The Business of Sport ‘Attracting, Organising and Financing Sport Events in Ireland’ O’Reilly Hall, UCD 28 th May 2004 Presentation by Mary Davis CEO - Special Olympics Ireland

Feasibility Study Conducted 1996 Needs analysis Financial projections Benefits to Ireland Bid requirements

Establish steering committee Submit letter of intent to international body Create awareness of the bid Letters of support Delivering a successful sports event Sponsorship Legacy The Bid

Vision A Games that the athletes would be proud to participate in and that Ireland would be proud to host

The Logo “Share The Feeling” Building the Brand

Creating the Identity A brand that everyone could contribute to and take something from A brand that everyone could feel connected to A brand that would communicate the vision of the Games A brand that would look good …..always

Communications Phases Phase 1: Fundraising & Sponsorship – Targeted at Government, European Union and corporate community to secure majority of required funding Phase 2: Calls to Action/Programmes – Targeted at wider community to secure Host Towns, Volunteers and Host Families. Support and awareness of School Enrichment Programme

Communications Phases contd Phase 3: Support an Athlete Programme – Programme aimed at entire community to raise €5 million and complete fundraising campaign Phase 4: Pre Games Build Up – Focused entirely on building excitement and anticipation before the Games

Communications Phases contd Phase 5: World Games – Bringing the excitement and pageantry of the World Games to an Irish and international audience

Planning Detailed Project Planning Documented plans for all projects Defined goals, objectives and deliverables Identified tasks, milestones, dependencies and risks Assigned resources

Consistent Delivery Venue Design Venue Team Structures Volunteer Empowerment Venue Operations – Venue Operating Plan – Training – Emergency Response Plans

Negotiation Manage internal & external stakeholders Understand stakeholders’ needs & expectations Ensure good communications with stakeholders at all times Negotiate with stakeholders to: – Avoid misunderstandings – Resolve conflict – Relieve stress – Agree priorities – Gain ongoing support & commitment

Managing Change Growth of organisation Structural changes Tempo changes

Legacy Confidence Trained volunteers 50m Swimming pool NGB equipment Special Olympics Network Enhancement of cultural awareness