All great things. I don't post much but this topic is one very close to my heart. I think the focus on attendance is the key to our sports success. Format, 3-Event, Wakeboarding, Jump, Slalom only... none of this really matters if there's nobody there to watch. Our sport, our sponsors, our enthusiasts GROW when given the opportunity to show off the fun that can be had ON and OFF the water. The festival environment that Dana Reed was creating was a good start.
I think that fewer tournaments which highlight the sports better (not just the best) of our athletes is key. These tournaments can be weighted and head to head. BUT ALL FOR THE FUN. Like the Pro-AM's that exist, but for all events. A cash prize definitely helps, but that only comes with engaged sponsors who are benefiting from their involvement. This is where the reciprocal relationship becomes the reward (for sponsors and organizers). The best thing you can do for these sponsors is show a strong spectator base, even if these spectators don't know what they're watching on the water. Music, Beer, Vendors, Camping, a water skiing squirrel... whatever it takes to get people on the shoreline and beyond.
Keep junior development focused on just that. Host skills clinics in place of these every weekend self promoting tournaments in which participants show up, ski, and leave. These events are LONG and GRUELING for even the most dedicated of volunteers, which, with more and more sanctioning requirements by our governing body makes it harder and harder to staff. The benefit of these tournaments for the participants is what, to increase your rating?!? Why?
Focus on the fun. Focus on fostering talent. Exposing anyone who's interested to WHATEVER they'd like to try and get better at. Make it fun on the shore as well as behind the boat. Give Mom and Dad AND the kids something to look forward too.
We are more than a sport, we are a lifestyle.
Just my $.02, Thanks for listening!