Ideas that Work" is a periodic feature developed for The NCAA News by the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators. Individuals interested in contributing information may telephone Trip Durham of Elon University at 336/278-6708.

Birthday at the Park

Florida Atlantic University
Contact: April Merola, coordinator of sports marketing

What: "Birthday at the Park" is a fun and creative way to celebrate a child's birthday "baseball style." The price of a party is $100 for 10 children, with each additional child costing $10. The package includes the following:

A birthday cake.

A pizza party.

Soda.

The opportunity for the birthday boy/girl to throw out the first pitch.

An autographed baseball for the birthday boy/girl.

A special T-shirt for the birthday boy/girl.

* Public-address recognition and playing of "Happy Birthday."

Ten general-admission tickets.

Mascot appearance.

Autographed posters for the entire party.

How: The marketing department sought to bring a more family-oriented atmosphere to the FAU baseball park. By distributing the information about this promotion through e-mail and through fliers to local Little Leagues, the school's Junior Owls Kids Club, the season-ticket holder database and distributing information at Florida Atlantic home games, the promotion succeeded. Families welcomed the new idea, and those who tried it were happy with the results.

Results: Seven parties were held throughout the season without incurring any expense. Sponsors such as Domino's and Coca-Cola provided pizza and sodas. It was a great way for children to celebrate their special day in a unique way and to bring back the family-oriented atmosphere that accompanies America's favorite pastime.

Pregame Carnival

University of Wyoming
Contact: Amy Potter, director of
marketing and promotions

What sport: Women's basketball.

How: Wyoming ties this event with the NCAA's "Take a Kid to the Game." Organizers arrange for games and prizes for participants. Several inflatable interactive games are provided, along with slides and football tosses. The event doubled attendance for the specified game. Wyoming sent fliers to nearby schools and invited Girl and Boy Scout troops, Boys and Girls Clubs, and elementary school teams. Organizers also conducted a sign contest, with the creators of the best sign awarded a pizza and root-beer float party with the team.

Student Government vs. Administration All-Star Game

Ferris State University
Contact: Brian Kegler

Who: Faculty/staff and student body.

What: Student leaders and administrative officials on campus will wear the school's old uniforms.

When: Half time of a men's basketball game.

How: Hold a basketball game at half time between student leaders and administration on campus. By heavily promoting the event on campus, students become excited to see school officials in a much more relaxed and entertaining environment. It helps improve relations among students and administration and provides a memorable experience for attending fans.