Competitions are exciting, but let’s face it, they’re also expensive. Travel, lodging, entry fees, and uniforms can add up quickly. Planning your competition season with a clear budget in mind can help reduce stress and keep your program sustainable.
Here’s how to approach it:
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Start with last year’s data: Look at how much you spent and where the biggest costs came from.
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Prioritize key events: Focus on competitions that matter most for development, exposure, or progression. Not every meet is essential.
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Plan early: The earlier you decide, the better you can coordinate carpools, group rates, and fundraisers.
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Balance timing: Avoid back-to-back weekends that drain both energy and funds.
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Build in uniform planning: If you know your biggest meets are in June or July, start ordering uniforms now to guarantee that everything will arrive on time.
Being strategic with your calendar keeps your team focused, your families prepared, and your program financially healthy.