Event Title
Varsity News Network
Location
Exhibition Hall, DeVos Center
Description
INTRODUCTION: Research shows that about 94% of athletes will not play competitive sports after high school, which suggests that celebrating and remembering athletic experience is critical. However, print media coverage of high school sports is diminishing, particularly for athletes who do not play basketball or football. The purpose of this project was to create a business plan for Varsity News Network, LLC, a network of high school sports news websites, fueled by high school students and faculty to provide media coverage for every sport. PROCEDURES: Secondary market research was conducted to determine whether the high school sports market was indeed ready for such an endeavor, the result of which was a full feasibility analysis. This was followed by the development of an execution strategy, identifying and engaging the appropriate staff to assist in this endeavor, raising $20,000 in startup capital, and preparing a 30-page business plan for Varsity News Network, LLC. OUTCOME: The outcome of this project was a complete business plan for a startup web and sports company, which resulted in the launch of the business that now serves athletes at 8 high schools and employs 4 people, including the founder. IMPACT: Through a real-world application of communication theory, research, and strategies, this project resulted in a successful startup business that generated $18,000 in revenue in its first 3 months.
Varsity News Network
Exhibition Hall, DeVos Center
INTRODUCTION: Research shows that about 94% of athletes will not play competitive sports after high school, which suggests that celebrating and remembering athletic experience is critical. However, print media coverage of high school sports is diminishing, particularly for athletes who do not play basketball or football. The purpose of this project was to create a business plan for Varsity News Network, LLC, a network of high school sports news websites, fueled by high school students and faculty to provide media coverage for every sport. PROCEDURES: Secondary market research was conducted to determine whether the high school sports market was indeed ready for such an endeavor, the result of which was a full feasibility analysis. This was followed by the development of an execution strategy, identifying and engaging the appropriate staff to assist in this endeavor, raising $20,000 in startup capital, and preparing a 30-page business plan for Varsity News Network, LLC. OUTCOME: The outcome of this project was a complete business plan for a startup web and sports company, which resulted in the launch of the business that now serves athletes at 8 high schools and employs 4 people, including the founder. IMPACT: Through a real-world application of communication theory, research, and strategies, this project resulted in a successful startup business that generated $18,000 in revenue in its first 3 months.