Originally Posted by
Spudulika
I know it sounds heretical, however we can all appreciate this as sports supporters - have a look at what the GAA does and borrow/steal a few things! The IRFU did and look how they have increased their numbers and standing. One very simple thing that comes out from GAA dictat (as well as being bred/beat - pronounced 'bet' into trainee teachers) is get into the Primary schools. It can be laid down from on high (FAI) or in a concerted effort from the local club, and co-ordinated with amateur clubs. Send in players to give free coaching lessons in local schools and give out prizes of tickets etc, then you have a link to the next generation and grab the parents in too. If clubs already have football camps that's good, but those families are looking for low cost babysitting or are committed to football anyway. You need to tap into the masses too. We did it with a rugby club I worked with, where the local football club sat on their haunches as the only game in town, within a year we had 80 kids training each weekend, almost all from the schools, and it's maintained the momentum. It was tough to begin with but you need to stick at it.
Bookmarks