Alberta Sport Leadership Conference, Edmonton, May 1–4, 2019
Alberta sport tourism leaders gathered the day before the annual Alberta Sport Leadership Conference in Edmonton to share event-hosting best practices. Topics addressed during roundtable discussions—led by representatives from Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray, Leduc, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Hockey Alberta—included how to enhance the athlete and attendee experience.
Before, during and after game time, offer activities that enhance the experience for athletes, their families and the local community:
- A discount program that encourages event attendees to frequent local restaurants, retailers and services
- Community barbecue or tailgate party
- Banquet or event featuring a celebrity guest speaker
- Pop-up market showcasing local vendors and artisans
- Carnival or winter fair where participants who try the sport stations can have a special passport stamped
Enhance attendance by inviting specific sectors of the local community to attend your event. This can include free admission for:
- New Canadians
- Local elementary schools
- Seniors and their families
Think outside your group:
- Offer volunteer opportunities to enthusiasts from across the province and throughout Canada
- Ask your local Royal Canadian Army Cadets to help with event set-up and teardown
- Ask local sports teams or cultural groups to volunteer at your event
- Share hosting best practices with local organizers of non-sport events, including festivals, concerts and fundraisers
