I'm Back

Well, it is time for me to return to this blog. I had taken a break because I was coaching football, and did not have the time. Our team played our first 3 man tournament a few weeks ago. We got slapped. Something I had expected, but it was an eye opener. More to come later...

NCPA

The NCPA has updated their high school paintball page. If you have a club/team register it there. There is also alot of great information there for starting a club. NCPA High School List

A List of currently active Clubs in Chicago

I am going to start a list of active high school clubs. Right now I would like to keep it to the midwest area, prefereably the chicagoland area where my club is located. I know there is a list kept on the NCPL website, but I have tried to contact many of the "contacts" on that list to no avail. It seems that list is not maintained regularly.

Chicago
Willowbrook
St. Patrick High School
Lane Tech High School
Hinsdale Central ?

Student Recognition

While working on your club, do not underestimate how important student recognition is for the kids involved. This works for the club in two ways: keeping your current members regular and bringing potential members into your club.

Anyone who teaches, or has teens of their own knows that teens are intensely focused on "looking cool." You can do some things for your club to reward your kids with the attention they want.

First, get some jerseys. Don't go out and buy $60 jerseys as your first club purchase. Save your money for other things. You can, however, buy long sleeved shirts with your club's logo, and your kids' name and number on the back for about $15. Go to a local screen printing place for this. Charge $20 for the shirt, and you have your first fundraiser.

Second, Pictures and video. Take lots of both, and put it on your club's Facebook page. The first time I did this I was amazed to see how many of my kids changed their profile picture to a photo I took of them playing paintball. Kids love it.

Doing both of these things also exposes your club to other businesses (like when your kids wear their jerseys to your local field). All kinds of People will come and tell you how cool it is that you have a high school paintball club. Field owners and local shops will take notice too... something you want to happen.

Club Constitution

I have created a club constitution template with instructions. You may find the link to it HERE

Allowing non school members in your club

I allow parents and siblings of my high school members to join our outings. I even think it is a good idea to invite your Pricipal and other Administrators Why? I like to allow parents to come because it gets them involved in paintball, and shows it isn’t a violent sport. This is very important because parents can be your strongest advocates for your club.

Siblings under 18 and not attending the high school must have a parent along.

I DO NOT allow friends from other high schools to come! Why? because in my experience rivalries in some high schools run high. Nothing can ruin a club than a fight amongst its members. ESPECIALLY if you are trying to show everyone that paintball isn't violent!

Requests???

Please don't hesitate to put requests for specific things in the comments. I am here to make your job of starting a club easier!