Back to school promotions usually entail school supplies for kids, maybe a spa day for the parent who was in charge of the kids all summer (it’s not always the mom), and hitting up the football games with the street team. What about the other sports that would like some attention?
I was mainly focused on soccer when I was in high school and that sport got zero love. Golf, tennis, swimming…all the above didn’t come close to having the attention football and basketball received. You can change that just by being there! Plus, going to a sport the kids wouldn’t expect makes this promotion that much more interesting.
Golf, for instance…with Happy Gilmore 2 out you can bank on more students showing up to the matches…especially if you announce you’re showing up with Street Team and station logoed golf balls! But remember! You have to stay quiet…which adds to the fun. Don’t forget to get giant heads made of the on-air staff to bring to the matches. If the coach and athletic director think it will be too much of a distraction, ask if you can show up an hour before the match and announce you’ll be on the course. It should bring a new fan group; and they may even stay to watch!
When it comes to soccer…this should be easy! Soccer is an exciting sport! (I may be partial) You can be loud! Bring those giant on-air heads on a stick for the crowd. Lanyards with your station logo would be good to give out (students love putting keys and little wallets on lanyards.) Make an impact, like you do for football! Again, you really only need an hour for these types of appearances. Ask to do the coin toss if they have one.
Swimming: Show up with an inflatable duck floatie that goes around your waist, snorkel and goggles, and flippers. Don’t forget your station shirt, though. Use the same idea as the other sports…just be there! Again, lanyards would be a good giveaway.
Don’t stop there! Randomly show up at chess matches, debate team finals, scholastic bowls…the same sports in every school get the most attention. Help the students who struggle to get an audience. This is a huge impact on those students AND the community.