Event Ideas
Mark Fletcher
·
2 minute read
Organising events is an effective and engaging way for sports clubs to generate income while fostering community spirit and member retention. A well-planned calendar of events not only boosts finances but strengthens the social fabric of the club, making it a welcoming and enjoyable place for all. Event planning should be strategically spaced throughout the year to ensure a steady flow of income and club engagement.
Implementation Steps
Form a Social Committee: Create a committee involving former players or long-time supporters who wish to stay involved without the weekly commitment. This committee can plan, promote, and execute events.
Plan a Schedule of Events: Plan the year with events timed around home matches or key dates to encourage participation. Send out this schedule along with the fixture list at the beginning of the season.
Diversify Event Types: Include a mix of events that appeal to different demographics within the club, from family-friendly activities to adult-oriented evenings.
Budget and Pricing: Set ticket prices to cover costs and generate profit. Consider creative ways to monetise events, such as raffles, auctions, and merchandise sales.
Involve Sponsors: Invite current and potential sponsors to events like presentation nights, offering them exposure and strengthening relationships that could lead to further support.
Promote Widely: Advertise events and maximise attendance using social media, the club’s website, newsletters, and word of mouth.
Club Benefits
Increased Income: Events provide a reliable way to generate revenue beyond regular matchday earnings.
Community Building: Hosting events helps members feel more connected to the club, improving retention and participation.
Flexibility: Events can be tailored to suit various age groups and interests, ensuring wide appeal.
Sponsor Engagement: Events offer opportunities to involve sponsors, giving them visibility and reinforcing partnerships.
Diverse Fundraising: Clubs can maintain a steady income stream throughout the year by organising different types of events.
Event Examples
Presentation Night: Host an end-of-season presentation night to celebrate achievements and recognise sponsors. This can be informal with a buffet and disco or formal with a sit-down dinner. Revenue can come from ticket sales, raffles, and auctions.
Home Opener Event: Turn the first home game of the season into a special event with added attractions such as live music, raffles, and themed activities. This sets a positive tone for the season and can attract new supporters.
Pre-Season Fundraisers: Hold a planning meeting involving players, former players, committee members, and community stakeholders to brainstorm fundraising ideas and build enthusiasm.
Sponsored Walks and Runs: Organise a sponsored walk or fun run that promotes fitness and community involvement. Participants can be charged an entry fee, and additional funds can be raised through merchandise and refreshment sales.
Car Boot Sale: Utilise club grounds for a car boot sale, charging stall fees and selling refreshments to increase revenue.
Community Fairs: Host a fair featuring sponge throwing, tombola stalls, and games. Charge for participation in activities and sell club merchandise for extra profit.
Karaoke and Quiz Nights: Host fun social nights like karaoke or quizzes. Charge an entry fee and offer prizes to attract participants.
