An analysis of the influence of the Boston Marathon Bombing on sport management

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of the Boston Marathon Bombing on sport management. This qualitative study was conducted in three Gulf Coast States in the southeastern United States. Sport terrorism has affected major sporting events around the world since 1972. As recently as three years ago, terror struck again in Boston, Massachusetts killing three people and maiming 260. For this study, the criteria for selection of respondents included public safety managers and directors of collegiate and professional athletic facilities. Information from total of 10 respondents was recorded, transcribed, and coded into themes for data analyses. The themes of "Lone wolf," "Perimeter," "Are You Threatening Me?" and "Table Top" emerged, thus indicating a heightened awareness toward terrorism. This research may aid in the security preparation for sport management practioners and could serve to enhance the curriculum of students who study sport management.