Most teams and leagues have a website as a central focal point for all activity and communication. Each week it seems that new forms of social media are being introduced.

How can your team/league capitalize on these tools?

Fan Page (Facebook, Weplay)
A Facebook Fan page is a great way to engage your players, parents and fans.

Pictures and videos can be shared along with comments of the game by all. WePlay.com offers a youth sports focused social network that can be compared to Facebook but is youth sports specific.

Instant/Text Messaging
Text Messaging is the ultimate communication tool for last minute changes. Wouldn’t it be nice to receive a text that practice will run thirty minutes longer, which would allow you to be more productive with your time other than waiting?

It also could be used to provide in game updates of the score, injury reports, and brief commentary.  Many companies can offer this messaging service. A new company called Scoretrax can allow your league to earn cash for each message sent out. Learn more at www.scoretrax.com

Team Blog/ Message Board
A team blog is another conversation piece where updated content can be provided, photos displayed and videos embedded. Current schedules, coaches’ notes, and parents’ discussions can all be shared on a message board.

Another opportunity for the blog is that it could be a communication portal for away games. Maps, game times and ticket prices are just a few ideas for the traveling parent and fan.

Picture page/ Share Group
Every parent has a camera on the sideline. Create an online photo album per game, season or per player.  What better way to boost players’ confidence than a great action shot of them during the game.  Pictures can be uploaded to various sharing sites and comments can be shared as well.  A great final product with any player or team photos is making a myESPN highlight DVD or book. These will keep the season memories alive forever.

Video Sharing
Video sharing sites such as Youtube not only provide opportunities for team and individual exposure, but also a password protected way for coaches to upload game clips for players to watch, critique and comment on. Now out of town relatives can see the games online too.

Share some of the unique ways your team is using social media.