Local Clubs & Big Sporting Events

When major sporting events like the UEFA Euro 2024, Paris Olympics, or the Rugby World Cup capture the world's attention, they create a unique opportunity for local clubs to boost engagement, attract new members, and strengthen their community presence. With the right approach, your club can turn the excitement of global sports into local participation and long-term growth.

Here’s how your club can make the most of big sporting events:

Major tournaments bring people together, so why not make your club the go-to place for fans?

Ideas for Watch Parties:

• Screen live matches – Set up a projector at your clubhouse or partner with a local pub to create a match-day atmosphere.
• Pre- and post-match analysis – Have coaches or club members discuss tactics, player performances, and key moments to engage fans.
• Family-friendly activities – Include games, quizzes, and mini-competitions to involve younger fans.

By organising social events around big matches, you bring the community together and create awareness for your club.

Big tournaments inspire people to play sports, especially kids and beginners who may not know where to start.

• Run free taster sessions in the lead-up to or during major events to encourage participation.
• A football club could host a penalty shootout or small-sided games before a big Euro 2024 match.
• A rugby club could organise a “Learn the Basics” event alongside Six Nations fixtures.
• A hockey club could invite newcomers to a beginner’s training session after an Olympic match.

Making it easy for people to try a sport lowers the barrier to entry and helps recruit new players.

Big sporting events are perfect for building partnerships that benefit both your club and the wider community.

• Work with schools to deliver themed sports sessions linked to major events.
• Team up with local businesses to sponsor community events, provide prizes, or offer discounts on club memberships.
• Create promotional offers such as “Join Now and Get Your First Month Free” to attract new members during major tournaments.

Strong local partnerships help increase visibility and bring more people into the club.

Tapping into the competitive spirit of major events can encourage people to get involved at the local level.

• Host a youth tournament that mirrors the format of a big event, such as a mini Euros or Olympics-style competition.
• Create club challenges, like goal-scoring contests or skill-based drills, with prizes for winners.
• Arrange friendly matches where participants can experience the thrill of competition in a relaxed setting.

These events bring energy to the club, encourage new sign-ups, and keep members engaged.

Big sporting events often rekindle people’s passion for the game. This is the perfect time to reconnect with former players and supporters.

• Send out club newsletters highlighting upcoming events and how people can get involved.
• Invite former players to attend watch parties, coaching sessions, or exhibition matches.
• Offer incentives for lapsed members to return, such as discounted membership or social events.

By making it easy for past players and fans to re-engage, your club can benefit from their experience and enthusiasm.