Sports Banquet Ideas: How to Plan an Unforgettable Team Celebration

Effective sports banquets extend beyond awards presentations—they create comprehensive experiences celebrating team culture, individual growth, and shared memories while providing closure to the season and building anticipation for future success. Athletic programs that excel at banquet planning create signature events athletes remember for years, strengthening program identity while deepening connections among teammates, families, and coaching staff.

Digital highlight displays create engaging focal points at sports banquets, allowing teams to relive season memories together

Planning Timeline: Setting Your Banquet Up for Success

Successful sports banquets require advance planning beginning well before the season ends.

8-10 Weeks Before Banquet

Initial Planning and Committee Formation

• Establish planning committee including coaches, parents, and athletic department representatives
• Set tentative date accommodating most team members and families
• Develop preliminary budget identifying funding sources
• Begin researching venue options and checking availability
• Create planning timeline with specific deadlines

Budget Development Key expense categories to plan for:

• Venue rental fees and facility charges
• Catering or food service costs
• Award purchases (trophies, plaques, certificates)
• Decorations and event setup materials
• Audio-visual equipment rentals
• Photography or videography services
• Printing costs (programs, invitations, certificates)

Most high school sports banquets budget $15-35 per attendee for basic events, while more elaborate celebrations may reach $40-60 per person depending on venue and meal choices.

4-6 Weeks Before Banquet

Invitations and Communication

• Send formal invitations to athletes, families, and special guests
• Create RSVP system tracking attendance numbers
• Communicate dress code and event expectations
• Share parking and facility access information
• Set RSVP deadline allowing adequate time for final planning

Program Development

• Finalize award categories and recipients
• Create ceremony script and timeline
• Prepare coach speeches and athlete remarks
• Compile season statistics and highlights
• Design and order printed programs

2-4 Weeks Before Banquet

Final Details and Confirmation

• Confirm final attendance count with caterer
• Review and finalize ceremony program
• Prepare award presentations and certificates
• Test audio-visual presentations and equipment
• Confirm all vendor arrangements
• Recruit volunteers for event setup and support

Week of Banquet

Final Preparations

• Confirm final headcount and special meal requirements
• Prepare name tags, place cards, or seating arrangements
• Review ceremony timing and participant roles
• Conduct walk-through at venue if possible
• Prepare backup plans for potential issues
• Gather all necessary materials and supplies

Schools implementing comprehensive end-of-year sports recognition programs find that detailed planning timelines ensure no critical elements get overlooked in busy end-of-season schedules.

Venue Selection: Creating the Right Atmosphere

The banquet location significantly impacts the event’s tone and participant experience.

Traditional Venue Options

School Facilities Advantages:

• Cost-effective or free for school teams
• Convenient location for participants
• Available athletic displays and school branding
• Familiar environment for students and families
• Easy access to AV equipment and resources

Considerations:

• Limited ambiance compared to off-site venues
• Potential scheduling conflicts with other events
• Basic cafeteria or gym settings requiring significant decoration
• Limited catering options in some facilities

Restaurants and Banquet Halls Advantages:

• Professional atmosphere and full-service offerings
• Complete meal preparation and cleanup services
• Dedicated event staff managing logistics
• Enhanced ambiance requiring minimal decoration
• Variety of menu options accommodating dietary needs

Considerations:

• Higher costs per attendee
• Limited customization of space and setup
• Noise levels in busy restaurants
• Size constraints for larger teams
• Travel requirements for some families

Athletic facility lounges create ideal banquet venues showcasing team trophies and achievements prominently

Community Centers and Clubhouses Advantages:

• Moderate costs with flexible options
• Adequate space for larger teams
• Kitchen facilities for simplified catering
• Neutral location accessible to community
• Flexible decoration and setup possibilities

Considerations:

• Variable quality and amenities across facilities
• May require more extensive setup and decoration
• Limited technical equipment availability
• Potential scheduling limitations

Unique Venue Ideas

Sports Facilities and Stadiums Create memorable experiences by hosting banquets at significant athletic venues:

• College or professional stadium club spaces
• Indoor sports facilities or training centers
• Country club banquet rooms
• Golf course clubhouses
• Bowling alleys or entertainment venues (for casual celebrations)

Outdoor Settings Weather-permitting locations for spring and summer sports:

• Park pavilions with covered areas
• Outdoor amphitheaters or event spaces
• Poolside venues for swim team banquets
• Team member’s large backyard (for smaller teams)
• Beach or lakeside facilities (for appropriate sports)

Virtual and Hybrid Options Modern alternatives accommodating various circumstances:

• Livestreamed ceremonies allowing remote participation
• Hybrid events combining in-person and virtual attendance
• Fully virtual celebrations using video conferencing platforms
• Pre-recorded award presentations distributed digitally

Theme and Decoration Ideas

Cohesive themes create memorable atmosphere while reinforcing team identity.

