DISCLAIMER: The information shared on the Off Court Ops blog is based on my own experiences as a parent, coach, team manager, club volunteer and junior sport administrator. The ideas, opinions and suggestions provided are intended as general guidance and may not be suitable for every family, team, club or situation.
My experience is primarily within junior community sport in South West Western Australia, including AFL, basketball and football (soccer), with a focus on primary school-aged participants. Every child, family, club, sport, region and age group is different, so what works in one setting may not work in another. Always consider your own family circumstances, club policies, governing body requirements and local context when applying any advice shared on this website.
The 5 Posts Every Club Should Publish Before Registrations Open

The 5 Posts Every Club Should Publish Before Registrations Open

Are you posting "Registrations are now open" and then wondering why nobody signs up?

The reality is families need multiple touchpoints before they take action. Post these 5 posts before your registrations open...

 

1. The "Save the Date" Post

When: 3-4 weeks before registrations open

Purpose: Create awareness.

Don't ask people to register yet. Just let them know registration season is approaching.

Example:
Basketball registrations for Term 4 will open on 1 August. Keep an eye on our page for all the details, including age groups, training times and fees.

This gives families time to start thinking about next season.


2. The "Why Join Us?" Post

When: 2-3 weeks before registrations open

Purpose: Remind people why your club exists.

Focus on:

  • Community
  • Development
  • Friendships
  • Fun
  • Pathways

Not registrations.

Example:
Photos of players training, celebrating, helping teammates or enjoying game day.

Families join communities, not registration forms.


3. The "What You Need to Know" Post

When: 1-2 weeks before registrations open

Purpose: Remove uncertainty.

Answer questions such as:

  • Age groups
  • Costs
  • Training locations
  • Playing days
  • Uniform requirements
  • New player information

The fewer unknowns, the more likely families are to register.


4. The "Registrations Open Soon" Post

When: 2-3 days before opening

Purpose: Create urgency.

Example:
Registrations open this Monday at 9am. Returning players are encouraged to register early to assist with team planning.

This prepares families to take action when the link becomes available.


5. The "Registrations Are Open" Post

When: Launch day

Purpose: Drive action.

Keep it simple.

Include:

  • Registration link
  • Who can register
  • Closing date
  • Contact details

Most importantly:

Only give people one thing to do.

Don't include six graphics, a newsletter link, a sponsor thank you, three announcements and a fixture update.

Just:
Register here.

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