. Just how many Americans would ultimately allow their son to play the game? 85% would while a notable 13% would not. Two percent are unsure.
For almost one in five Americans — 16%, the risk of long-term brain injury due to youth football participation would be the deciding factor in whether or not to allow their son to play football. And, a majority of U.S. adults — 56% — say it would be one of the factors that influences their decision. 28% report this information would play no role at all in making that choice.
Nearly four in ten U.S. residents — 39% — report the recent information about long-term brain injury as a result of concussions incurred while playing football hasn’t changed their level of concern about the game. However, 32% say it has made them more concerned because of the serious risk of long-term brain injury while 30% report it has made them less concerned because coaches, parents, and players are more informed and can take greater precautions.
Table: Allow Son to Play Football (U.S. Adults)
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Seven in ten Americans — 70% — think the benefits of playing football outweigh the risk of injury. However, about one in four — 24% — believe the risk of injury is too high. Seven percent are unsure.
A similar proportion of adults nationally — 74% — think playing football is a good way to build character and boys should be encouraged to play the game. However, one in five — 20% — say the risk of injury is too high to allow boys to play football. Six percent are unsure.
“What will be interesting to watch is if other sports begin to recruit those kids whose parents keep them from football,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “Football’s loss could be the inevitable gain of lacrosse, baseball, or even soccer.”
Table: Do the Benefits of Football Outweigh Risk of Injury? (U.S. Adults)
Table: Is Football a Good Way to Build Character or is the Risk of Injury Too High (U.S. Adults)
More Than One in Ten Fans Less Likely to Enjoy Game
The recent information about the link between concussions suffered while playing football and long-term brain injury makes watching the sport less enjoyable for a notable 14% of football fans. Only 2% report it makes the game more enjoyable to watch, and 84% say it makes no difference to their viewing pleasure.
In their own communities, how big of a deal is football? Nearly seven in ten Americans — 69% — report a lot of people follow and talk about the sport. One in four — 25% — say some people are engaged in the game. Only 7% do not follow or talk about football.
Table: Has Enjoyment of Football Changed because of Link to Injury? (Fans Nationally)
Table: Community Interest in Football (U.S. Adults)
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Keith Strudler, Ph.D., is the director for the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sports and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
7/23: More Than Six in Ten Fans Believe Connection to Biogenesis Steroid Clinic Too Little to Justify MLB Suspensions
July 23, 2013 by Marist Poll
Filed under Baseball, Featured, Sports, Sports Bench
An investigation by Major League Baseball is underway to determine whether or not to suspend players associated with the Miami-based clinic, Biogenesis, that provided performance enhancing drugs to other players. But, a majority of baseball fans nationally do not think that an association with the clinic is enough to warrant disciplinary action. 61% of fans say it is not right for the MLB to suspend players who did not test positive for performance-enhancing drugs but are connected to the Biogenesis clinic. 28% think it is right for the players to be suspended, and 11% are unsure.
Click Here for Complete July 23, 2013 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables
“Sports fans are very loyal to their favorite athletes, and for most, it would take true hard evidence to change their perceptions of these athletes,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “Circumstantial evidence, no matter how strong, probably isn’t going to convince most fans.”
The poll was conducted prior to the suspension of Milwaukee Brewers’ Ryan Braun yesterday. At this point, few fans know a lot about the scandal. Just 24% say they have heard either a great deal — 13% — or a good amount — 11% — about MLB players and the Biogenesis clinic. 26%, have heard a little and 50% know nothing at all about it.
This Marist Poll has been done in conjunction with The Marist College Center for Sports Communication.
Table: Right or Not Right for MLB to Suspend Players Connected to Miami Clinic?
Table: Awareness of MLB Players and Biogenesis Clinic
The Great Hall of Fame Steroid Debate
More than three in four baseball fans — 78% — think players who have used steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs should not be eligible for the Hall of Fame. 18% think these players should be, and 4% are unsure.
“When it’s proven that an athlete cheated, most sports fans aren’t just upset, they often feel betrayed,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “They seem to show unusual disdain towards their former heroes, refusing them the ultimate reward of entering the Hall of Fame.”
