Why SMS Is the Missing Play in Your Fan Engagement Strategy

Every February, the world stops to watch the biggest game of the year, and rightfully so. But while fans indulge in unforgettable moments, halftime thrills, and game-winning touchdowns, something even more exciting is happening behind the scenes.

Teams everywhere are reimagining how they connect with their audiences in the world of sports and entertainment marketing. And in 2026, that doesn’t just mean social media posts or email blasts – it means authentic connection for sports teams by delivering messages directly to fans’ phones in real-time.

At Community, we’ve seen firsthand how this shift is transforming the way sports teams build relationships, drive revenue, and create lifelong fans. In 2024, Verizon teamed up with J Balvin for a standout Super Bowl ad, inviting thousands of fans to text him directly. The number he shared? It was his Community.

Texting Isn’t Old School, It’s the MVP of Fan Engagement

Social feeds are noisy. Emails get buried. But texts? They get read – and fast. With open rates that far surpass other channels, SMS puts your message front and center on the place fans check the most: their phones.

With Community’s messaging platform, teams can go beyond one‑way announcements and create real conversations that fans actually want to be part of. Whether it’s game‑day reminders, roster news, exclusive content, or special offers, texting brings your audience into the moment and not just into your funnel.

Turn Fans Into Fanatics Not Just Followers

Want to know the secret? Fans don’t just want information, they want connection. With Community’s SMS tools, teams can:

🎟️ Sell Smarter

Text fans directly about ticket releases, last‑minute seat drops, or exclusive presales – turning awareness into action in real time.

💬 Create Two‑Way Conversations

Engage fans in polls, replies, and interactive experiences that make them feel heard. These aren’t blasts – they’re dialogues fans eagerly respond to.

📊 Learn What Fans Really Care About

Segment supporters by behavior and interests; from season ticket holders to BTS fan access, tailor messaging that resonates on an individual level.

🛍️ Drive Revenue Beyond the Stadium

Whether it’s merch drops, sponsor promos, or unique digital experiences, SMS keeps fans engaged and eager to buy all season long.

Real Teams. Real Results. Real Engagement.

Teams across leagues and levels have already leaned into this new era of fan communication with Community. From NBA teams to MLS clubs, organizations are discovering that texting doesn’t replace your existing channels – it elevates them. Here are some sports marketing examples that show how SMS can drive ticket sales, merchandise, and fan loyalty

One recent success story saw a team grow its subscriber base by thousands in just days by making SMS the centerpiece of their ticket strategy with nearly half of fans engaging with content directly through their Community number.

SMS is More Than Marketing – It’s a Competitive Edge

In today’s crowded sports and entertainment marketing landscape, teams that win aren’t just the ones with the most followers or biggest budgets. They’re the ones with the deepest connections. SMS gives you that edge in your sports marketing strategies:

• Instant real‑time reach that cuts through the clutter.
• Direct conversations that build loyalty.
• Segmented targeting that makes every message matter.
• Revenue opportunities that extend beyond ticket sales.

Fans want to feel seen. Heard. Part of something bigger than the scoreboard. With Community, teams can make that happen from kickoff to the final whistle and beyond.

Bring Your Fans Closer One Text at a Time

As the Super Bowl excitement fades and the post-season gets underway, it’s time to start thinking about new ways to engage your fans. The teams that thrive will be the ones that don’t just broadcast messages – they start conversations.

If your sports organization is ready to connect with fans in a way that’s personal, direct, and downright effective, SMS isn’t just the future, it's the next game winning play. And Community is here to help you run it.

Want to check it out for yourself? Join a few Communities today!

• San Francisco 49ers
• Carolina Hurricanes
• OKC Thunder
• Detroit Lions
• Edmonton Oilers
• Minnesota Timberwolves

Ready to build sports marketing strategies that get you the lead in the game? Text ‘DEMO’ to 323-310-2202 or request a walkthrough