Whether you're organizing a soccer match, a hockey game, or any type of sports event that falls in between, it’s the small details that matter. Creating a positive experience for fans, players, and staff alike is crucial to your success. From prepping the venue to outlining safety procedures, there are many different tasks that need to be done on game-day. Where do you even start? Follow this comprehensive sports checklist to know everything you should do on game-day, all in one spot.
Before the Game Starts
Before the Game Starts
Pre-Game Communication
- Provide instructions: Provide the visiting team with a document that includes the following:
- Any screening requirements needed prior to entry to the venue.
- Confirm kickoff time and match length.
- Availability of locker room and/or meeting space.
- Rules for use of the athletic training facility, if needed.
- Confirm permits: Assure you have followed all legal requirements and acquired the proper permits and insurance needed for the game to take place.
- Print off roster: Have three copies of your roster (for you, referee, and opposing coach), complete with each player’s name and uniform number.
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Prep your team: Communicating with your own team is important in your sports checklist. Confirm times to be dressed and ready for warm up, and when the match starts.
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Venue Preparation
5. Cleaning and disinfecting: All facilities, including restrooms, locker rooms, seating areas, and team benches should be cleaned prior to both practice and the match.
6. Inspect facilities: The playing field, court, or rink should be free of rocks, debris, or other hazards to prevent any accidents.
7. Venue is properly marked: Ex: goals are anchored, nets are fastened, cones are placed, etc.
8. Parking: Make sure adequate parking is available and well-marked for fans.
9. Ticketing: Streamline the ticketing process using Passage to keep wait times down with lightning-fast ticket scanning. Schedule a virtual demo with Passage to learn how to make this essential part of your sports checklist possible.
Team and Player Accommodations
10. Stock locker rooms: Should be stocked with supplies for player’s comfort, like towels, water, and medical supplies.
11. Hydration: Keep players well-hydrated by providing water jugs and water coolers filled with ice, water, and energy drinks.
12. Inspect equipment: Before using, equipment should be inspected to confirm it is in good working condition and meets safety standards.
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Technical Requirements
13. Broadcasting set-up: Coordinate with the broadcasting teams to ensure camera placements, lighting, and sound systems are optimized for live coverage.
14. Wifi connectivity: Check to make sure that the wifi connection is up and running for media personnel and fans.
Safety Procedures
15. Have a contingency plan in place: Have a set plan for how to handle unexpected weather changes, issues with fans, and more.
16. Medical team: Have a medical team on standby to readily address any injuries or medical emergencies.
17. Evacuation plan: Brief all staff and team members on the emergency protocols, like quick evacuation procedures.
18. Confirm player medical history records: Confirm medical history of all players and conditions that may affect their playing like allergies, asthma, etc.
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During the Game
Promotion
19. Take photos: Well-shot photos are useful for future promotional efforts.
20. Post real-time updates on social media: Get the best action shots out on social media to keep fans informed online and excited about attending the next game.
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Manage Operations
21. Review plays and game strategies: Make player substitutions when needed, change game tactics, and so on.
22. Address fan questions: Be ready to handle any questions or concerns from guests and ensure they have a positive experience.
After the Game Ends
Closing
23. Congratulate both teams: Don’t forget to give both your team and the opposing team positive feedback and a “congratulations” for their hard work.
24. Verify final scores: Follow up with the referee to verify the final score, then communicate that to media outlets and fans.
25. Pay officials: Thank officials for their time and provide payment.
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Clean-Up
26. Pick up trash: Maintain the venue’s cleanliness by helping to clean up any trash that may have been left behind.
27. Collect equipment: Collect and store any gear left out.
Get Out There!
Following this sports checklist will help you organize an engaging and safe game for all players and attendees. Don’t forget to set up online ticketing when planning your event. With features built for sports events like season passes, assigned seating, merchandise sales, and more, Passage is your go-to platform for online ticketing with a kick. See how easy it is to get started by setting up a virtual demo with our support team today.
