| Abstract: |
This study investigated undergraduate students' viewership of the
English Premier League (EPL) on SuperSport in Anambra State. It is
built on the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT) and Play Theory,
the research examined viewing patterns, the gratifications sought
and derived, as well as the extent to which SuperSport's EPL
coverage meets the information, entertainment, and social
interaction needs of students. A survey design was adopted, with
structured questionnaire administered to undergraduate students
across selected universities in Anambra State. Findings revealed that
the majority of undergraduate students regularly watch EPL matches
on SuperSport, with high preference for games involving top clubs.
English and Nigerian Pidgin English were the most preferred
languages of commentary, reflecting cultural and linguistic realities
of the Nigerian audience. Results further indicated that
undergraduate students seek gratifications such as entertainment,
identification with favourite clubs, social bonding, and stress relief
through EPL viewership. In addition, most respondents derived
these gratifications, including pleasure, excitement, pride in club
loyalty, and opportunities for peer interaction. The study also
established that satisfaction with SuperSport's EPL coverage is
generally high, though varying across viewing frequency. The study
recommends that broadcasters enhance content diversity,
incorporate localised commentary, and design more interactive
platforms to sustain youth engagement. |
