Sports and entertainment marketing teacher, Matthew Naber, is taking student engagement to the next level with an innovative twist: a class fantasy football league. With a deep-rooted love for sports, Naber uses this trend to teach marketing concepts while fostering teamwork in his classroom.
The league consists of eight teams, each made up of three to four students. The students are responsible for setting their lineups, making trades and strategizing throughout the season. “It’s a fun way to follow the NFL and learn about sports marketing,” Naber said.
Every Thursday, students dedicate time in class to discuss player performance and adjust their lineups, while Mondays are reserved for reviewing scores and matchups from the previous week. Naber rewards the winning teams with treats, adding an element of friendly competition.
The curriculum coincides with the fantasy league, focusing on concepts like star power. Naber points to examples like Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever, illustrating how individual athletes can significantly boost a league’s visibility and revenue
“We discuss how certain players can drive ticket sales and merchandise,” Naber notes.
This learning approach has led to an increase in student engagement. The league fosters interaction, sparking friendly debates and alliances as students strategize against one another. “It’s great to see them communicating and getting excited about matchups,” Naber shares.
While managing the league has been largely smooth, Naber emphasizes the importance of ensuring students stay organized and keep their lineups updated. The growth of the class from 22 to 32 students this year indicates a rising interest in both the course and fantasy sports. Naber believes this is likely fueled by increased access to sports content through social media.
As Naber reflects on the league’s success, he envisions potential expansions for the future. “It would be fun to have a bigger league or even multiple classes competing against each other, allowing everyone to have their own team,” said Naber.
His advice for other educators?: “Just try it! It’s fun, engaging, and encourages friendly competition. It’s a great way to get students interacting and learning together.”
Naber’s fantasy football league is more than just a game; it’s a dynamic educational tool that teaches students valuable marketing principles while fostering a love for sports. As the league continues to evolve, it promises to remain a highlight of the curriculum, bringing excitement and learning to the classroom.
“I hope they just learn that fantasy sports is something that can bring a little bit more entertainment value to watching a game.”