The present recession is the deepest we have known for generations.  Some are even calling it the "D" word as in Depression.  There is little doubt these are historic times.

This past week I was in the Spring Training camp for the Pittsburgh Pirates.  In the past many viewed professional sports as immune from recession.  Not so anymore.  Most major league teams have taken steps to cut back their spending.  There still remains a lengthy list of free agents, who in normal times would all have a job.  With unemployment now reaching above 8%, it is likely we won't see families crowding into the ball parks at record numbers.

At a more localized level, my son's soccer team has already had its casualties--kids who could not come back if they had to pay to have their son on the team.  We are going to see more of that.  Parents will have to make choices.  Clubs and leagues likewise need to realize that their funding strategies must change.  It can't be simply raising the cost of registration.  That cost goes directly back to the parents.  Similarly, fundraising can't go back to the candy bar approach--that approach means selling back often to the same parents and families who are likely struggling as well.

So what is the approach?  First, it means that the leagues themselve must be efficient.  Cost cutting and controlling expenses must be the norm.  Online registration and management are critical.  Text messaging for tournaments, games and practices is crucial.  See www.htgsports.net.  Parents aren't going to put up with driving to a game only to get there to find out it was cancelled.  Under the Obama administration, we are likely to gas tax hikes.  No one wants to spend money on gas when they don't have to.  Even as I write this post, I find myself waiting to discover whether we have a game on a rainy, overcast day.

Second, clubs and leagues must look for corporate sponsors.  Look to those companies who can carry their burden.  Clearly, in any downturn, there are those companies who perform well.  But as you look for those corporate sponsors, carefully consider what benefit you'll offer those sponsors.

Third, look for funding opportunities outside the norm. Right now, for instance, corporate inventories have swelled.  As spending has tightened, inventories have climbed.  Companies may be willing to donate inventories.  Those inventories may be sold to produce cash for the club or league.  Other opportunites abound in the non cash arena--cars, boats, RVs, etc.   Look at www.idonate.com.

Fourth, develop a funding committee that can explore creative ways to raise funding.  Think about the burden that will be lifted from families if the cost of tournaments were covered or the cost even of coaching fees.  It may well be the competitive advantage that a club or league is looking for.

It is not business as usual.  It is time to deal with the recession for our clubs and leagues as well.

--William High is a freelance writer.