Martin Reed

How to start up a new Octopush Club

Q.  If you're an Octopush player without a club, what do you do?
A.  Start up a new one.

It's really not that difficult, although it can be at bit daunting at first. Try following these easy steps. All alternative experiences, recommendations and contributions will be welcomed and incorporated.
Also see details on Mark Nakamura's page - very comprehensive.

• Identify a pool in which to host the club
• check available water time with local authority
• Devise poster to attract players - simple & eyecatching, with colour if possible. Also see the B.O.A.'s range of posters
• Gauge demand
• put posters in local shops, leisure centres, sports clubs, libraries, schools/colleges/universities
• contact personnel departments & sports clubs of large local companies
• Obtain presentation media - videos, demo equipment etc.
• Hire a small hall - hold presentation
• get existing male, female, youth & junior players from nearby clubs to attend and speak
• sell the idea
• Arrange hire of pool for one-off trial session - convenient day of week at convenient time
• Write to local newspapers - supply poster, description of sport, date of trial session
• Hire/borrow equipment - masks, snorkels, fins, gulleys, pucks, pushers, caps
• Trial session
• get existing male, female, youth & junior players from nearby clubs to help
• remind local newspapers: make sure they cover the event
• Gauge resulting demand - get commitment of membership from attendees
• Form the club
• appoint Chairman, Manager & Treasurer. Team Captain to follow
• Identify club membership fees from cost of pool hire
• Collect membership fees from new members
• Commit to pool hire
• Organise courses, training etc.
• Contact other clubs to play matches
• Devise club "identity"
• Decide on club colours
• Design club logo - simple, eyecatching, visible at a distance
• Approach swimwear manufacturers for details of swimsuit designs
• Approach
• Approach clothing manufacturers for details of custom T-shirts, polo shirts, caps etc.
• Take swimwear & clothing orders from players
• Place orders with manufacturers
• Register club with British Octopush Association / national governing body
• Join local league
• Hold own tournament
• Buy trophy / medals / prizes
• Arrange pool hire - Saturday or Sunday mid-afternoon to mid-evening
• Identify entry cost per player or club, including food after the tournament
• Invite other clubs
• Arrange playing schedule, including contingency in the case of late-running
• Arrange buffet
• Ensure sufficient number of red referees caps, whistles, "stoppers" etc.

 

This list was inspired by the methods that Clare Ash used to set up Farnham & Guildford, a highly successful UK club with thriving mixed, ladies, youth and junior sections. All additions welcome.