Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate how sports celebrities can be perceived as role
models and influence young adult consumers’ purchase and behavioural intentions. Further, it also
seeks to examine whether this influence differs between males and females.
Design/methodology/approach – A self-administered questionnaire was designed using established
scales. A convenience sample was drawn from students in a large university in Western Australia.
Findings – Athlete role model endorsers have a positive influence on young adults’ product switching
behaviour, complaint behaviour, positive word-of-mouth behaviour and brand loyalty. This confirms the
assumption that sports celebrities are important socialisation agents and can have significant impact on
purchase intentions and behaviours.
Practical implications – This research provides useful insight into the influence of athlete endorsers on
young adults and suggests athletes have a positive influence on young adults’ behavioural intentions in
switching products, generating word-of-mouth and establishing brand loyalty. More importantly, this
study is a significant step towards providing useful information about how young consumers respond to
the use of sports celebrities in advertising.
Originality/value – Previous studies indicate that this potential influence and impact of sports star
endorsers would be at its peak amongst the youth market. This paper extends previous studies by
focusing on one specific market – young adults in Australia.