Running a sports club is not unlike managing a business. While it might be driven by passion more so than profit, it requires careful planning, thought and consideration in keeping expenditure within a reasonable range while maximising the monetary rewards to allow the organisation not only to survive but to find success and growth within its small but highly competitive space. As fun and enjoyable as the experience should be for its members, staff and the rest of the community, a businesslike approach is essential. To this end, here are a few practical tips on how to run a sports club.
- Consider being affiliated by an NGB
While being affiliated by an NGB or National Governing Body may entail fees that you might think would be better spent elsewhere, it boasts many advantages that are well worth considering, especially for those working with a tight budget. For starters, some NGBs provide insurance for the players of your sports club and make sure that they get the coverage that they need when needed. They also open up affiliated organisations to official leagues and tournaments that may be too costly for a modest sports club to host and create better exposure for an organisation. Not only can this reel in more supporters but potential sponsors also.
- Compare prices for club equipment and tools
Whether you’re looking for equipment that your club’s featured sports require or tools to help better manage the organisation’s inner workings like membership database software, it’s always good standard practice to compare prices from various manufacturers, suppliers and developers first before making a decision. While this pragmatic approach may require a little more effort and work, it’s an investment of time well worth making when you consider the amount of money that you can potentially save. With plenty of viable options, it shouldn’t be a difficult task to do too, so there’s no reason not to do it.
- Take required precautions when hiring staff members
The importance of taking all the required precautions when hiring employees like administrators and coaches for the sports club cannot be overstated. After all, they serve as the pillars of the organisation and a reflection of what the club is all about. It’s not enough to take someone’s word for it, and thorough background checks should always be done first. Not only will this maximise your chances of acquiring productive staff members for the sports club, but you’ll also mitigate the chances of any potential issues from arising caused by the actions of your employees.
While sports clubs generally elicit positive reactions from everyone involved, it’s important not to let your emotions get the best of you and cloud your judgement when running the organisation. Always be mindful of your expenditure, and take all the necessary steps if it means more savings in the long run such as being affiliated with an NGB. More importantly, make sure never to leave a stone unturned when looking for employees to hire. That can go a long way, especially in helping the sports club avoid any potential problems along the road.
