One clear observation going into 2010 is that it seems many of the tournaments are going to cost a fair amount more. I know this was a topic on some other threads but as I am starting to shop what's posted, it seems there have been some big increases. Adding to the cost of the tournament it also seems some of the gate fees at tournaments have increased. Just saw the Super NIT is $495 and $9 per for a gate fee. That's a tough nut considering the fields are "rough" to put it nicely and umpiring is....umm. well the same. Triple Crown costs are up too. Oh well, plan and prepare accordingly I guess.
It's going to be interesting figuring out which tournaments to go after.
rock44: Papa agrees. I think USSSA should pay us $9 each to play on these fields. Since the economy is so bad Papa will reduce the gate feel thay should pay him to $5. You ask why would we play if we feel this way. We play where the best teams are and the best teams that weekend will be there so that it where you will find us. We had planned on not going but after we saw the field that it is going to be there it appears that it will be hard to pass up. I also feel that Bubba is serious about addressing our issues and I fully realize that change doesn't happen overnight so I plan on giving him the time it will take to make these changes happen.
Why is this so hard for tournament promoters/directors to figure out?
Increase your tournament entry fee by 20% and eliminate the gate fee. Mom and dad are happy and invite grandma and grandpa. Bring the brothers and sisters too. They buy more concessions. Everyone is happy. Explain to the site host how traffic going to the concession stand will more than offset their loss of revenue at the gate.
Don't nickel and dime everyone to death. In a tight economy the gate fees could be the determining factor if some teams play in your tournament or go elsewhere to play.
Try charging a fair entry fee, no gate fee, and fill your tournaments with teams. Smile everytime grandpa buys some sunflower seeds or mom has 3 screaming kids wanting a hamburger/fries and a gatorade. Start to raise fees and watch teams avoid your tourneys. Just like any business, you can't make any sales without customers.
Papa thinks jscoda would do a great job as CEO of one of the Fortune 500 companies and if the directors keeps increasing their gate and tourney fees it won't be long until they are on the Fortune 500 list.
On the tournament site there is a post showing a memorial day tournament with no gate fee. (Webb Bridge) I guess if you don't get in the big dance in winder that would be the one to go to.
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Posted - 12/23/2009 : 13:17:10
