First published 2021
Sports fandom makes you healthier, smarter, and more connected to others. Larry Olmsted presents research showing that identifying with a team improves your social, psychological, and physical wellbeing. Fans develop stronger relationships and experience greater happiness. Their brains age better, maintaining superior cognitive function and language abilities. College students who follow sports earn higher GPAs, graduate more often, and make more money after graduation. Sports also heal communities during crises like 9/11 and mass shootings, offering hope when people need it most. Even pandemic games provided joy during isolation. Olmsted builds his case through studies on sports fandom, revealing how team loyalty creates measurable benefits. The book includes drawings and serves as an ideal gift for sports lovers or those who care about them.
Genres: psychology, sports, non-fiction, health, academic
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: non-fiction
320 pages · Hardcover · Algonquin Books