Clubs!

Some people join fan clubs of various descriptions and of course with the internet its much easier to join clubs and keep in contact with members.

I myself am a member of a number of clubs including an on-line Star Trek club called Starfleet. Many clubs/groups  operate on a similar principle to Starfleet. You are assigned to a particular ship and within that ship a division in which you may play a particular role, and you must work you way up the promotion ladder by various means. With Starfleet it means you must be an active member, take part in various activities including Role Playing Games (RPG's) and take courses at Starfleet Academy. Then, with approval from your ships Captain you will begin your way up the promotion ladder.

I am currently assigned to the USS Matrix NCC-72296 with the rank of Commander and hold the position of Executive/First Officer.

Its all for fun and these titles and ranks mean nothing in the real world, its just a way of meeting up with like-minded people!