Sport-Specific Themes

Championship and Victory Focus Celebrate successful seasons with winner-focused decoration:

• Gold, silver, and bronze color schemes
• Trophy and medal centerpieces
• Championship banner replicas
• Podium-style award presentations
• “Road to Championship” timeline displays

Team Colors and Mascot Integration Reinforce school or team identity:

• Table decorations in team colors
• Centerpieces featuring mascot imagery
• Balloon arrangements in team color schemes
• Custom banners and signage
• Jersey or uniform displays

Season Highlights and Memory Focus Celebrate the journey rather than just outcomes:

• Photo collage centerpieces from season
• “Best Moments” video montage displays
• Timeline of season progression
• Player quote displays
• Game highlight decorations

Table Decoration Ideas

• Mini trophies or sports balls as centerpieces
• Team photo frames at each place setting
• Custom name cards with player numbers
• Sports equipment arrangements (clean helmets, gloves, etc.)
• LED string lights in team colors
• Floating candles in team color water

Entrance and Welcome Areas

• Red carpet entrance for athletes
• Team accomplishment display boards
• Season statistics posters
• Welcome banner signed by coaching staff
• Achievement timeline from season start to banquet

Menu Planning: Food That Fits Your Budget and Audience

Meal selection impacts both budget and guest satisfaction.

Full-Service Meal Options

Plated Dinner Service Traditional formal option for special celebrations:

• Professional presentation and service
• Predictable timing coordinating with program
• Accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice
• Higher cost per person ($20-40+)
• Limited menu variety for guests

Buffet-Style Dining Flexible option balancing quality and cost:

• Variety accommodating diverse preferences
• Guests control portion sizes
• More casual, relaxed atmosphere
• Moderate cost ($15-30 per person)
• Requires adequate serving space and flow

Family-Style Service Creates communal dining experience:

• Shared platters at each table
• Encourages conversation and connection
• Easier accommodation of dietary needs
• Moderate to higher cost ($18-35 per person)
• Requires coordinated serving timing

Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Dessert and Appetizer Receptions Cost-effective evening celebration option:

• Focus on ceremony rather than full meal
• Variety of finger foods and desserts
• More budget for awards and recognition
• Lower cost ($8-15 per person)
• Shorter event duration

Potluck or Covered Dish Community-building meal option:

• Minimal catering costs
• Variety reflecting team diversity
• Families contribute and participate
• Very low cost ($0-5 per person for basics)
• Requires significant coordination

Pizza and Casual Options Informal celebration for youth teams:

• Simple, kid-friendly food
• Easy cleanup and service
• Casual, relaxed atmosphere
• Low cost ($6-12 per person)
• May feel less formal for older athletes

University athletic facilities demonstrate how formal banquet spaces integrate recognition displays celebrating program excellence

Dietary Considerations

Accommodation Strategies

• Collect dietary restrictions and allergies with RSVPs
• Provide vegetarian and vegan options
• Offer gluten-free and allergen-friendly alternatives
• Label buffet items with ingredients and allergen information
• Have simple backup options available
• Coordinate with caterer regarding special needs

Beverage Planning

• Water stations or pitchers throughout venue
• Iced tea and lemonade for casual events
• Soft drinks and juice options
• Coffee and tea service for evening events
• Consider alcohol policies for adult attendees (if applicable)

Award Categories and Recognition Ideas

Comprehensive award programs honor diverse contributions and achievements.

