In the world of sports, every event holds a unique identity, a spirit that resonates with participants and spectators alike. I was recently approached to do some work for a volleyball tournament, not as a player or coach, but as a designer tasked with reimagining the visual and digital experience of an annual event. Join me on this journey as I share the story of how design and digital innovation came together to elevate the volleyball tournament experience.

Background Story:

It all started with a friend, a passionate volleyball coach. Over the years, I had the opportunity to collaborate with him on various graphic design projects, creating merchandise for the coaching staff the players, and the fans. Even designed a logo for the school that is prominently displayed on the gym floor. Little did I know that our creative partnership would soon extend to something much bigger – the annual volleyball tournament he organized.

 

The request

1. Create a new logo for the event. 
2. A website that has information and can register for next the 2025 event.

 

My proposal

1. Update the existing logo. It's not terrible and the event has been around for a decade so changing completely may do more harm than good. We want people to still recognize the event.
2. Create an event recap landing page and launch it a month or two after the 2024 event. Display the updated logo and let them know that the tournament is getting better for 2025
3. Create a full website and launch that a couple of months before the 2025 tournament
4. Go after sponsors. Have sections on the full website to display current sponsors and an easy place for potential sponsors to start the process of becoming a sponsor. Also creating a sponsor deck with the new branding.
5. We also talked about some marking and PR tactics to get more attention to the event, but we might save that for the 2026 tournament. 

 

Redesigning the Logo and Basic Branding Package:

Here is the new current logo. Again, this logo has potential and I am just going to clean it up and make a few changes to it and build a brand around it. Doing a simple branding following my branding must-have.

Branding

1. Logo
2. Color palette
3. Typography
4. Visual Elements
5. Brand Guides
6. Stationary
7. Event Merchandise or Memorabilia

I am adding assets that are not included in my branding must-haves. but if you read my article, I mentioned that branding is everything that conveys the essence of the company. In sports Event Merch is huge, so this is a great asset to include for a brand like this.

 

Creating a Recap Landing Page:

The goal of this recap landing page is to build anticipation for the upcoming tournament while the full website is still in development. This landing page served as a virtual showcase, offering visitors a glimpse into the excitement and energy of the tournament through highlights, winners, match results, player spotlights, and testimonials from the coaches. 

What we will include in the landing page

Landing Page Deliverables:

1. Event Overview: Provide a summary of the tournament, including its name, date, location, and participating teams or players.
2. Highlight Reel: Showcase video highlights or a photo slideshow capturing memorable moments, thrilling plays, and exciting matches from the tournament.
3. Winners and Awards: Highlight the tournament champions and any individual awards or recognitions, such as MVP, Best Setter, or Best Attacker.
4. Match Results: Display a summary of match results, including scores, winners, and notable performances from key matches or rounds.
5. Standings Table: Present a final standings table showing the rankings of all participating teams or players based on their performance throughout the tournament.
6. Player Spotlights: Feature profiles or interviews with standout players, coaches, or teams, sharing their experiences, insights, and reflections on the tournament.
7. Fan Engagement: Encourage fan engagement by including polls, surveys, or interactive elements where visitors can vote for their favorite moments, plays, or players.
8. Feedback and Testimonials: Include testimonials or feedback from participants, spectators, and sponsors, sharing their thoughts and impressions of the tournament.
9. Call to Action: Prompt visitors to take action, whether it's signing up for future events, joining a mailing list, or following the tournament's social media accounts for updates.
10. Event Recap Video: Video of highlights and testimonials from the last event.

 

Building the Full Website:

After the landing page is built, we will focus on the full website for the 2025 event. The goal is to have this function as a hub for all things related to the tournament – from event information and registration portals to match schedules, team rosters, results, and venue details.

What we will include in the full website:

1. Event Information: Provide detailed information about the tournament, including dates, locations, schedules, divisions, and registration deadlines.
2. Registration Portal: Set up an online registration system where teams or individuals can sign up for the tournament, submit payment, and provide required information.
3. Match Schedule: Display a comprehensive schedule of matches, including dates, times, court assignments, and match-ups, which can be easily accessed and updated.
4. Team Rosters: Allow teams to submit their rosters, including player names, jersey numbers, and positions, which can be displayed on the website for reference. Possibly in-depth player profiles.
5. Results and Standings: Post-real-time match results, scores, and standings, keeping participants and spectators informed about the tournament's progress.
6. Venue Information: Include details about the tournament venue, such as address, directions, parking information, and facilities available onsite.
7. Rules and Regulations: Publish the tournament rules and regulations, including game format, scoring system, substitution rules, and code of conduct.
8. Photo and Video Gallery: Showcase photos and videos from previous tournaments, matches, and highlights to engage visitors and promote the event.
9. Sponsorship Recognition: Recognize sponsors and partners of the tournament on the website, with logos, links, and acknowledgments for their support.
10. Client inquiry page: a page where clients can gain more information about becoming a sponsor and fill out a form to start the process.
11. FAQ Section: Address common questions and concerns from participants and spectators, providing helpful information about the tournament logistics and rules.
12. Contact Information: Offer contact details for tournament organizers or administrators, allowing visitors to reach out with inquiries, feedback, or support requests.
13. List of Upcoming Events: Offer a section showcasing other upcoming volleyball events, such as national championships, regional tournaments, community leagues, and youth camps.

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The website will match the previous landing page and the visual identity created in the rebranding process. I am currently working on this website and its needs but also thinking of the needs of other sports teams and creating a sports template. I am referencing a variety of different types of sports websites to create this template so hopefully it is a good sports website template. 

I will update this post as I move along the journey. Whether you're organizing a tournament, hosting a conference, or planning a special occasion, this template can help you get your site launched fast! Stay tuned for updates!

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