SDF points sporting associations to social media

THE MARKETING and promotion of local sporting associations was the main subject of a seminar put on by the Sports Development Foundation (SDF) recently. More than 30 sporting associations were in attendance, to be educated on social media and how it can be used to broaden their exposure.

Among the four panellists was Kareem ‘Boyatinz’ Weathers, who expertly expounded the benefits of new-age media.

“We are not pushing sports enough,” he explained.

Weathers, himself a radio presenter, was careful not to dismiss traditional media, because, according to him, it works. However, he, along with the other panellists, was adamant that sporting associations should engage all the platforms available.

“Like taking one stone to kill many birds, or adding another arrow to the bow. The more, the merrier. The more information and content getting out, the better,” they pronounced.

“Social media has revolutionised the sports industry, providing an unparalleled platform for fan engagement, brand building and revenue generation. Whether you are a sporting association, a club, or an athlete, mastering social media can help you expand your reach, strengthen your fans base, and attract sponsorship opportunities,” said presenter Jhon-Marc Prince.

“The first thing you do is get someone to manage your social media pages. If you have budget constraints, look to the youngest among you. They are most capable with social media,” informed popular marketer and social media influencer Carla Hollingsworth.

Weathers, who is a track and field aficionado, pushed against the notion that content creators should pay to be accredited to cover events.

“This actually limits the coverage of the events,” he warned.

“We want to have as many creators as possible covering these meets and getting the information to the public immediately. We have to learn to move with the times,” said Weathers.

“There are content creators in every sporting discipline and you must make use of them,” he concluded.

General manager of the Sports Development Foundation, Allan Beckford, expertly tied social media to the overall accountability in the associations. “Social media contributes to that accountability framework, because, when people see what they’re doing, they see how the money is being spent and you see the activities of the association. We think, if we can teach our associations how to fish, they will be more successful associations,” Beckford contended.

It was concluded that social media is an avenue for growth when used strategically. If associations understand the platform dynamics, it can be used to engage audiences effectively. The creation of high-quality, genuine content can lead to monetisation opportunities. Sports associations and athletes can maximise their digital presence and make everlasting connections with fans.