1. State of the Game A discussion on the sport of softball in Michigan
Hosted by USA Softball of Michigan and USA Softball of Metro Detroit

2. Session Topics Is softball really a dying sport?
Marketing for local leagues.
Innovative Trends and Best Practices?

3. The State of Sanctioned Softball
Local Leagues Declining Yes
Nearly a loss of 200 adult teams in Michigan from 2015 to 2016
Tournaments Declining Yes
Tournament Participation is down on 31% in the last 5 years
Umpire registration Declining Yes
Average age of umpires is increasing. Less opportunity, more “issues”
Youth Travel Leagues Rising Yes

4. The Question is Why?
USA Softball of Michigan has surveyed league and tournament teams since 2008 and asked this question.
Time
Cost
Competition

5. Marketing Your Local League
Traditional marketing no longer works
Protecting your “Brand”
Make it Personal
Testimonials are huge
Competitor Creeping
How are they getting new teams/umpires
Don’t be afraid to work WITH them (segmenting the softball world – no one wins!)

6. The Story of Your League
What sets you apart from your competition
Top 10 reasons to play ABC League
Defining your message
Utilizing Social Media
Create a buzz
Q & A / Rule Interpretations
Feel Good Stories
Sponsor Highlight
Polls and Competition
Engage participants
Facebook Live and Periscope

7. Getting Sponsors More than just Ballfield Banners
Exposure and impressions are key
League Photos w/ embossed logo
Web Site / Facebook
Send them copies
Allow them access when possible (Hungry Howie's and Planet Fitness)
Sponsors don‘t want to be regarded in a negative light
Don’t over promise results

8. Innovative Trends and Best Practices
Power Coed
Played with 7 men and 3 Women
No two females batting back-to back in the order
Defensive line up (1 female in infield, 1 outfield, 1 pitcher or catcher)
5 v 5 in 5
Played with three teams of 5 (or 6 if Coed)
Teams rotate Batting - - > Infield - - > Outfield
Played in 5 Innings
Women’s and Senior Leagues
Utilize shorter fields if possible
How to deal with dominant teams

9. Innovative Trends and Best Practices
Social Clubs and Super Drafts
Operate like youth recreation programs
Non-Traditional Offerings
Modified Pitch – combines several aspects of the game
16” Softball
Creative HR Rules
Use as a way to classify upper v lower teams
Designated HR Hitter (multiple at bats)
Handicap Rule
Being creative with awards – SWAG
More than T-Shirts.
Spring Training Leagues

10. Innovative Trends and Best Practices
Umpire Training and Recruitment
Develop a Mentor/Mentee program
Average lifespan of a recreation umpire is 3-5 years
2 Man system helps to develop skills, ability and confidence
Training Opportunities – Point System
Be selective with ballplayer turned umpires
Local umpire reward system

11. Questions and Comments?
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