Steps to Start Playing Floorball in Your Community
Getting started with floorball can be exciting, and with a little organization, you’ll be hitting the court in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you launch your group and start building momentum:
1. Find a Facility
Finding a place to play is often the biggest hurdle, but it’s entirely achievable with a bit of persistence. Consider these options:
- Local YMCA or Community Centers: Many have gym floors with open time slots.
- Schools: Contact school administrators to see if they rent their gym space after hours.
- Churches: Some have multipurpose facilities that can host sports events.
- Athletic Facilities: Look into local indoor sports complexes or recreation centers.
Before booking, make sure you:
- Understand the cost of renting the facility.
- Review the rules for using the space (e.g., liability, cleanliness).
- Check if insurance is required.
- Clarify time slots and any other obligations.
If you’re struggling to find a location, email us at info@usafloorball.org. We’ve helped others across the nation overcome this challenge and can provide advice or connect you with nearby groups.
2. Sticks and Equipment
Getting your group equipped is simpler than you might think:
- Sticks: You’ll need enough sticks for players on the floor. For beginners, you can rotate sticks as substitutes come on.
- Goals: Start with makeshift goals (cones, chairs, or taped-off areas work) until your group grows and you can invest in proper floorball goals.
- Where to Buy: Check out the “Buy Equipment” tab on our website or do a quick online search to find affordable sticks and gear.
3. Promote Your Event
Consistency is key to building a community! Establish a regular schedule for your games and get the word out:
- Social Media: Create posts to announce your event, and don’t forget to tag #usaFloorball to expand your reach.
- USA Floorball Mapping Tool: Share your event with us, and we’ll add it to our mapping tool and promote it through our social channels.
- Event Updates: Use a system (email, group chats, or social platforms) to notify attendees about:
- Rules and game format.
- Attendance confirmations.
- Game status and weather (if outdoors).
- Costs and directions.
4. Play and Have Fun!
The most important step is to play and enjoy the game.
- Share photos and updates from your sessions on social media, tagging #usaFloorball so we can celebrate your progress.
- Have fun, stay active, and keep the spirit of floorball alive.