Sports Fans + Bits + Blocks

How the new technology that powers Bitcoin could put fans at the center of sports

Fourth in Humans + Bits + Blocks where we use design to explore how bitcoin and block chains might change our everyday lives.

What does it mean to be a fan?

After the Boston Red Sox broke their 86 year championship drought in 2004, teary eyed fans wandered the streets exchanging hugs and high fives with complete strangers. Their decades of intense devotion had finally paid off. Ever been in a stadium or arena when the fans cheer in unison to create a deafening crescendo of energy? These electric moments of excessive enthusiasm are what make sports deeply emotional and fun.

While that emotional connection can result in ecstatic highs and crushing lows, the fan experience can feel superficial when watching from a distance. Block chains could bring fans closer to the action by supporting experiences and rewards that better reflect the nature of devoting yourself to an organization. As fans, we want to be recognized for our support beyond the dollars we spend.

Bitcoin and block chains allow for the creation of novel, end-to loyalty programs that are as open to participation as real currencies while being uniquely associated with the sponsoring team. As a permanent set of records, block chains also offer a way to track the unique history of one-of-a-kind sports memorabilia.

In the following design concepts, we’ve fleshed out five definitive moments in the life of a rabid baseball fan. But, try to imagine these new moments for any sporting team — or even any brand.