International Journal of Management and Leadership Studies
2025; 6(i): 151-165
ISSN:
2311 7575
BRANDING STRATEGIES AND MARKETABILITY OF TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES IN SELECTED ATHLETICS CAMPS IN KENYA
Jackson Mumo Munywoki & Daniel Komu
Published:
01 December, 2025
Volume:
6
Issue:
i
Keywords:
Branding strategies, corporate branding, digital branding, marketability, media branding, personal branding.
This study examined the effect of personal, media, digital, and corporate branding
strategies on the marketability of track and field athletes in selected Kenyan athletics
camps, addressing their failure to benefit from effective branding despite exemplary
global performance. Guided by the Athlete Brand Image theory, supported by the Social
Exchange and Excellence theories, the descriptive research design targeted 1013 athletes
across five North Rift camps. Data were collected from a sample of 287 athletes plus 10
coaches and managers (n=297) via questionnaires and interviews, achieving a sufficient
71% response rate. Data analysis established that all four branding strategies significantly
impact marketability. Media branding demonstrated the most substantial effect, followed
by corporate branding. Personal and digital branding also showed significant
correlations. The study concluded that media branding is pivotal for enhancing visibility,
reputation, and sponsor interest. The study recommended that athletes should focus on
building an authentic personal brand by actively engaging fans through storytelling and
social media. Critically, athletes should strategically use media platforms, like Instagram
and Twitter, to boost visibility and reputation, and should leverage digital engagement
platforms and influencer marketing to attract sponsors and enhance visibility.
Developing robust corporate partnerships and sponsorships is also essential. Future
studies should focus on comparative analyses of branding effectiveness between different
athletic hubs in Kenya.