Athletics are a big part of college life, not only for students but for visiting alumni. With cooler temperatures in the air, nothing creates an aura of excitement and nostalgia like a football game, heralded by the sounds of cheers and a marching band under a blanket of lights.
Whether your college or university has a football program, or you have basketball, baseball or another sport waiting in the wings, you want to be sure your athletic facilities are in top-notch shape. To borrow a term from football, maintenance of your facilities goes beyond just the turf.
What is the condition of locker rooms and training facilities? Equipment needs to be kept in good working order and locker rooms and showers should be clean and fresh smelling. This is important not only for student athletes, but for alumni who may want to visit these areas to reminisce about their own glory days.
Do you have adequate staff for before, during and after the event? A lot of work goes into preparing the area around the field (or gymnasium or arena). From bleachers to concessions and restrooms, facilities need to be operational and well-maintained. You need staff-on hand during the event, too, to handle such issues as clogged toilets, burned out lights and spilled drinks. You also need resources to clean-up quickly afterward.
What is your parking/traffic situation? Does the campus design allow for the free flow of cars, both into and out of the area? Your campus security may be enough to keep things moving, or other resources may be needed. Bottlenecks can end the game’s fun on a dour note when fans are tired and just want to get home.
Are you making the most of game day excitement? Athletic events are a great time to make contact with potential alumni donors, so consider planning a pre- or post-game reception that lets these VIPs mingle with staff and athletes and puts them in a giving mood.
Remember: It’s not just the athletic facilities in the spotlight at game time—your entire campus should look pristine and well maintained. Alumni attending events may want to stroll around for a look at things, and students are likely to invite parents into their dorms. Make sure everything is ready for visitors!
Athletic events are crucial to student recruitment and fundraising efforts. If you need help making your campus look great for game day—or every day of the year—let’s talk about your facilities management needs. You’ll be able to customize our services and fit within most any budget. We work with schools like Tennessee Wesleyan, LaGrange College and Faulkner University, and we can work with you, too!
Here’s to a picture-perfect kick-off! Go team!