Time has not healed all wounds. When Marist last reported this question in April 2009, 70% of baseball fans thought players who used steroids should not be admitted to the Hall of Fame. 24% believed they should be given this honor, and 6%, at the time, were unsure.
There are age differences. Fans under 45 years old are more forgiving than those who are older. 24% of younger fans think steroid use should not keep players from the Hall of Fame. 13% of those 45 and older share this view.
Table: Steroid Use and the Hall of Fame
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Keith Strudler, Ph.D., is the director for the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sports and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
3/27: A Day at the Ballpark? MLB Games a No-Go for a Majority of Fans
March 27, 2013 by Marist Poll
Filed under Baseball, Featured, Sports, Sports Bench
Major League Baseball’s Opening Day is almost here, but baseball fans nationally may not be flocking to the field. According to this Marist Poll, 54% of fans did not attend any games last year and do not plan to attend any games this year. 28% say they will venture out to the ballpark about the same amount as they did last year while 13% believe they will attend more games than last season. Six percent report they will go to fewer games than last season.
Click Here for Complete March 27, 2013 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables
Little has changed on this question since last year. At that time, 53% of baseball fans said they were not planning to attend to any MLB games nor did they attend any games the season before. 31% reported they would go to the same amount of games as they had previously while one in ten — 10% — thought they would go to more baseball games. Six percent believed they would attend fewer games.
Of note regionally, on the heels of the San Francisco Giants’ World Series victory and off-season acquisitions by other Pacific Coast teams, a majority of baseball fans in the West — 53% — plan to attend at least the same number of games they did last year. Included here, are 20% who say they will take more trips to the ballpark and 33% who think their attendance will be about the same as last season.
Ticket prices could play a role. 52% of fans nationally do not think the cost of an MLB ticket is a good value for the money. 37% believe the experience is a good value for the price, and 11% are unsure. Last year, 56% of fans did not think they got a good bang for their ticket buck while 34% reported admission prices were a good value. 10% were unsure.
While fans in the Northeast remain the most dissatisfied with ticket prices, fewer have this opinion. More than six in ten baseball fans in this region — 63% — do not think the price of an MLB ticket is a good value. This compares with 73% who had this view last year. In the Midwest, a majority of fans — 55% — say the experience is not worth the cost of a ticket. 47% of fans in the South and 45% of those in the West share this view. Last year, 55% of Midwest fans, 52% of those in the South, and 47% of fans in the West did not think the ticket price for a Major League Baseball game was a good value for the money.
But, there is some good news for America’s pastime, there has been a bump in the proportion of baseball fans nationwide. 56% of adults watch professional baseball, at least, a little. This includes 9% who watch a great deal of the sport, 10% who follow a good amount of it, and 37% who watch a little baseball. 45% do not watch any of the game. When Marist last reported this question, half of adults — 50% — reported they were baseball fans.
Table: More or Less Games than Last Year
3/26: Many Fans Think College Sports Programs Break NCAA Rules…Education Should be a Priority, Say Most
March 26, 2013 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Special Events, Sports, Sports Bench
March Madness is in full swing, and with all eyes on the road to the Final Four, sports fans nationwide are weighing in on the nature of college sports.
Click Here for Complete March 26, 2013 USA Poll Release and Tables
More than two-thirds of sports fans nationally — 67% — think it is common practice for college sports programs to break NCAA rules when recruiting and training college athletes. 26% believe the rules are not broken often, and 7% are unsure.
This Marist Poll has been done in conjunction with The Marist College Center for Sports Communication.
There has been an increase in the proportion of sports fans nationally who say college athletic programs cross the line in their recruiting and training programs. When Marist last reported this question in March of 2012, 55% said it is common for college sports officials to break the NCAA rules. 35% disagreed, and 10% were unsure.
Should the business of college sports trump education? Overwhelmingly, most sports fans say, “no.” 95% of fans believe college athletes should be required to attend class and focus on their studies while just 5% of fans say college sports has become a business, and student athletes should focus on training and not be required to go to class.
