**What does the term "fan engagement" refer to in professional sports?**
Fan engagement refers to the strategies and activities employed by professional sports teams to connect with their supporters. This can include social media interactions, promotional events, and personalized experiences that enhance the fan’s connection to the team. Effective fan engagement fosters loyalty and creates a sense of community, ultimately driving ticket sales and merchandise purchases. Teams that prioritize fan engagement often see stronger attendance, active fan participation, and increased overall support.