Podcast blurb: On this podcast we discuss the phenomena of trickle-down effects (TDE), which refer processes by which people are inspired by elite sport, sports people, or sports events to participate themselves. We discuss and critique the current body of literature/evidence dedicated to this area of inquiry, and suggest ways in which TDE might be more effectively leveraged to bring about desired participation impacts from sport events.

Luke’s bio: Luke’s research focuses on consumer behaviour related to sport events. It addresses the overarching question: under what conditions do sport events have positive impacts for individuals and organizations in host communities? Luke’s research draws from diverse disciplinary perspectives and methodological approaches. The knowledge generated from his work is aimed to improve event management practices in ways that maximize participation-related impacts that can result from hosting elite-sport events.

Further reading and resources:

Potwarka, L.R., & Wicker, P. (2021). Conditions under which trickle-down effects occur: A realist synthesis approach. Sustainability, 13(1), 69.

Potwarka, L.R., Snelgrove, R., Drewery, D., Bakhsh, J, & Wood, L. (2020). From intention to participation: Exploring the moderating role of a voucher-based event leveraging initiative. Sport Management Review, 23(2), 302-314.

Potwarka, L.R., Ramchandani, G., & Castellanos-García, P., Kokolakakis, T., Teare, G., & *Jiang, K. (2023). Beyond the host nation: An investigation of trickle-down effects in the “hometowns” of Canadian athletes who competed at the London 2012 Olympic Games. European Sport Management Quarterly, 4, 963-982.

Potwarka, L.R., *Drewery, D., Snelgrove, R., Havitz, M.E., & Mair, H. (2018). Modelling a demonstration effect: The case of spectators’ experiences at 2015 Pan Am Games’ track cycling competitions. Leisure Sciences, 40(6), 578-600

Potwarka, L.R., & Leatherdale, S. (2016). The Vancouver 2010 Olympics and leisure-time physical activity rates among youth in Canada: Any evidence of a trickle-down effect? Leisure Studies, 35(3), 241-257.