Traditional Athletic Awards

Performance-Based Recognition

• Most Valuable Player (MVP)
• Most Improved Player
• Offensive Player of the Year
• Defensive Player of the Year
• Rookie of the Year
• Team Captain Awards
• All-Conference/All-State Recognition
• Record-Breaking Achievement Awards

Character and Leadership Awards

• Sportsmanship Award
• Team Spirit and Enthusiasm
• Leadership and Dedication
• Coaches’ Award (most coachable)
• Hustle and Heart Award
• Perseverance Award
• Best Teammate Award

Learn more about comprehensive award ideas in youth sports recognition programs.

Creative Recognition Categories

Specialized Achievement Awards

• Best Practice Attendance
• Academic Excellence (Scholar-Athlete)
• Community Service Leadership
• Social Media Ambassador (positive promotion)
• Equipment Manager Excellence
• Team Photographer/Historian
• Spirit Squad Leadership
• Best Game Day Energy

Senior Recognition

Special Senior Tributes

• Senior athlete spotlight presentations
• Future plans announcements
• Senior speeches or reflections
• Photo or video tributes
• Special gifts or commemorative items
• Parent recognition for senior families
• Legacy awards for graduating athletes

Senior Recognition Ideas

• Individual senior athlete video montages
• “Senior Memories” slideshow during meal
• Senior advice to younger athletes
• Senior parent recognition moments
• Senior night integration with banquet recognition
• Framed jerseys or team photos as senior gifts
• Scholarship announcements for college-bound athletes

Coach and Support Staff Recognition

Honoring Coaching Staff Athletes and families should recognize coaching contributions:

• Head coach tribute and gifts
• Assistant coach recognition
• Volunteer coach appreciation
• Team parent coordinator acknowledgment
• Athletic trainer and support staff recognition
• Booster club leadership appreciation

Consider implementing comprehensive coach appreciation programs extending beyond single banquet events.

Program Structure and Ceremony Flow

Strategic program design ensures engaging ceremonies honoring everyone appropriately.

Sample Banquet Program Timeline

Pre-Ceremony (30-45 minutes before start)

• Venue setup and final preparations
• Early guest arrival and registration
• Photo opportunities and social time
• Background music and welcoming atmosphere
• Display viewing (photo boards, highlight videos)

Welcome and Introduction (5-10 minutes)

• Welcome from emcee or athletic director
• Opening remarks from head coach
• Acknowledgment of special guests
• Overview of evening’s program
• Team or school song/chant

Meal Service (45-60 minutes)

• Blessing or invocation if appropriate
• Meal service and dining
• Background highlight video or slideshow
• Informal socializing and conversation
• Table activities or discussions

School lobbies with athletic recognition displays inspire banquet program design celebrating tradition and achievement

Season Recap and Highlights (10-15 minutes)

• Season statistics and achievements
• Highlight video montage
• Memorable moment recaps
• Championship or tournament review
• Record-breaking performances
• Team accomplishment celebration

Award Presentations (30-45 minutes)

• Introduction of award categories
• Individual award presentations
• Brief remarks from award recipients
• Photo opportunities with coaches
• Special recognition categories
• Senior tributes and acknowledgments

Coach Addresses (10-20 minutes)

• Assistant coach remarks
• Head coach season reflection
• Looking ahead to next season
• Thank you to athletes, families, and supporters
• Final motivational message

Closing (5-10 minutes)

• Final acknowledgments and thank yous
• Invitation to view displays and photo opportunities
• Information about next season
• Dismissal and social time

Total program length: 2-3 hours

Keeping Audiences Engaged

Pacing Strategies

• Break long award segments into categories with transitions
• Intersperse video content between live presentations
• Include interactive elements (polls, questions)
• Limit individual speeches to 2-3 minutes
• Use upbeat music during transitions
• Consider youth sports’ shorter attention spans

Engagement Techniques

• Involve athletes in presentations
• Include funny or heartwarming moments
• Share behind-the-scenes stories
• Incorporate team traditions or inside jokes
• Use multimedia presentations
• Create surprises or unexpected moments

Individual Athlete Spotlights

• Brief video tributes for seniors
• Montages highlighting individual achievements
• Interviews with athletes about season experiences
• Parent messages to graduating athletes
• Humorous “superlatives” presentations

Audio-Visual Equipment Needs

Essential Equipment

• Projection screen or large monitor
• Laptop or media player
• Quality audio system
• Microphones (wireless preferred)
• Remote control or presentation clicker
• Backup equipment for technical issues

Professional Considerations

• Test all equipment before guests arrive
• Have technical support person available
• Prepare backup presentations on multiple devices
• Consider professional AV rental for important events
• Ensure adequate electrical outlets and connections
• Adjust lighting for video visibility

Live Streaming and Recording

Digital Participation Options

• Livestream ceremony for remote families
• Record banquet for absent athletes
• Social media clips throughout event
• Professional videography for program archives
• Photo sharing via cloud albums
• Post-event highlight compilation

Interactive Elements and Activities

Beyond formal programming, interactive components enhance guest experiences.

