A brand new competition for clubs from across the sporting spectrum is launched today at www.clubforce.com.  The idea was first introduced at the Sport for Business 20/20 event held in November and has already generated substantial interest.
Clubs are invited to nominate themselves to participate in a multi discipline tournament spread over June 22nd and 23rd 2013 in Galway City.  The events will include traditional sports as well as an eclectic mix of mind games, orienteering and cultural events.
“Teams will have to draw on the whole of their membership, rather than just those who are physically the strongest,” said Neil Carney speaking to Sport for Business last night.  “The club has always been as much about those behind the scenes as those out competing on the field of play.  Clubforce will allow everybody to play their part.”
The overall prize for the winning club will be a substantial €10,000 but it is in the competition, fundraising and preparation that clubs who engage in this the first year may gain the greatest benefit.
Part of the event will be a ClubForce conference event which will look at different aspects of the governance and running of a successful sports club.
Companies who wish to get involved as commercial partners in the event can contact the organisers through www.clubforce.com.
[ismember] The event is being organised by Neil Carney who has been involved in organising major events from the Special Olympics to the Volvo Ocean Race and the Asian Games, and has already drawn support from support services around Galway and My Club Finances who will provide technical assistance to clubs through online fundraising tools.
These will assist in raising the €400 club entry fee to participate.  Any fundraising activity undertaken in support of the event will remain wholly with the club and it does provide a focus for what will be a critical element of 2013 for many clubs large and small.
There are 12,000 sports clubs throughout the country across more than 60 different sports.  They are the heart of grassroots sport and this initiative will help to focus on the many different talents that go to make up each of them.
Key take away for Sport: The tournament and surrounding events are intended to encourage greater overall participation from members of sports clubs.  It will have different events to cater for the many strengths that might otherwise remain hidden and could provide a base for clubs to revive and inspire their membership as well as raising funds.
Key Take away for Business: With clubs at the heart of grassroots sport, this is a great opportunity to get involved in a partnership that reaches beyond individuals or teams and will draw in players, parents, volunteers and local businesses.  It is different in a positive way and that is of value in itself.[/ismember]
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