One of the most interesting facets of how digital technology is tying into every facet of our lives, including all manner of hobbies, is how it has led to the “nerdification” of a range of interests that previously were thought to be anything but nerdy. One of the easiest hobbies in which to see this transformation is in the world of sports. Here, we’re going to look at some of the factors that sped the nerdification of sports, as well as some of the best ways for the more technically and intellectually inclined to better enjoy their sports.
Stats are king
Nowadays, your knowledge of sports is dictated by more than simply having a good eye for tactics or how loudly you can proclaim that an athlete should change their approach. Nowadays, the ‘supernerds’ of sports are the ones who typically tend to be the best go-to sources of insights. The statistical approach to breaking down sporting performances is typically seen as the most accurate way to make predictions. And there are plenty of sports stats websites that can help you brush up on your knowledge of your favorite sport, giving you the edge when it comes to making the right predictions. Those with a statistician’s brain are those that sports fans tend to flock to for their takes, nowadays.
Turning insight into victory
Of course, there’s a lot more than you can do with a learner’s approach to sports than simply showing that big intellect off. You can just as easily make it work in your favor and even earn a little money on the side. Fantasy sports leagues have always been a big part of the fandom ever since they were first established, but now the internet is making it easier to find and join them than ever before. While many may be reserved for friends groups and workplaces, there are online-only fantasy sports leagues that can even offer prizes and wagers for those that want to join. As such, sports superfans can put their money where their mouth is.
The dominance of sports games
Video games have long evolved from the niche interest it was into now what is one of the dominant shapers of modern culture, making more money than the movie industry for several years in a row now. Sports games, such as the EA Sports series, have been a part of the industry since its 16-bit days but are now consistently amongst the top sellers with the highest player bases. Now, sports games such as the NBA 2K games, Pro Evolution Soccer, and more are amongst some of the most popular e-sports games, too, allowing even digital athletes to enjoy some level of notoriety, not to mention cash prizes, for this perfect marriage of sports and nerd-dom.
Showing off that encyclopedic knowledge
Another contest that makes good use of both a player’s sporting knowledge as well as their ability to store and recall information at will is that is the sports quiz. Quizzing leagues are getting bigger and better than ever thanks to the spread of the internet, as well as increasing urbanization making it easier for quizzers to find one another. Most quiz teams have at least one sports guy (or gal) on them, able to pull out the most obscure terms in the NBA glossary, to recall key dates, records, and players from throughout sporting history. There are even quiz leagues that are wholly dedicated to sports, testing the kind of knowledge that even most pundits would be hard-pressed to show.
The chroniclers of the sport
We’re getting to the point that most mainstream US sports have a considerable history to look back on. Any fan can become a fan of a sport to the point that they can recognize the big events, including wins, upsets, and changes to the game. However, it’s only those who are most dedicated to the scholarly approach of sports that have led to the growing popularity of sports museums throughout the country. People are showing a much deeper appreciation for more than just the sport itself, but the very history of how the sport came to be, and the little and large factors that contributed to its growth throughout the years. Those with a penchant for history have simply put, allowed for a much deeper appreciation of sports.
A collector’s eye
Another nerdy interest that has long been part of the sporting world, but is only becoming increasingly valuable, is that of the collectible. Sports memorabilia has long had a place in the industry, of course, with things like rare jerseys, signed goods, and trading cards gaining value a lot more quickly in the sporting world than any other industry or realm of entertainment. Those with a keen eye for collecting quickly took the top spots in this world, able to buy and sell their way to prominence, which has now led to some of the biggest online sports memorabilia stores on the net. As such, not only can a good eye for detail and sports history help you become a better fan, it can even help you make a profit.
Getting fit like a gamer
Gamers might not exactly be the first group you think of when it comes to the health-conscious, but the gaming world has been working to change that perception. Fitness games have become a lot more popular over the past few generations, starting with console sellers like WiiFit, and moving into newer games like Ring Fit Adventure. Furthermore, exercise is being gamified in a host of ways outside the realm of video games, too. Most major fitness apps use some form of gamification, including tracking stats and achievements, to keep users motivated.
The mix of nerd and jock is very much a modern reality, and the lines are only going to blur more as modern technology makes sports more accessible to even those who have never set foot on the field, themselves.
