Running an comprehensive school sports program can be a challenge for athletic directors. There are budget constraints, school administrators and securing use of school resources for the athletic program. Athletic directors also must deal with parents of athletes and members of the community who may express their opinions about how school’s individual sports teams are run and whether the they have winning records.
The condition and upkeep of the school’s gymnasium is another area that falls under the direction of the athletic director. Score keeping systems, playing surfaces and athletic equipment all must be kept in perfect working order. Scoreboards, championship banners and other displays must be kept in good condition and given additional space as needed.
Maintaining the functionality, appearance and safety of the gymnasium can become quite expensive. These tasks can become more challenging as school district budgets for extra curricular activities such as sports are more closely scrutinized for cost-saving opportunities.
Go Online for Fundraising
Fundraising for high school athletic teams has taken place for a years. While some ideas such as sandwich or candy sales are still done at some schools, modern technology has created some unique opportunities for generating funds.
Stream high school games on the Internet and sell advertising space to local business to be displayed during the games. Having students run the operation with school equipment can drastically cut costs for this fundraising venture. Create an online store where fans may purchase team apparel. Schools can make a deal with Internet-based clothing companies. Anyone wishing to make a purchase visits the website to select team apparel. The clothing can also be personalized, thus increasing the total dollars earned. A mutually-agreed upon percentage of each sale goes back to the school in this type of agreement.
The advantages of such a fundraiser is that the school does not have to be involved in the inventory, order processing or delivery of the items purchased. The team can promote the website through the school’s website and social media. The school then receives a periodic check from the clothing company.
Turn to the Local Business Community
School athletic programs may also generate funds may creating opportunities for local businesses to advertise and sell their products at school events. The local business community will gain additional sales and visibility as well as generate good will with the school and local residents.
Instead of running a traditional concession stand during games, schools may form agreements with local food vendors. The vendors sells their food products and donate a portion of the event’s proceeds to the team.
The school may also sell 3×5 foot size banners imprinted with the advertising for local business. The businesses would pay specific prices for the location and time of their banner’s display.
Draw a Crowd, Sell Tickets
Athletic programs may host a variety of events to raise funds for their sports teams. Debate nights with local community and school officials as participants. Talent shows with students and teachers performing can be a fun activity with very low operating costs. Inviting sports alumni to play in an exhibition game may generate ticket sales as well as encourage donations to the sports programs.
While many school districts face budget cutbacks, imaginative fundraising can help a school raise funds need to keep the gymnasium and other athletic areas in excellent condition.