Getting the Word Out to the Sailors
- Firm up your dates as early as possible.
- Announce dates of next year’s event at this year’s event – send participants home with a flyer: “Mark your calendar for next year…”
- Put your date on every possible calendar, newsletter and web site (request links to your web site):
- Regional Sailing Associations
- Yacht Clubs (get the list from the RSA secretary)
- One-Design Class Associations
- Regional sailing magazines (2-3 month lead times – you can never give them dates too early).
- US Sailing will add your event to their online calendar. Add your event to other online calendars.
Post your NOR on your JO webpage early. (US Sailing will link to your JO site.) - Post your event to Facebook.
- Send a message to junior program directors in your area.
- Send an email to all your sailing program kids.
- Keep a mailing list of past participants; send 2 NORs and ask them to bring a friend.
- Get lists from class associations.
- Advertise in class newsletters/websites, local papers, etc.
- Closer to the event, call the junior program directors and/or instructors and coaches; ask them how many kids they plan to bring.
Attracting New Sailors Is a Key Part of Junior Olympic Sailing!
- To attract new sailors for your festival activities, invite the local Boy and Girl Scout troops.
- Contact your local Parks & Rec. Dept., YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, etc. Encourage coaches and parents to bring soccer/little league teams for a free sail.
- Put a poster up at the YMCA and other youth hangouts. Be sure to say that nonsailors are welcome.