The Toronto Blue Jays are going to the World Series to face the defending World Series Champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers. As you’ve probably heard, the last time they were in the World Series, was the last time they won the World Series in 1993.
Being a sports fan is thrilling like a roller coaster. When your team is doing well, it’s the best feeling in the world, and when they lose and lose big, it’s heartbreaking. Year after year, loss after loss, and heartbreak after heartbreak – sports fans will still be there for their team.
No doubt, everyone feels that the Toronto Blue Jays are the underdogs for the World Series.
Now this article isn’t meant to be about them, I mean I’m in market research! This is about the fans. What is it that makes us fans follow them, adore them, and support them despite all the years of loss and sports heartbreak? Why do we love them so much? Why were we all so stressed out on Monday night as they were down 3-1 against the Seattle Mariners?
As I sit here in anticipation of Game 1 on Friday night, I figured I’d do something a little fun at work and calm my anxieties by being a nerd. Environics Research has been tracking 100’s of Social Values constructs and so I decided to pick out the ones that just might answer the ultimate question… What drives us to be die-hard fans of our Toronto Blue Jays?
Being part of something bigger than yourself
Sports evoke strong emotions — excitement, tension, joy, frustration — that people experience together. Sharing these emotions with others heightens their intensity and creates memorable experiences. It also creates a sense of belonging as people who have huge differences find common ground in supporting the same team. In a world where differences divide more than ever, having a common team to root for can bring positivity and people together.
Being part of the Canadian community
The Toronto Blue Jays hold a unique position as the only current Canadian MLB franchise. In a country often divided by regional identities, hockey loyalties, and language, the Jays serve as a rare common denominator in professional sport. Canadians can cheer for the same team regardless of geography and have fond memories of the big wins (ie. 1992 and 1993 World Series wins, the “Bat-Flip” in 2015)
Embracing the Unknown
Sports are the “ultimate reality” tv show where no one can truly be sure what will happen. We hope each year that the Jays can win a World Series, and for it to be closer than it’s ever been, brings genuine joy and positivity. Furthermore, watching these athletes work hard and achieve physical feats that the average human can’t do is mesmerizing. Coming from “real” people, in a world where AI starts to take over, people still embrace the authenticity of human achievement.
Escapism
Lastly, in world where it feels like stressors are everywhere, following the Jays’ run this year has brought tons of happiness and nostalgia to many people across the country. At the ballpark, watching the action in real-life, the unpredictability of each pitch, swing, and inning pulls us in the moment. That rhythmic ebb and flow lets people forget about time — a psychological hallmark of escapism. The hope and support you have for the Jays, for every hit and run that get provides the emotional release from the pressures and monotony of daily life.
No matter the outcome of the World Series, one thing is certain. Blue Jays fans will keep showing up, united by pride, passion, and the joy of being part of something bigger than us.
Attraction To Crowds
Meaningful Connections
Community Involvement