Where are the students: modeling and improving basketball attendance

Abstract

The University of Virginia athletic department has experienced problems with actual student attendance at men's home basketball games differing greatly from what was expected. There are also problems with admitting students into the general admission student section including maintaining the order of the student line prior to the game, and issues with students camping. The purpose of this project was threefold: to provide the athletic department with the tools necessary to more effectively predict student attendance; to suggest improvements for the existing procedures and policies for student fans; and to help with the campout process. We produced a regression-based prediction model, a framework for the future implementation of a student attendance registration system, and a technology-based solution to support the maintenance of the order of students waiting to enter the arena. Student surveys were instrumental in assuring that the student preferences were considered in all phases of the work.