Pre-Ceremony Activities

Photo Opportunities

• Red carpet entrance with backdrop
• Team photo booth with props
• Individual athlete portraits with trophies
• Family photos with coaches
• Group photos by position or class year

Display Stations

• Season scrapbook viewing
• Uniform and equipment displays
• Award showcase tables
• Championship trophy viewing
• Recruiting and college commitment displays

During-Event Engagement

Table Activities

• Team trivia questions
• “Guess the Baby Photo” of athletes or coaches
• Season prediction cards for next year
• Advice cards from seniors to younger athletes
• Memory sharing prompts

Recognition Beyond Awards

• Spotlight on team managers and support staff
• Parent volunteer acknowledgment
• Booster club recognition
• Medical staff and trainers appreciation
• Athletic department staff thanks

Permanent hall of fame displays in school lobbies preserve banquet award recipients for ongoing recognition

Post-Banquet Engagement

Social Media Integration

• Event hashtag for photo sharing
• Live posting during ceremony (designated person)
• Tagged athlete photos
• Award winner announcements
• Thank you messages to sponsors and supporters

Lasting Memories

• Professional photo albums or yearbooks
• Video compilation distribution
• Certificate and award documentation
• Team memorabilia distribution
• Next season kickoff announcements

Learn about creating lasting recognition through digital hall of fame displays preserving banquet moments permanently.

Budget Management and Fundraising

Strategic financial planning ensures quality events without financial strain.

Cost Reduction Strategies

Venue Savings

• Use school facilities when possible
• Schedule during off-peak times for lower rates
• Negotiate package deals with venues
• Share costs with other teams for combined events
• Utilize community spaces with reduced rates

Food Service Savings

• Choose buffet over plated service
• Select less expensive meal times (lunch vs. dinner)
• Limit menu options to control costs
• Use parent volunteers for simple catering
• Partner with local restaurants for sponsorship

Award and Recognition Savings

• Order awards in bulk for better pricing
• Use high-quality certificates instead of all trophies
• Create custom awards through school shop classes
• Implement digital recognition reducing physical award needs
• Reuse previous year’s decorations and materials

Cost-Sharing Models

• Per-family contribution (with financial aid options)
• Graduated pricing by number of attending family members
• Combined sport banquets sharing facility and AV costs
• Alumni association co-sponsorship
• School athletic department budget allocation

Budget Template

Sample Budget (100 attendees)

• Venue rental: $300-800
• Catering ($20/person): $2,000
• Awards and certificates: $300-600
• Decorations: $150-300
• Programs and printing: $100-200
• Audio-visual rentals: $200-400
• Photography: $200-400
• Miscellaneous supplies: $100-200

Total: $3,350-$4,900 ($33.50-$49 per person)

Budget variables depend on:

• Venue selection
• Meal complexity
• Award quantity and quality
• Technology needs
• Professional service usage
• Decoration elaborateness

Sport-Specific Banquet Ideas

Different sports lend themselves to unique celebration elements.

Football Banquets

Distinctive Elements

• Highlight reel from season’s biggest games
• Position-group recognition and awards
• Offensive/defensive line appreciation
• Video tribute to graduating seniors
• Championship or playoff achievement focus
• College signing day announcements

Learn more about football team recognition programs for additional planning guidance.

