Keeping Members Connected
Burnside Park Tennis Club
There was plenty happening at the club. The challenge was making sure members heard about it.
THE CHALLENGE
When I started working with Burnside Park Tennis Club in 2023, I saw an opportunity to create a more consistent, coordinated approach to member communications. Like many volunteer-run clubs, there was plenty happening on and off the court, but communication was spread across different channels, relied on committee members finding the time to post, and wasn't always reaching the right people at the right time.
A COORDINATED APPROACH
Over the past few years I've worked alongside the committee to bring it all together. Today, communication with members runs through a combination of regular social media updates, monthly newsletters, website management, email communications, event promotion, and member notices. The goal has never been to simply send more, it's to make sure members know what's happening, feel connected, and can easily find the information they need.
NEWSLETTERS, SOCIAL AND WEBSITE
Each month I prepare and distribute the club newsletter - competitions, coaching programmes, junior and senior tennis, facility projects, volunteer opportunities, committee news, and upcoming events. Alongside that I manage the club's social media, promoting programmes, events, sponsors, and achievements, and keep the website up to date as a central source of information for members and visitors.
"That's such a good newsletter. You do a great job with these."
- Stephanie W, Club Member
BEHIND THE SCENES
Communication also matters behind the scenes - court closures, programme changes, keycard updates, health and safety information, AGM notices, and special events. Clear, timely communication helps the club run smoothly and takes pressure off volunteers. It's also helped tell the club's story - celebrating membership growth, club championships, representative success, sponsorships, facility improvements, and the club's centenary.
THE REAL DIFFERENCE
Good communication doesn't happen by accident -it takes time, consistency, and an understanding of what members want to know. By taking on these tasks, I've freed up volunteer time while keeping the club engaging effectively with members, sponsors, and the wider community.
THE OUTCOME - AT A GLANCE
What that support has delivered for the club
