Assume you have been chosen to market a Womens Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA) Roller Derby Regional Tournament. The event will be three days long featuring some of the best roller derby teams in the region. The top three teams will advance to the WFTDA National Tournament. Flat track roller derby is a contact, team-sport featuring two teams of five players on the track at once. Since the sport first gained prominence in 2001, it has grown to include teams in more than 400 leagues. Leagues are mostly made up of young (2030-year-old), amateur, all-girl teams who compete at local roller rinks. Through the sport, organizers hope to promote a positive, athletic, strong, female image. Organizers are hoping to attract a large audience to attend the 3-day event.
In a Word document, 12-pt, Times New Roman font, answer the below questions. The SWOT Analysis can be in the form of a typical SWOT Analysis but please make sure to elaborate on what you have included.
Why would it be important for you to develop a marketing plan for this event?
What types of information would you need to market this event?
Do a SWOT analysis for this event
What would be some appropriate goals and measurable objectives?
How would you evaluate the success (or failure) of your marketing plan?
Marketing Plan for the WFTDA Roller Derby Regional Tournament
Importance of Developing a Marketing Plan
Developing a marketing plan for the WFTDA Roller Derby Regional Tournament is crucial for several reasons:
1. Audience Engagement: A well-structured marketing plan will help identify and engage potential audiences, including roller derby enthusiasts, families, and sports fans in the region. Engaging these groups is essential for building excitement leading up to the event.
2. Branding and Image: The tournament is an opportunity to promote the positive, athletic, and strong female image associated with roller derby. A marketing plan can effectively communicate these values to a broader audience, enhancing the brand identity of the sport.
3. Sponsorship Opportunities: A clear marketing strategy can attract sponsors who align with the values of roller derby. This can provide additional funding and resources necessary for a successful event.
4. Ticket Sales: An effective marketing plan will drive ticket sales, ensuring that the event is financially viable and can be a recurring feature in future years.
5. Community Involvement: Marketing efforts can foster community involvement and partnerships with local businesses, which can enhance the event's visibility and support.
Information Needed to Market the Event
To effectively market the tournament, the following information would be needed:
1. Target Audience Analysis: Understanding demographics such as age, interests, and locations of potential attendees.
2. Competitive Analysis: Identifying other local events happening around the same time to avoid conflicts and capitalize on potential synergies.
3. Budget: Establishing a budget for marketing efforts, including online advertising, print materials, and promotional activities.
4. Key Messages: Crafting compelling messages that highlight the excitement of roller derby, the athleticism of the participants, and the community spirit involved.
5. Marketing Channels: Deciding on the best platforms for promotion (social media, local newspapers, radio, etc.) and how to utilize them effectively.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths Weaknesses
- Strong community support from local roller derby leagues. - Limited awareness of roller derby among non-fans or general public.
- Established regional teams with dedicated fan bases. - Potentially high costs associated with marketing and event organization.
- Promotion of positive female athleticism and empowerment. - Reliance on weather conditions if held outdoors or in unseasonable venues.
- Unique sporting event not commonly found in many areas. - Limited resources for professional marketing expertise.
Opportunities Threats
- Growing interest in women's sports and empowerment initiatives. - Competition from other sporting events or entertainment options during the same period.
- Potential partnerships with local businesses for sponsorships and promotions. - Economic downturns affecting discretionary spending on entertainment.
- Use of social media to engage younger audiences who are active online. - Risk of injuries during games that could deter attendance or participation.
Goals and Measurable Objectives
Goals:
1. Increase overall attendance at the tournament by 30% compared to last year’s event.
2. Enhance community engagement by partnering with at least five local businesses for sponsorship or promotional opportunities.
3. Build a robust online presence through social media channels, increasing followers by 50% in the three months leading up to the tournament.
Measurable Objectives:
1. Sell out at least 75% of available tickets by one week before the event.
2. Achieve a minimum of 500 social media interactions (likes, shares, comments) per post during the promotional period.
3. Conduct at least three community events leading up to the tournament to generate buzz and engagement.
Evaluating Success or Failure of the Marketing Plan
To evaluate the success (or failure) of the marketing plan, I would implement the following methods:
1. Attendance Metrics: Compare actual attendance figures against projected goals to assess reach and engagement.
2. Financial Analysis: Review ticket sales revenue, sponsorship income, and overall event expenses to determine financial viability.
3. Social Media Analytics: Use analytics tools to track engagement rates across social media platforms, measuring growth in followers, interaction rates, and reach of promotional content.
4. Post-Event Surveys: Conduct surveys with attendees to gather feedback on their experience, what attracted them to attend, and suggestions for improvement.
5. Community Partnerships Evaluation: Assess success based on partnerships formed with local businesses and their impact on attendance and visibility.
Through these evaluation methods, insights gained will guide future marketing efforts and enhance the effectiveness of subsequent events.
This comprehensive marketing plan outlines critical elements that will contribute to successfully promoting the WFTDA Roller Derby Regional Tournament while aligning with broader goals of empowering women through sports and fostering community engagement.