The Department of Sociology at The University of Hong Kong was pleased to host Ms Vien Tsang, an alumna of the MSocSc (MCCC) program, as part of the Media, Culture and Creative Cities Speaker Series. In her engaging talk, Tsang, a seasoned sports journalist and athlete, shared her insights on the profound relationship between sport and society, highlighting how sport functions beyond mere physical activity to influence culture, identity, and social values.

Tsang’s journey in the world of sport is both inspiring and multifaceted. She recounted her experiences covering major international events such as the 2009 East Asian Games in Hong Kong, the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, and the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou. Her work across various media outlets, including Now TV and HOY TV, demonstrates her versatility and dedication to bringing sports stories to a broad audience. Beyond journalism, Tsang is also actively involved as a Floorball player representing Hong Kong, underscoring her lifelong passion for sport.

Throughout her talk, Tsang emphasised the deep connection between sport and sociology. She explained how her passion for sport has shaped her career and how she has sought to understand its broader cultural significance. Her work reflects a desire to expand the understanding of sport beyond entertainment, viewing it as a vital part of everyday life and social identity.

A central theme of Tsang’s presentation was the essence and spirit of sport — its morality, passion, and sportsmanship. She acknowledged the commercial aspects of sport, such as sponsorship and media coverage, raising questions about whether the true spirit of sport can be commodified or if it retains its moral core amid commercial interests. Her reflections prompted thoughtful discussion on how commercialisation might influence the authenticity of sporting events and their cultural significance.

Tsang also introduced the concept of “sportainment,” describing how sport has become a mass spectacle that blends athletic competition with entertainment. Events like the Super Bowl and Hong Kong Rugby Sevens exemplify this trend, attracting audiences who may not be traditional fans of the sports but are drawn to the vibrant atmosphere and shared experience of being part of a spectacle. This phenomenon illustrates how sport functions as a form of cultural entertainment that unites diverse audiences.

In closing, Tsang highlighted the importance of viewing sport through a sociological lens, recognising it as both a cultural practice and a social phenomenon. Her talk offered students a compelling perspective on the role of sport in shaping cultural identity and social life, reinforcing the significance of understanding sport as more than just a game — as a vital element of modern culture and community.

About the series: The Media, Culture and Creative Cities Speaker Series consists of high-level seminars where we invite leading industry figures and academic speakers to HKU Sociology to share their insights into the role that media, culture and creativity plays in shaping society.

Photo credit: Au Sen Fung Wilfred