A sports tournament can be an amazing way to bring people together and promote a local event. Whether you’re hosting a single day competition or an entire weekend, there are several steps that you should take to make sure the event runs smoothly and that all participants have a great time.
Choosing the Right Field
When choosing the location for your tournament, it’s important to consider the needs of both players and spectators. You’ll need a level, flat playing field with grass and adequate facilities. Check out schools, parks, and private fields within your area to find one that meets your needs. Look for facilities that are affordable, have the space you need, and offer parking and bathrooms.
Getting Sponsorships
A great way to get sponsors for your tournament is to cold-call local clubs and businesses in your community. You’ll need volunteers who can make calls on your behalf, so recruit them and set up a date for the first round of phone calls. Ask for their contact information, then make an elevator pitch for your tournament.
Creating A Hashtag
A hashtag for your tournament can help to hype up players and fans alike. It’s also a great way to track participation and share updates about the event. Create a unique hashtag that will appeal to your target audience, and be sure to use it on all promotional material.
Keeping a Hashtag Active
A great way to keep your hashtag active is to create social media posts that encourage your followers to tag themselves in the event. This can be done by posting photos of your tournament, sharing news about the event on Twitter or Instagram, and more.
Having a Hashtag can make it easier for fans to follow the tournament and find out how their favorite team is doing. It can also give them a chance to express their support for their team.
Volunteers and a Back-up Plan
If your tournament is large, you’ll need plenty of volunteers to help with everything from set-up and break-down to checking in participants and handing out prizes. You can get more people involved by recruiting friends and family, but remember to always have a backup plan for those who aren’t available.
Finding a Field
You’ll want to find a soccer field that’s appropriate for the size of your tournament and will allow for a variety of games. Call the local soccer facilities and schools in your area, and see if they’re interested in hosting your event on their field.
Before you go to the field, check with your local park and recreation department to determine if there are any restrictions on hosting a tournament at that location. For example, it may require that you pay a per hour or day fee and provide bathrooms.
It can also be helpful to find a location that’s close to your community, so you’ll have easy access for all of the participants and spectators. This will reduce travel costs for everyone and ensure a smooth tournament.