Winter sports arrive fast. The winter season has packed schedules, tournaments, holiday breaks, and finals on top of everything else athletic directors need to manage. That’s why athletic departments that get prep work done in October have a clear advantage.
Here’s what to tackle in October, so December runs smoothly.
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1. Refresh Staff Training Before the Rush
Even if your fall staff returns for winter sports, the challenges evolve. Indoor venues have different entry points, multiple games per week are more common, and holiday schedules create staffing gaps. Setting up winter operations in October means:
For schools adding new tools like GoFan digital ticketing, October is the time to get staff comfortable using GoFan. A prepared team helps every event run smoothly from the first tip-off.
2. Set Up Consistent Processes Across All Winter Sports
Early prep gives everyone a clear start. Athletic departments can establish:
This is also a good time to update winter rosters in MaxPreps, so stats and schedules are accurate from the start. When everyone starts the season on the same page, schools avoid confusion mid-season.
3. Communicate Early with Families
October can be a big holiday planning month for families. Athletic departments can use this time to:
If a school uses the NFHS Network to stream winter events, giving families that information before gives them time to set up accounts before the season starts. Early communication builds trust and helps families support student-athletes even if they can’t make it to the event.
4. Build Excitement with Early Promotion
Weeks before the start of winter sports can be a great time to build anticipation and excitement. Athletic departments can maximize their promotion by:
Schools using PlayOn Sites can have their athletic site updated with fresh content, while Fan Zone can automate match-up graphics and season schedules that are posted directly to social channels.
5. Test Systems with Low-Stakes Events
If a school hosts preseason scrimmages, youth camps, or community events in November, those are ideal for test runs. Athletic departments can:
When December arrives, your teams will be ready for packed gyms and tournament nights.
6. Launch a Student Broadcast Program
Starting an NFHS Network Student Broadcast Program before winter can give schools a head start in having a dynamic production. Basketball is a great sport for students to learn production skills in a fast-paced setting.
Athletic departments can use this time to:
Schools streaming with the NFHS Network can involve students in a way that prepares them beyond high school and builds technical skills. Starting in October means students are confident and capable by the time important matchups begin in December and January.
Start Now to Stay Ahead
Winter sports move fast. Being proactive in October allows athletic departments to focus on what matters during the winter season: supporting the athletes and creating great experiences for communities.