Athletic programs contribute to community culture, so people rally together to support students and local teams. The public image of sports teams depends on efforts from school administration, coaches, and athletic directors. After reading about these ways schools can support their athletic programs, you can help your institution increase its efforts.
Create Monthly Newsletters
A digital newsletter is useful for communicating with parents, community members, and booster club associates. The newsletter can highlight an athlete of the month, mention upcoming events, and list game schedules.
Schools can showcase former athletes’ personal or athletic accomplishments to enhance the letter. Put the newsletter on the school’s website and send it to media stations. Ultimately, this information keeps communities in the loop.
Prioritize Preseason Meetings
Athletic directors can set the tone and expectations for the upcoming season with a preseason meeting. This meeting is the best opportunity to present necessary information about the program, including team fees or games requiring overnight accommodations.
The meeting should have a positive and enthusiastic tone while establishing expectations for the year. Parents and athletes should attend the meeting for a preview of the season.
Connect With Local Media
Schools can support their athletic programs by connecting with local media. The local newspaper, radio station, and television station are often more than happy to support student-athletes. Their team can talk about upcoming games, do human interest pieces on athletes, and discuss leadership on and off the field.
Sharing stories about athletes overcoming hurdles or featuring students who showcase sportsmanship are excellent pieces for media networks. Their pieces shed light on positivity in schools and among young people.
Fundraise for Team Sports
Although schools have budgets for athletic programs, they can’t always cover all expenses. Instead of relying on parents and coaches to take care of bills, schools should fundraise for team sports.
Traditional fundraisers such as raffles and car washes are fine for marketing your efforts and earning some funds. However, online fundraisers are generally better. An increase in potential profits is one of several advantages of online fundraisers for team sports. With campaign links, people can donate multiple times throughout the school year.
Motivate Student-Athletes
Considering how they must juggle classes, training sessions, and sports games, being a student-athlete isn’t easy. It’s important to motivate students and acknowledge their efforts. Pep rallies are the most common athlete motivators as they encourage teams to win upcoming tournaments.
Daily or weekly motivators are essential too. Teachers, administration, and students can offer positive feedback to athletes. It’ll boost their confidence and encourage them to perform well in the classroom and field.
