2005 Panel Discussion
Panel Discussion
The agenda consisted of marketing, advertising, sponsorship, organization, and tournament set-up to name a few, with many
questions from the attending audience. Panelists: Ed Prentiss, Commissioner of the NDL, Dave Johnson, Polaris Marketing Manager,
and Niki LaGrano, Operations Director for the NDL, kicked off the weekend with an interesting and interactive dodgeball
forum. Each gave their candid perspective and opinions on all things dodgeball and took questions from a receptive audience.
Johnson offered keen insights on sponsorship and marketing. Among his suggestions was to always keep
in mind what's in it for the potential sponsor. All too many groups don't take into consideration the sponsor's
return for their investment. Johnson also discussed the use of viral and guerilla marketing, especially effective
tools in today's crowded media marketplace.
Prentiss focused on many of the issues facing league and tournament planners.
He reminded the audience that while dodgeball has moved beyond a trend, the next few years
will be pivotal to the sport's survival. He observed that dodgeballers are too fragmented and that
in the past year many event planners have failed without a strong support system. He explained that
there was strength in numbers and laid out the beginnings of the NDL affiliate program to the audience.
LaGrano fielded questions from the crowd about specifics of event planning. She commented
how on several occasions she assisted or consulted event planners who ignored her suggestions. The events ended
up more costly or were relatively unsuccessful. She also spoke about the value of joining forces with non-profits and
pursuing fundraising opportunities.
Audience members listening avidly.
Tournament and Panel Registration
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