No matter what size club you have, one thing is certain: you need to attract new members to it regularly, otherwise your club may cease to exist.
Attracting new members to your club is not easy but it’s doable. However, you need to make sure you’re not leaving it for the very last minute. Instead, be proactive about getting new members year-round and you’ll have an easy time attracting new members to your club.
Here are some practical tips:
1. Ensure a great First Impression - The club’s website, social media platforms and printed materials are often the first place someone will go to find information about the club. If the website is out of date and hard to use, it can leave the impression that the club is disorganised and unprofessional.
2. Encourage existing members to share the word - Word of mouth is the most effective recruitment tool. People are more likely to get involved if their mates are encouraging them to do so. If players and members enjoy being at the club, they will encourage others to get involved.
3. Organise a welcome event - The club running an AFL Skills session at the end of the summer season could give you an introduction to many new players and opportunities
4. Offer incentives to join - With the effects of COVID-19 reducing discretionary income for some families, there may be an added incentive to register for footy with a promotion or freebie when joining
Helpful links
Player Recruitment - A club’s ability to recruit new players is essential to club growth and sustainability.
Why do young people play sport - It is important to understand the key motivations as to both why kids play sport and why kids stop playing football.
Player Retention - Retention is a vital component when forming a strong and sustainable club. It will set the club up for future growth and success.