Basketball Banquets

Special Features

• Season statistics showcase
• Three-point contest or skills challenge
• Player spotlight videos
• Buzzer-beater and highlight moments
• Team chemistry and bonding recognition
• Tournament run recaps

Team Sport Variations

Soccer, Volleyball, and Field Sports

• Position-specific achievement recognition
• Goal/scoring highlight compilations
• Team formation strategy discussions
• Tournament journey recaps
• Most improved player by position
• Goalkeeper/defensive specialist awards

Swimming, Track, and Individual Sports

• Personal record progression charts
• Relay team recognition
• Record-breaking performances
• Individual time improvement awards
• State/regional qualifier recognition
• Multi-event participant awards

Athletic facilities showcase trophy cases and recognition murals creating inspiring banquet venues

Multi-Sport Athlete Recognition

Cross-Sport Celebrations

• Combined banquets for fall, winter, or spring sports
• Multi-sport athlete special recognition
• Athletic department-wide awards
• All-season athlete achievements
• Comprehensive athletic career tributes for seniors

Creating Lasting Recognition Beyond Banquets

While banquet events create memorable moments, permanent recognition extends celebration impact throughout subsequent years.

Traditional Recognition Methods

Physical Displays

• Trophy case additions
• Championship banners
• Individual athlete plaques
• Team photo displays
• Record boards

Challenges with Traditional Recognition

• Limited physical space
• Difficult updates and additions
• Costly expansions
• Static presentation
• Accessibility only on campus

Digital Recognition Solutions

Modern athletic programs increasingly implement digital recognition platforms providing unlimited capacity for honoring banquet award recipients permanently:

Advantages of Digital Recognition

• Unlimited athlete and award capacity
• Easy updates without physical modifications
• Interactive exploration of achievements
• Multimedia presentations with photos and videos
• Mobile accessibility for remote viewing
• Professional presentations enhancing prestige
• Searchable databases finding specific athletes
• Cost-effective long-term solution

Solutions like Rocket Alumni Solutions transform banquet recognition from single-night celebrations into permanent digital showcases accessible to current athletes, alumni, families, and broader communities. These platforms preserve award recipient information, season achievements, and team memories in engaging formats extending recognition impact well beyond banquet events.

Post-Banquet Follow-Up

Extending engagement beyond the event maximizes celebration impact.

Immediate Follow-Up

Within 1 Week

• Share professional photos through team channels
• Post event highlights on social media
• Send thank you messages to volunteers and sponsors
• Distribute award certificates not given during ceremony
• Share video recordings with families
• Update school athletic website with banquet results

Documentation and Archives

Permanent Records

• Create digital photo albums
• Archive video presentations
• Document award recipients in athletic records
• Update team history materials
• Preserve programs and materials
• Add achievements to athlete profiles

Community Recognition

Public Acknowledgment

• Submit press releases to local media
• Feature award winners in school communications
• Recognize achievements in community newsletters
• Update digital recognition displays with banquet recipients
• Share accomplishments through booster club channels

Building Momentum for Next Season

Future Planning

• Survey attendees about event satisfaction
• Gather suggestions for improvements
• Begin preliminary planning for next year
• Maintain enthusiasm during off-season
• Connect banquet recognition to ongoing program culture

Special Considerations and Adaptations

Different circumstances require flexible banquet approaches.

Youth Sports Adaptations

Age-Appropriate Modifications

• Shorter program duration (60-90 minutes)
• More interactive elements and activities
• Kid-friendly food and informal setting
• Emphasis on participation over competition
• Simple awards like medals or ribbons
• Parent involvement in program
• Fun superlatives and recognition

Virtual and Hybrid Banquet Options

Remote Celebration Strategies

• Video conference platform ceremonies
• Mailed award packages opened during livestream
• Pre-recorded video presentations
• Virtual photo booth experiences
• Online memory sharing platforms
• Digital certificate distribution
• Recording available for on-demand viewing

Hybrid Event Management

• In-person ceremony with livestream access
• Virtual attendees featured in program
• Interactive elements engaging remote participants
• Chat functionality for virtual congratulations
• Post-event video compilation for all attendees

Digital team history displays preserve banquet moments and season achievements in accessible, engaging formats

Inclusive Planning

Ensuring Accessibility

• Wheelchair-accessible venues
• Dietary accommodation for all restrictions
• Closed captioning for videos and presentations
• ASL interpretation if needed
• Affordable pricing with financial assistance options
• Transportation assistance coordination
• Multiple attendance format options

Cultural Sensitivity

• Respect diverse family structures in recognition
• Accommodate various religious dietary restrictions
• Consider diverse scheduling needs (religious observances)
• Inclusive language in programs and speeches
• Celebration of diverse team composition
• Recognition of different family support models

Common Banquet Planning Challenges and Solutions

Even experienced planners encounter predictable obstacles.

