What does 'grassroots marketing' refer to in sports?

Grassroots marketing in sports focuses on cultivating relationships and building a fan base at the community level. By engaging fans locally, sports teams can foster a sense of loyalty and support that is vital for long-term success. This approach often includes initiatives such as community events, local sponsorships, and outreach programs that resonate with people in the area.

The emphasis on local engagement is crucial as it creates an emotional connection between fans and the team. Fans who feel personally invested and included are more likely to support the team, attend games, and participate in promotional activities. This kind of marketing is typically grassroots in nature, relying on community involvement and personal connections rather than broader advertising strategies.

In contrast, using social media to attract a global audience, advertising in national sports publications, and partnering with international brands for sponsorships are strategies that do not specifically target grassroots community engagement. These approaches tend to focus on wider reach and visibility, rather than building foundational support from the local fan base. Thus, the correct answer highlights the essence of grassroots marketing as engaging fans at a local level.