Remember, you have to get the team involved in this event. The first thing you want to do is check with the governing body for high school sports in your state. Check with them to determine if there are rules or guidelines that restrict the participation of athletes in events such as yours.

 

The responses will vary from state to state. In some instances, athletes cannot participate in any activity that requires the use of their “skills.” This would eliminate them from participating in any shooting contests or even a game of basketball musical chairs.

 

In other states, the only restriction is on awards or prizes. Some restrict the value or type of prizes, and some prohibit any prize. Check carefully because a loss of eligibility is often the result of breaking these rules.

 

Once you have guidelines to work with, prepare two or three fan fun type activities that involve your team members (or members of all teams, if you include more than one). You may use the previously discussed fan fun events and have team members and coaches as contestants, or you may devise new events.

 

If you involve both the men’s and women’s teams, and you should, it is great to either have them compete head-to-head or in pairs consisting of members from both teams.

 

Don’t forget to get the coaches involved, but don’t spring any surprises on them. Keep the potential for embarrassment low if you want them to participate.

 

You might even talk with your coaches and get ideas from them. Allow them to “show off” a particular skill if appropriate. When dealing with coaches, try and provide them with an opportunity to “look good” in front of the students.

 

Fan Fun events can make or break an event. Be sure to spend time generating ideas and making improvements on those ideas. A great source of fan participation activities is Gameops.com. There is information on theme nights, fan fun events, and entertainment.