Created and ran a sanctioned tournament that funded a club
Created and directed Three Ring Rally, a USA Ultimate sanctioned tournament that funded a local club and drew 250+ attendees.
Event: Three Ring Rally, a USA Ultimate sanctioned tournament · Host: Kentucky Flying Circus · Role: Tournament Director, 2014–2016 · Location: Louisville, KY
The Kentucky Flying Circus, a competitive ultimate frisbee club, wanted a home tournament that would raise money and build community around the sport. I created Three Ring Rally and ran it as Tournament Director, from the concept and branding to the marketing, operations and gameday.
Making the event worth the trip
Teams have plenty of tournaments to choose from, so this one needed a reason to travel. I leaned into the circus theme: a partnership with Turners Circus for entertainment, prize money for the winners and a tournament party that gave teams a weekend, not just a schedule.
Marketing and operations
I built the event website and ran the digital campaign across social media, backed by direct outreach to regional teams. I also wrote the operations plan and communications for teams, volunteers and spectators so the weekend ran smoothly.
Results
- 12 teams committed to the tournament.
- 250+ attendees, with local spectator interest growing on its own.
- High marks on USA Ultimate’s attendee satisfaction survey.
- Funding for the club that exceeded leadership’s expectations.
What this shows
A grassroots event lives or dies on giving people a reason to show up. A clear theme, a simple website and steady, direct outreach turned a club fundraiser into a tournament teams wanted to attend.