Challenge: Low RSVP Response Rates

Problem: Difficulty planning with uncertain attendance numbers

Solutions:

• Set firm RSVP deadlines with follow-up reminders
• Use online RSVP systems tracking responses automatically
• Follow up personally with non-responders
• Require RSVPs for attendance (not optional)
• Build small buffer into catering counts
• Communicate importance of accurate headcount

Challenge: Budget Constraints

Problem: Limited funds for desired event quality

Solutions:

• Prioritize spending on most impactful elements
• Seek sponsorships from local businesses
• Use parent volunteers reducing service costs
• Choose less expensive venue or meal options
• Implement fundraising earlier in season
• Consider cost-sharing with families (with assistance available)
• Focus budget on recognition rather than elaborate meals

Challenge: Balancing Recognition for All Athletes

Problem: Ensuring every athlete feels valued, not just star performers

Solutions:

• Create diverse award categories
• Include most improved and effort-based awards
• Recognize specific contributions beyond statistics
• Ensure every athlete receives some acknowledgment
• Balance individual and team recognition
• Highlight different athletes in various program segments
• Emphasize collective team achievement

Challenge: Keeping Program Moving and Engaging

Problem: Long award ceremonies losing audience attention

Solutions:

• Limit total program length to 2-3 hours
• Use multimedia breaks between award segments
• Keep individual speeches brief (set time limits)
• Group similar awards for efficiency
• Incorporate humor and entertainment elements
• Vary presentation styles throughout program
• End on high note with inspiring message

Measuring Success and Continuous Improvement

Effective programs incorporate feedback ensuring future events improve.

Gathering Feedback

Athlete Input

• Post-event surveys about ceremony experience
• Questions about meaningful recognition elements
• Suggestions for improvement
• Rating of food, venue, and program
• Identification of favorite moments

Family Perspectives

• Parent surveys about event quality
• Communication effectiveness assessment
• Value perception relative to cost
• Venue and logistics feedback
• Recognition satisfaction

Coach and Organizer Debriefs

• Planning process evaluation
• Budget effectiveness analysis
• Vendor performance review
• Timeline adequacy assessment
• Improvement opportunity identification

School entrance displays welcome families to banquet venues while showcasing program pride and recognition traditions

Success Indicators

Quantitative Metrics

• Attendance percentage of invited guests
• Budget adherence and cost per attendee
• RSVP response rate and timeline
• Number of awards and recognitions given
• Social media engagement levels

Qualitative Measures

• Overall event atmosphere and energy
• Athlete satisfaction and emotional impact
• Family engagement and appreciation
• Sponsor and volunteer satisfaction
• Lasting memory creation

Documentation for Future Planning

Creating Planning Archives

• Comprehensive event timeline documentation
• Budget breakdown with actual costs
• Vendor contact information and performance notes
• Successful program elements to repeat
• Challenges encountered and solutions implemented
• Attendee feedback summaries
• Photo and video archives

Conclusion: Creating Banquets Athletes Remember

Sports banquets represent pivotal moments closing athletic seasons—opportunities to honor dedication, celebrate achievement, and reinforce the values defining your program. When schools invest thoughtfully in comprehensive banquet planning addressing venue selection, meaningful recognition, engaging programs, and lasting celebration, they create signature events athletes remember long after competitive careers end.

The most effective sports banquets balance formal recognition with authentic celebration, honor diverse contributions beyond star performers, and leverage modern technology ensuring awards and achievements receive ongoing visibility extending well beyond single ceremony events. From youth recreational teams to high school championship programs, these principles create celebrations where every participant feels genuinely valued.

By implementing creative banquet ideas, establishing comprehensive award categories, and investing in permanent recognition systems preserving celebration moments, athletic programs transform end-of-season formalities into powerful traditions building culture, strengthening connections, and motivating future excellence.

Your athletes’ dedication deserves celebration reflecting the significance of their commitment. With strategic planning, appropriate resource allocation, and modern recognition technology, you can create sports banquets that honor achievement comprehensively while building the celebratory traditions defining exceptional athletic programs for generations.

Ready to enhance your sports banquet and create lasting recognition for your athletes? Explore how digital recognition displays provide unlimited capacity to showcase banquet award recipients permanently while creating engaging experiences accessible to your entire athletic community year-round.