The purpose of this study was to replicate the applicability of the Gwinner and Bennett model (2008) which examined the effects of brand cohesiveness and sport identification on sponsor fit in a sponsorship in a Japan context. This study analyzed also focusing on the impact of sponsor fit on two important consumer behavioral outcome; attitude toward sponsors and purchase intentions. The data were collected from 537 spectators at the HP JAPAN WOMEN'S OPEN TENNIS 2009 in Osaka. The results of study indicate that brand cohesiveness and sport identification also have strong impacts on the sponsor fit at the event. Findings also support our hypotheses that sponsor fit has a positive influence on consumers purchase intentions through the attitude toward sponsor. It can be concluded that the Gwinner and Bennett model is applicable to the sponsorship in a Japanese context.

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Japanese special expression “Kandoh” refers to a positive emotional state which is deeply impressed by certain things that move the heart. Kandoh is often well-used, specifically for explaining the impressive experience of watching sports. Harada (2008) pointed out the importance of Kandoh experiences in terms of the management of sports teams. Despite the increased importance, no empirical research on this topic has been conducted in the field of sport management. The purposes of this study are to (1) develop a scale for measuring specific of scenes that capture sports spectators' emotional Kandoh experiences, (2) investigate gender differences with respect to Kandoh scenes, and examine what impact Kandoh scenes have on spectators' intentions to attend future games. The results indicate that the construct of Kandoh experience consists of, an eight dimensions, gender differences exist, and some Kandoh scenes have significant effects on customer satisfaction and attendance intentions.

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