Suggestions For Developing Off Seasons Without The 'Like IRI' Mindset Trap

[JaneYoung]

Let me explain ...

Recently, I have had the privilege of serving on several off season committees in the state of Texas that have been trying to re-establish an off season event. (Apparently, in the past there was an off season competition in the Houston area though I don't know who ran it or any of the logistics.)

I've gained a lot of insight into the planning of and for an off season, including waging a battle against the IRI mindset: 'like IRI', even if folks have never attended IRI in person to see how it has developed and grown over the years.

Billfred and I were talking about some of this at dinner on Saturday after IRI and I mentioned that I'm thinking about writing a white paper concerning the insight I've gained and what I've learned. The purpose of the white paper would be to help others who are interested in starting an off season but are trying to do too much too soon too fast. What we are learning here in our region is that the teams have to get interested and committed to participating as competitors. That is key to the success of an off season along with its organizational side of things.

If anyone has any suggestions, thoughts, or ideas in how to help generate interest with the teams along with maintaining the KISS attitude, initially - I'm all ears.

Thanks in advance for your insight and ideas.
Jane