Lax Doctor

Team Fundraising

admin | September 28, 2008

The other day our club team gathered for the first time this year. I must say it was pretty exciting to step back on the field. In addition to the standard rules and expectations, we were in search of some fundraising ideas. The team is allocated a certain amount of money; the rest is up to us players to produce. While we could all fork over a few hundred dollars, fundraising seemed to be a much better alternative to hefty dues. While fundraising can be a nauseas at times, it can also return meaningful sums of money. In addition to the standard bake sale or gift wrap flyer, here are some addition ideas.

Team clothing - This one is aimed at parents and players.

They are going to want team gear anyway, why not turn it into a fundraising effort. With a simple design, and screen printing done at a local shop, a bulk order of shirts can be printed for between $4.00 and $6.00 each (depending on volume, complexity, and the number of colors). Sell the shirts for $12.00 to $18.00 and you’ve got a good start.

If you don’t feel like working with a designer and print shop there are always services such as café press, custom ink, or zazzle; all of which have affiliate programs. Each of these services allows you to update your own design to their site, when your design sells you receive a percentage of the sale. Direct team members and parents to your online clothing store through a mass email, flyers, or link on your web site. Although the revenue is not as strong as printing shirts yourself, the ease of use is incredibly appealing.

Magnets and Accessories - Along the lines of team clothing

When clothing is just too much or you’re looking for a little extra, a simple magnet of the team mascot can be a great thing. Other ideas include stickers, lanyards, hats, and even team socks. This is another great café press project if you dont feel like sourcing your own magnets.

50/50 Raffle Tickets - For all those home game

At every game, or at just the big game, 50/50 tickets are a versatile fundraiser. Sell tickets for a price you choose and see where you get. Best scenario, your league banks a few hundred dollars, worst scenario; you’re out $10.00 buying tickets. (Staples or Office Max usually has tickets)

Authentic Lacrosse - A lacrosse specific affiliate program

Check out the product line of stick stringing supplies at www.authenticlacrosse.com . Authentic Lacrosse has two specific programs that appeal greatly to teams. The first is a simple, web run, link based, affiliate program. Signup as an affiliate and post the provided link to your team (or anyone for that matter). When anyone uses your link and purchases from Authentic Lacrosse you receive a percentage of the sale.

In addition to the affiliate program, Authentic Lacrosse runs a custom team kit program. They will put together a team stringing kit for you and will even include a custom header with your logo. The more kits you purchase, the greater your discount. The bulk kits are shipped to you and can be sold at any event. Send them an email at sales@authenticlacrosse.com to learn more.

Team Calendar - For the creative mind

A simple calendar can not only solve scheduling problems but, is a great fundraiser for any time of the year. Ask your local print shop (or Google) for suggestions. Some things to think about: who will design the calendar? Will it include team pictures? Who will print it? How will it be assembled? Price and profit?

Roster Card - Simple and useful

An incredibly useful project can be as simple as a team roster. Make it durable and laminate it! The roster does not need to be an entire sheet; in fact, a roster that can fit on a keychain is much more helpful. Include jersey number and name, possibly grade if your teams consist of multiple grades. Make an individual roster card for each team.

Other Fundraising Ideas - A short list

Golf outing, car wash, auction, raffle, bake sale, dinner banquet, bingo, game night, concessions, local coupon books, alumni donations.

In addition to comments, please feel free to leave your own fundraising ideas!