“Most sports fans still enjoy the notion of amateurism in college athletics,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “They largely don’t want college athletes paid beyond a scholarship, and they overwhelmingly want them to attend classes like other students.”
Table: College Sports’ Programs Recruiting Practices
Table: The Business of College Sports
Show Them the Money?
What is the appropriate compensation for top college athletes? More than seven in ten sports fans — 72% — think these athletes should only receive a scholarship. 21% believe they deserve a scholarship and a salary while 6% say they should neither receive a scholarship nor a salary.
In last year’s survey, 68% of sports fans reported a scholarship sufficed. 27% said a scholarship plus a salary was the appropriate compensation while 5% thought these athletes should neither receive a scholarship nor a salary.
What about the salaries for college coaches in top sports programs? A slim majority of sports fans — 51% — say they should be paid less than coaches in professional sports programs. 45% say college coaches should be paid about the same amount as professional coaches while 3% think they should be paid more.
There is increasing support for top college coaches to receive the same pay as their professional counterparts. In March of 2012, nearly six in ten sports fans — 57% — thought college coaches should be paid less. 39% said they should receive about the same salary as professional coaches, and 4% believed they should be paid more than professional coaches.
Table: Compensation for Top College Athletes
Table: Salaries for Coaches of Top College Sports’ Programs
T-R-O-U-B-L-E…Playing the Blame Game
When college athletes get into trouble, who should be held most responsible? Seven in ten sports fans nationally — 70% — think the athletes should take the blame. 16% say their coaches should be held accountable, and 12% say college presidents and the school’s administration should take the heat. Three percent are unsure.
Just how many Americans are sports fans? 62% of adults are while 38% are not. Little has changed on this question since Marist last reported it in December. At that time, 60% of residents considered themselves to be a sports fan while 40% said they were not.
Table: Who’s Responsible When College Athletes Get into Trouble?
Nothing But Net…Number of NCAA Men’s Teams on the Mark, Say More Than Three in Four
77% of college basketball fans think the number of teams in the NCAA men’s tournament is about right. One in five — 20% — say the 68 teams are too many while just 3% say the number is too few.
Similar proportions of college basketball fans held these views last March when 78% said the number of teams was appropriate. 18% believed there were too many, and 4% believed there were too few.
Nearly half of adults nationally — 48% — follow college basketball, at least, some of the time. Included here are 30% who check out the sport a little, 10% who watch a good amount of it, and 8% who follow a great deal of it. 51% do not watch college basketball at all.
There has been a slight bump in the proportion of college basketball fans. In March of 2012, 43% reported following the sport, at least, a little bit. 56%, at that time, said they did not watch college basketball at all.
Table: Number of Teams in NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament
Table: College Basketball Fans Nationally
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Keith Strudler, Ph.D., is the director for the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sports and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
12/27: Phelps’ Olympic Medal Record Biggest Accomplishment in Sports This Year
December 27, 2012 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Special Events, Sports, Sports Bench
Months removed from the London Olympics, stories from the games top the list of 2012’s biggest accomplishments in sports. Among sports fans nationally, 28% consider Michael Phelps breaking the Olympic medal record to be the single best sports accomplishment of the year. The gold medal win by the U.S. women’s gymnastics team tumbled into the hearts of 23% of U.S. sports fans. 13% believe Notre Dame’s football team played like champions during their undefeated regular season while the third consecutive gold medal for the U.S. women’s soccer team is deemed the biggest sports accomplishment by 12%. However, 11% think Drew Brees’ record for consecutive games with a touchdown pass trumped sports while 10% of U.S. sports fans say the Triple Crown win by the Detroit Tigers’ Miguel Cabrera was a home run this year. Three percent are unsure.
This Marist Poll has been done in conjunction with The Marist College Center for Sports Communication.
Click Here for Complete December 27, 2012 Poll Release and Tables
“The results remind us that Olympic accomplishments carry enormous weight with the American public,”says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “They also highlight Michael Phelps’ place among the hierarchy of American sports greats.”
