How was your golf tournament in 2009? Any lessons learned? Did the tougher economy make a difference in participation or revenue? 2009 was a great tournament season but here is a glimpse at the good, bad and ugly:
GOOD
Most tournaments went ahead as scheduled and were not cancelled. Faithful sponsors recognized their support was needed more than ever.
Tournaments were forced to spend wisely, offering value to the sponsors and golfers. With tournament revenues down slightly and budgets reduced, tournaments needed to look at fresh ideas. This is a good thing – no more of the same old stuff.
Golfer numbers were up! Yes, only a few tournaments downsized. Many tournaments had more golfers as sponsors reduced the level of their financial support but golfed instead. This was a blessing in disguise for some, as increased golfers meant increased expenses.
BAD
Golfers registered even later than normal, making it impossible to plan or order the right number of logo’d golfer giveaways (not to mention nerve wracking for the tournament chairs). Golfers are notorious for registering the month before the event. This year we found golfers signing up just a couple of weeks (or days) before the event.
Tournaments delayed decisions. Unsure of golfer counts, tournaments delayed their decisions about ordering tournament merchandise and getting logos for signs. We offered golfer gloves and Capture Action gifts, items that can be ordered closer to tournament date. AND the tournament only paid for the gifts they gave away on tournament day, spending money wisely.
Tournament coordinators were talking to more vendors and getting many more quotes. Unfortunately this never really saves money. Tournaments should invest time working with their sponsors and potential donors, not searching the internet to save $100.
UGLY
Tournament coordinators got stuck. Vendors went out of business, with no notice. Work with vendors you can trust.
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