"One of the hot topics at the NWCA Convention since 2009 has been the use of social media to market the individual program. We want to incorporate that momentum by helping programs find an easy way to grow the number of spectators and fans, while maintaining a visible public image that will help to positively brand the wrestling team with the institution that they represent," said Mike Moyer, NWCA Executive Director.
The NWCA has been working diligently to develop strategies that enhance the sustainability of wrestling programs across the United States. To help in this pursuit, the NWCA has created an innovative marketing program that will be unveiled at the 2012 NWCA Convention. In coordination with the introduction of a new Marketing Manual designed specifically for college programs, the convention will also feature a themed "Best of Brand" awards ceremony to honor the elite marketing programs in college wrestling.
Each of the winning teams will be recognized in front of their peers at the 2012 NWCA Convention in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, next August. A letter of achievement will also be sent to their Athletic Directors and academic institutions.
The new "Best of Brand" awards will feature seven different individual categories in the inaugural competition (see specific information below).
When asked about the new awards program, Dr. Cooper explained that, "This is a unique opportunity for college wrestling programs to differentiate themselves from other sports. For college wrestling to be sustainable in future years, coaches must embrace the opportunity to build their programs with key stakeholders. My hope is that all programs will get on board, because this has the opportunity to grow the sport moving forward."
Daily Doses of Excellence Awards
v Gotta Be Grassroots: For the program who develops the strongest base via Facebook and Twitter. In addition to followers, this will reward the team that encourages the most interaction among site consumers.
v Intent to Innovate: For programs who have the most creative videos in three specific areas.
a. The Highlight Reel (for top highlight video)
b. Pure Entertainment (for videos created to entertain and engage fans)
c. Solid Service (for videos best demonstrating community service outreach)
v The Magical Mission: For the programs who best brand their mission via social network sites. The NWCA will award programs with well-rounded values that embrace the university mission.
Annual Achievement Awards
v Top Newcomer: For programs who storm onto the social network site scene and build their program's brand the right way. In essence, this award will be evaluated based on a program's ability to establish a well-rounded approach with the effective combination of content, visual appeal, and interactivity on social network sites.
v The Gold Standard: For the program who best embraces innovative marketing strategies in college wrestling. The criteria for this award will be similar to the "Top Newcomer" category. However, this category is for established programs who are further along with their marketing efforts.
For coaches who are interested in participating, please have a member of your staff contact Dr. Cooper (cgcooper@email.unc.edu) with your social network site information so we can include you on the NWCA program watch list. Any questions about the competition can also be directed to Dr. Cooper.
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