Men and women differ on this question. While 31% of men think Phelps breaking the Olympic medal record deserves the title of single best sports accomplishment of 2012, 33% of women say the gold medal win by the U.S. women’s gymnastics team takes the crown.
Table: Single Best Sports Accomplishment of 2012
Touchdown! Big Blue’s Super Bowl Win Scores as Best Sports Championship
When it comes to the best sports championship of 2012, the Super Bowl victory by the New York Giants is tops. 36% of U.S. sports fans have this view. 17%, however, believe the World Series win by the San Francisco Giants deserves the honor. 13% report the college football national title win by the Alabama Crimson Tide is the best championship of the year while an additional 13% say the NBA Championship victory by the Miami Heat tops their list. The NHL season may be on ice due to the current lockout, but the 2012 Stanley Cup win by the Los Angeles Kings is tops in the minds of 8% of sports fans. Seven percent, though, report the NCAA men’s basketball championship victory by the Kentucky Wildcats deserves the title. Six percent are unsure.
Regionally, the Super Bowl victory by the New York Giants is thought to be the top sports championship by 45% in the Northeast, 43% in the Midwest, and 29% in the South. However, in the West, the World Series triumph by the San Francisco Giants — 35% — edges the New York football Giants’ victory — 30%.
While 44% of sports fans age 30 to 44, 42% of those 45 to 59, and 32% of fans 60 and older give top honors to the New York Giants Super Bowl win, there is less agreement among younger fans. 27% of fans under 30 say the Miami Heat’s NBA championship was the best sports championship of 2012. This compares with 24% who say the same about the New York Giants taking home the Lombardi trophy.
Table: Best Sports Championship of 2012
Sandusky Scandal Sends Shockwaves
The Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse scandal not only stunned the Penn State community, but it had a large impact on the sports world. In fact, nearly half of sports fans nationally — 48% — believe this story had the biggest impact on sports in 2012. The Lance Armstrong doping scandal comes in a distant second with 18% followed by 13% who mention the replacement referees in the NFL, and 10% who pick the NHL lockout as having the greatest impact on sports in 2012. Six percent believe the NFL bounty scandal hardest hit sports this year. Four percent are unsure.
Regardless of region, income, age, ethnicity, and gender, the Sandusky scandal is thought to be the story with the largest impact on sports in 2012.
Table: Story with the Biggest Impact on Sports in 2012
Peyton Manning Most Influential on His Sport
When it comes to the player with the biggest impact on their sport in 2012, quarterback for the Denver Broncos, Peyton Manning, takes the top spot. 35% of U.S. sports fans have this view of him. The Miami Heat’s LeBron James comes in second with 24% who say he has had the biggest impact on basketball. Swimming phenomenon Missy Franklin is thought to have had the largest effect on her sport by 10%. The same proportion — 10% — says the PGA’s Rory McIlroy was the most influential in golf while an additional 10% believe Serena Williams had the largest impact on tennis. Five percent think Major League Baseball’s Mike Trout had the biggest impact on the diamond, and 6% are unsure.
Table: Player with the Biggest Impact on Their Sport in 2012
Don’t Believe the Hype
Which athlete do sports fans think is the most overhyped? A plurality — 46% — says Tim Tebow of the New York Jets deserves this dubious distinction. Third baseman for the New York Yankees, Alex Rodriguez, is believed by 18% to be the most overrated athlete this year. NASCAR’s Danica Patrick is perceived by 12% to be the most overvalued athlete. Linsanity fizzled out for the 8% of sports fans nationally who believe the NBA’s Jeremy Lin is the most overhyped athlete. Six percent say Olympic track star Lolo Jones is the most overrated, and 10% are unsure.
Just how many adults nationally are sports fans? Six in ten — 60% — are while 40% are not.
