Public relations, football and the management of player transgressions in Australia

Abstract

Player transgressions have become an increasingly common part of the Australian sporting landscape and can lead to serious reputational and financial damage for sporting organisations, if not managed properly. Using a series of in-depth interviews with media and communication managers across the Hyundai A-League, this study explores how football (soccer) clubs in Australia use public relations strategies and tactics when managing player transgressions. Based on its findings, the study delivers recommendations for public relations practice.