How to Set Up a Volleyball Tournament

Find a venue. Before you can set up a tournament you must have a place to play. Depending on the type of event (beach, indoor) you're planning, check out your local municipality's park and recreating department. They may have courts available to rent. Finalizing the venue and date is important to promote the event.

Obtain your permits and liability insurance. Go to your local government office to ensure that you apply for any necessary permits to run the tournament. Also, talk with the venue management or rec department about liability insurance. Often times, the site of your tournament holds insurance that you can sign on for as a "rider"--an amendment to a contract to have you fall under the protection of the policy.

Coordinate your staff and volunteers. You won't be able to do it alone so if you have a budget line for paid help, place an ad and start the hiring process immediately. Otherwise, find volunteer opportunities through colleges and charities. Many times, college students need community service hours as part of their curriculum. You'll need support in the following areas: registration, setup, officiating, first aid, concessions and general laborers.

Recruit sponsors. Although tournament participation fees will help offset costs, obtaining sponsors is beneficial. Sponsors can underwrite a lot of your overhead, including equipment, first aid, rental space, promotional items and advertising. In return, you'll provide these companies with recognition by placing their logos and company information on event collateral materials (programs, invitations, save-the date cards), radio and print ads, promotion items and event signage. Create a sponsor list of companies and contact their respective marketing departments. With most companies, you'll need a letter of request detailing your tournament and the benefits provided.

Advertise your tournament. With the date and location set and sponsors on board, promote your event. Advertising doesn't have to be about placing full-page ads in your local daily newspaper. You can print fliers on your computer and ask local businesses to put them up in their windows. Contact local newspaper and radio editors/news desks to submit the event on community calendars. Use social media, including Facebook and Twitter to electronically promote the event. If you have an advertising budget, contact media companies about their demographics and audience. This is important because the more people you reach the increased number of players you'll draw.

Be organized. Have your paperwork, volunteer assignments and tournament rules and format in place. Keep a timeline of the day's activities and who's responsible for what. If you cover your bases early, tournament day will run smoothly.