August 2023

5 Ways to Get Ready for Fall Sports

The new school year is just around the corner; kids are preparing for another year of learning, friendships, and experiences, and mothers are rejoicing everywhere! Whether it’s vocabulary tests, after school clubs, or sports, your kids are going to be kept pretty busy, and you want them to have the best and safest year possible.

The benefits of getting children physically active at a young age are numerous. According to The Aspen Institute, physically active children are 15% more likely to attend college, score up to 40% higher on tests, and are 1/10th as likely to be obese.

Whether this is their first year or their last participating in sports, every child wants to perform the best they can. Every parent wants their child to have a good time while also staying safe so they can keep playing the sports they love now and lead healthier and more successful lives later. 

Here are some tips on things to help you keep your athlete safe and have a successful season.

Protective Gear - (mouth-guards, pads, shin guards, face masks, knee braces, etc.)
Getting the right gear is key to minimizing potential for injury, and also minimizing recovery time. The right equipment can help decrease the severity of injury as well. Be sure to review all the things you need to help keep your all-star safe to enjoy the game, and to stay in the game. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is especially true when it comes to finding and using the right protective gear.

Equipment - gloves, bats, balls, uniform, shoes
Every athlete knows that having equipment to practice with is important to becoming the MVP. Equipment is also what helps them to connect with their team and play the sports they know and love.

Physical
Every child needs to receive a clean bill of health before participating in sports. By getting a sports physical, concerns such as activity-induced asthma, scoliosis, joint pain, heart problems, vision and hearing impairments, etc., can all be caught prior to the sports season, and preventative or aiding measures can be taken to ensure your child is still able to participate.
                   
Concussion Baseline Test
What is a baseline test? Baseline testing is a highly specific questionnaire that is taken prior to getting injured. With this information, individuals can have data to compare to if they get injured later on. Regardless of what sport they are playing, head injuries are always a risk for any type of sport including basketball, football, wrestling, volleyball, lacrosse, soccer and more.

This test measures a few things including processing speed, current symptoms, pain levels, balance, and physical abilities.The starting of a new sport season is the perfect time to get tested.

Why is it important?

Read the rest of the article here

Building a brand in youth sports involves creating a strong identity and reputation that resonates with your target audience, whether it's players, parents, coaches, or the community. Here are some steps to help you build a brand in youth sports:

1. Define Your Brand Identity:Determine what sets your youth sports program apart from others. Identify your core values, mission, and vision. Consider the type of experience you want to provide for participants, the values you want to instill, and the goals you want to achieve. This forms the foundation of your brand identity.

2. Develop a Unique Logo and Visual Identity: Create a visually appealing and distinctive logo that represents your youth sports program. Choose colors, fonts, and graphics that reflect your brand's personality and resonate with your target audience. Consistency in your visual identity across various platforms helps in brand recognition.

3. Build a Strong Online Presence: Establish a professional website and create social media accounts for your youth sports program. Regularly update these platforms with engaging content, such as team updates, player spotlights, achievements, and upcoming events. Use these channels to communicate your brand's message and connect with your audience. Leverage our Travelsports platform to help you increase your audience reach!

4. Engage with the Community: Actively engage with the local community to build relationships and promote your brand. Participate in community events, sponsor local initiatives, and collaborate with schools, clubs, or organizations. Supporting community causes and being visible in the community enhances your brand's reputation and fosters trust. 

5. Offer Exceptional Coaching and Programming: Provide high-quality coaching and programming that aligns with your brand values and goals. Focus on creating a positive and inclusive environment that prioritizes player development, sportsmanship, and personal growth. Positive experiences will generate word-of-mouth referrals and enhance your brand's reputation.

6. Provide Outstanding Customer Service: Prioritize excellent customer service in all interactions with players, parents, and coaches. Promptly respond to inquiries, address concerns, and maintain open lines of communication. Going above and beyond to provide exceptional service builds trust and loyalty among your audience.

7. Leverage Partnerships and Sponsorships: Collaborate with local businesses, sponsors, or sports-related organizations to enhance your brand's visibility. Seek partnerships that align with your values and can provide support, resources, or sponsorship opportunities. Co-branding and strategic collaborations can expand your reach and credibility.

8. Create a Positive Team Culture: Foster a positive team culture that promotes sportsmanship, respect, and teamwork. Encourage values-driven behavior and celebrate achievements both on and off the field. A strong team culture creates a sense of belonging and attracts participants who resonate with your brand's values.

9. Showcase Success Stories: Highlight success stories of your players and teams to showcase the impact and positive outcomes of your youth sports program. Share testimonials, achievements, and personal stories through your website, social media, or local media outlets. Positive stories inspire others and reinforce your brand's credibility.

10. Seek Feedback and Continuously Improve: Regularly seek feedback from participants, parents, and coaches to understand their experiences and identify areas for improvement. Use this feedback to refine your programs, address concerns, and enhance the overall brand experience. Continuously evolving and adapting will help your brand stay relevant and meet the evolving needs of your target audience.

Building a brand in youth sports takes time, consistency, and dedication. By focusing on creating a positive experience, delivering quality programming, and engaging with the community, you can establish a strong brand presence that resonates with your audience and sets your youth sports program apart.
 

Dog Days of Stink!

It's summer time which means not only is the temperature going up but so are the germs in your player's sports equipment!! If your player is in-between sports, then this is a great time to do a thorough cleaning of all your sports equipment. We’ve put together a brief article on how best to clean your sports equipment along with links to a few cleaning items to help out. Happy Cleaning!! 

Here are some general guidelines for cleaning various types of sports equipment:

Clothing and Gear:
• Clothing (jerseys, shorts, socks): Follow the care instructions on the clothing's label. Typically, machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid using fabric softeners as they can affect moisture-wicking properties.
• Protective Gear (pads, guards): Most protective gear can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific cleaning recommendations.
• Shoes: Remove dirt and debris by tapping the soles together or brushing with a soft brush. If they're washable, remove laces and insoles and clean with mild soap and water. Air dry thoroughly.

Balls:
• Soccer/Football: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Do not submerge in water. Keep balls properly inflated and store them in a cool, dry place.
• Basketball/Volleyball: Wipe the surface with a damp cloth. Clean seams with a soft brush. Avoid excessive moisture exposure.
• Tennis Balls: Can't be effectively cleaned, so replace them when they lose their bounce.
• Pucks: Rinse with ... Ah come on, we just added this to make sure you were paying attention. You DON'T clean pucks!

Helmets:
• Remove Pads and Liners: If possible, remove padding and liners according to the manufacturer's instructions. Hand wash them with mild soap and water. Allow them to air dry completely before reassembling.
• Outer Shell: Wipe the outer shell with a damp cloth. Do not submerge the entire helmet in water.

                                       

General Tips:
Regular Cleaning: Establish a routine for cleaning your sports equipment after each use or game to prevent the buildup of dirt and odors.
Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Some equipment may have specific cleaning recommendations.
Disinfection: For shared equipment or during times of illness, consider using disinfectant wipes or sprays to kill bacteria and germs.
Storage: Store equipment in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew growth.