SPARC introduces new online resource for clubs

9 October 2007

For Immediate Release

SPARC introduces new online resource for clubs

Running a sports club has just become significantly easier thanks to a new online resource that provides useful information and practical tools to help clubs operate more efficiently and effectively.

Designed for clubs of all sizes, SPARC’s Club Kit provides helpful tips and resources for sports club managers and other club volunteers whose volunteer time keeps clubs active and vibrant.

“Running a club doesn’t need to be complicated,” said Gillian Peacock, SPARC’s project manager for volunteers and officials. “We know people don’t have much time, so Club Kit provides answers to the problems clubs often face -- like managing finances and trying to attract more members.”

The Club Kit resource, available online at www.sparc.org.nz, includes position descriptions for volunteers, marketing, media and events management, along with governance and business planning resources.

Although SPARC has a set of resources for national sport organisations, Club Kit has been specifically written for volunteers and clubs.

“Our ultimate goal is to create a sport and recreation sector where people want to volunteer and the contribution that people make is supported and valued,” said Peacock.

Bowls New Zealand has recently used sections from Club Kit to develop its own online programme called Club Plan. It’s hoped that 60 bowling clubs will sign up to the programme this year.

“We need to help clubs think about their future and give them the tools they need to operate efficiently,” said Bowls New Zealand Operation Manager Stephen Clifton. “It’s about creating a network of clubs that can work together to be more effective in recruitment, financial management, volunteer management and all of the other issues today’s clubs face.”

Peacock said that SPARC intends to continue updating its Club Kit on a regular basis, adding new ideas and programmes that have met with success on the ground.

“If a club has been successful in a particular area, then we want to be able to share that information across the sector,” added Peacock. “We can accomplish that by constantly adding new information that might be of value to other clubs.”

SPARC’s new Club Kit is available online at www.sparc.org.nz.

“It’s a simple resource to help get your club pumping,” said Peacock.

SPARC is the government agency charged with promoting, encouraging and supporting sport and physical recreation in New Zealand. For more information, visit www.sparc.org.nz.

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