EXAMINING THE SPORTS WATCHING CULTURE OF EXPATRIATES LIVING IN TAIWAN

Abstract: This study looks at the functions of watching sports for an expatriate living in Taipei, Taiwan - specifically rugby fans because during the time of study Super Rugby was taking place. With the emergence of online streaming, watching live sports games that take place in other parts of the world, is made possible and more convenient. Previous studies came up with different theories as to why people watched sports and this pa- per researched whether those theories applies to the expatriate community or if there is a unique difference. In order to find data, field observations were done at both pub- lic and private settings. There are two sports pubs in Taipei, The Brass Monkey and On Tap, that have a large expat audience and therefore, were chosen for public field observations. The private field observations were made at the home of a rugby fan who watched games on a weekly basis with three other participants. This study looked at what social behaviors (such as high-fiving each other) and interactions took place while watching sports in the bars and private home. Prior to the field observa- tions were interviews done on the group of sports fans to direct what to look for in field observations. The paper classifies motivations for watching sports as an expat, using Gantz’s 1981 study with additional motivations that was more appropriate for recent studies. Results found that while there were similarities with previous theories on how watching sports with others enhance some behaviors, the notion of patriotism was not exemplified as other studies may imply. Discussions focuses on how sport watching is not just about the act of supporting specific teams, but instead building a social community. Lastly, after completing the field observations and interviews, sug- gestions for future studies is discussed.