Table: Most Overhyped Athlete of 2012
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Keith Strudler, Ph.D., is the director for the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sport and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
7/23: London Olympic Games Spur Sense of Pride in Many Americans
July 23, 2012 by Marist Poll
Filed under Featured, Special Events, Sports, Sports Bench
Attention will be “across the pond” on Friday for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. 80% of adults nationally say they will follow, at least, some of the Olympic Games. This includes 19% who plan to check out a great deal of them, 23% who think they will follow a good amount of the events, and 38% who believe they will follow them a little bit. One in five — 20% — does not plan to check out any of the events.
Click Here for Complete July 23, 2012 USA Poll Release and Tables
Looking at age, those under 30 — 74% — are the least likely to watch, at least, a portion of the Olympics. This compares with 81% of Americans 30 to 44, 80% of residents 45 to 59, and 84% of those 60 and older.
And, half of Americans are feeling a sense of healthy competition and pride. 50% of adults nationally say it’s more interesting to see if U.S. athletes win the most medals. 43%, however, think it’s more interesting to witness records being set regardless of which country the athlete represents. Seven percent are unsure.
Half of Americans under 30 years of age — 50% — are more interested in having records set while 50% of those 30 to 44, 53% of residents 45 to 59, and 54% of those 60 and older are more engaged in the number of medals the nation collects.
Looking at gender, a majority of women — 52% — are interested in the number of medals the U.S. wins, and 41% want to see new records achieved. Men divide. 49% are rooting for the U.S.A. to bring home the gold, but 45% are more focused on the records set.
This Marist Poll has been done in conjunction with The Marist College Center for Sports Communication.
“When it comes to nationalism versus records, nationalism still wins,” says Dr. Keith Strudler, Director of The Marist College Center for Sports Communication. “But, records are still important to many Olympic viewers. That’s why both are stressed during Olympic coverage by U.S. media, and you’ll see select superstar athletes from other countries on top of the normal American fare.”
When it comes to the nation’s most fierce competitor, 41% of adults nationally believe China will be America’s strongest challenger. 15% think Russia will be while 8% say Canada will be the country’s toughest rival. Great Britain and Australia each receive 7%. 21% are unsure.
Table: Watch the 2012 Summer Olympics
Table: U.S. Medals or New Olympic Records
Table: America’s Strongest Competitor for the 2012 Summer Olympics
Gymnastics Takes Gold in Popularity
Three in ten watchers of the Olympics — 30% — say they are most looking forward to checking out the gymnastics events. 23% are pumped up about swimming while 18% are marking their calendars for the track and field events. Basketball is the most anticipated event for 11% of watchers while soccer receives the attention of 10%. Four percent of enthusiasts are psyched about diving while the same proportion — 4% — is looking forward to another event entirely.
There is a gender gap. A plurality of women who plan to watch the Olympics — 44% — are anticipating the gymnastics competition. However, there is little consensus among men. 28% are most looking forward to the track and field competition while 24% are getting ready for the swimming events.
Table: Summer Olympic Event Most Looking Forward to Watching
Phelps and Williams Expected to be High Profile Athletes
Half of Americans planning to watch the Olympics — 50% — say swimming sensation Michael Phelps will make the biggest male splash in London. 17% believe basketball phenom LeBron James will be the biggest male star of the competition while 8% say Jamaican track star Usain Bolt deserves that title. Five percent think swimmer Ryan Lochte will be the male talk of the Olympics while South African Oscar Pistorius, the double-amputee runner, is expected by 1% to receive the most attention. Nearly one in five — 19% — is unsure.
When it comes to the star female athlete of the 2012 Olympic Games, 43% believe tennis great Serena Williams will achieve that status. Soccer’s Hope Solo comes in a distant second with 11% followed by track athlete Lolo Jones with 9%. Seven percent expect gymnast Jordyn Wieber to be in the spotlight while 5% say the same about track’s Allyson Felix. 26% are unsure.
Table: Male Star of 2012 Summer Olympics
Table: Female Star of 2012 Summer Olympics
Tube Time or Online? How Enthusiasts are Following the Games
How will those who plan to watch the Olympics get their fix? 61% expect to tune in via television only. 31% think they will add a little online viewing to their TV watching while just 5% say they will follow the Olympics mostly online with a little TV sprinkled into the mix. Three percent will watch only online.
