THE MANAGING director of Coventry Bears has spoken of his pride after the rugby league club were announced as winners of the inaugural Project of the Year award for League One in their debut season as a semi-professional club.
The Project of the Year award recognises clubs who have shown an outstanding commitment to meeting the objectives of raising the visibility and profile of the competition and increasing attendance at one or more games through a special project.
A ‘Big Games Bigger’ project was a marketing campaign ran by the Bears through their community programme to promote three unique games throughout the season.
Free tickets were handed to schoolchildren after engaging with the club in schools while parents were offered discounted tickets.
The club also created a number of unique player trading cards while car stickers, key rings and fridge magnets were given to those who attended to grow their brand.
This project has also allowed the Bears to network with new schools and organisations such as Godiva Academy, a performing arts academy who now run a 50 strong Bears dance troupe on home games which further enhances the game day experience.
“It is fantastic to be recognised on this our first professional season and on the 120th Anniversary of Rugby League,” said Alan Robinson.
“The project allowed us to sustain and grow our fan base throughout the season while delivering to and engaging new children and families in the sport which is key for us.
“Rugby League has a lot to offer and we hope this will open more doors for us in the city. We now have a full coaching curriculum programme available and are seeking new primary and secondary schools to take part for new year.”
Any schools interested in having Rugby League on their curriculum for next year should email Bears community manager Conor Kelly on [email protected]