Not surprisingly, 79% of adults planning to watch the Olympic Games over the age of 60 say they will only view the events on TV. 60% of those 45 to 59 say the same. 49% of Olympics enthusiasts age 30 to 44, and the same proportion of those under 30 years old — 49% — report they will watch the events on TV only. A notable 14% of Americans younger than 30 say they will solely follow the games online, and an additional 13% of this age group plan to view the games mostly online.
Table: How Americans Are Watching 2012 Summer Olympics
About Keith Strudler, Ph.D.
Strudler, Ph.D., is the director of the Marist College Center for Sports Communication. Dr. Strudler founded Marist’s popular concentration in sports communication in 2002, now one of the nation’s largest in the discipline. He studies and teaches in the areas of sports media, sport and society, and sports reporting and information. Dr. Strudler also writes weekly sports commentary for WAMC, an NPR radio station in Albany, NY.
4/4: Take Me Out to the Ball Game? Maybe Not
April 4, 2012 by Marist Poll
Filed under Baseball, Featured, Sports, Sports Bench
Major League Baseball’s Opening Night is tonight! As teams gear up to take the field, a majority of baseball fans nationally say they, once again, are not planning to attend any games this season. 53% report they did not attend any baseball games last season and do not plan to venture out to the stadium this season. 31% of baseball fans think they will go to about the same number of games as last year, 10% are planning to attend more, and 6% report they will be present for fewer games. Results were similar when the Marist Poll last reported this question in April 2010.
Photo Courtesy of Stephanie L. Calvano
Click Here for Complete April 4, 2012 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables
Ticket prices are likely a factor here. Nearly 6 in 10 national baseball fans — 56% — report the cost of a ticket for a major league baseball game is not a good value for the money. 34% disagree and say they get a good bang for their buck. 10% are unsure. These proportions are unchanged from two years ago.
Looking at region, those in the Northeast are most likely to balk about the value received for the cost of a ticket to the game. Nearly three-quarters — 73% — do not think they are getting their money’s worth. Majorities in the Midwest — 55% — and South — 52% — share this view. Baseball fans in the West divide. 47% say the cost of a ticket to a game is not a good value for the money while 46% state it is.
Table: More or Less Games Than Last Year
Root, Root, Root for the Home Team?
Who do national baseball fans root for on the diamond? 16% cheer for the New York Yankees, 7% root for the Boston Red Sox, 6% say they support the Atlanta Braves, and the same proportion — 6% — is in the Chicago Cubs’ corner. Five percent are on the side of the St. Louis Cardinals while a majority of baseball fans — 53% — pick another team for which to root. Seven percent are unsure.
Region is a factor. 38% and 24% of fans living in the Northeast, respectively, say they cheer for the Yankees and Red Sox. In the Midwest, 21% are Cubs fans. Those in the South divide with 18% pulling for the Braves and 16% cheering for the Bronx Bombers.
Pre-Season Picks…Yankees are Early Favorite to Win World Series
Baseball fans nationally — 21% –choose the Yankees as the early favorite to take home the title of World Series Champions. Coming in a distant second are the Red Sox — 7% — followed by the Philadelphia Phillies — 7%. Rounding out the top five are the LA Angels of Anaheim — 5% — and the Texas Rangers with the same proportion — 5%. Nearly three in ten fans — 29% — think another team will win it all, and a notable 27% are unsure.
When the Marist Poll reported this question at the beginning of last year’s post-season in September 2011, the New York Yankees — 22% –were at the top of the heap as baseball fans’ favorite. At that time, only 2% picked the 2011 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals to win it all.
Table: Team Favored to Win the World Series
Baseball Fans
Half of adults nationally — 50% — report they follow Major League Baseball at least a little. This includes 10% who watch a great deal of the sport, 10% who take in a good amount, and 30% who watch what happens on the diamond a little. 50% do not follow baseball at all.
These proportions are similar to when Marist last reported this question. 47% of adults in September followed baseball at least a little, while 53% said they didn’t watch at all.
