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Sport & Recreation Trends: What To Expect In 2022

Disruptions and setbacks are likely to continue, but 2022 is still being billed as the return of normal. Everyone is clinging to this hope, and if it comes to fruition, Sport & Recreation organizations should get ready to reap the benefits. Even if it doesn’t all go to plan, there will be some exciting developments to look forward to over the next 12 months. Here are some key Sport & Recreation trends to look out for in 2022.  

Virtual activities

  Many Sport & Recreation courses and programs went virtual during 2020. Although 2021 saw a return to in-person activities, capacity limits and participant uncertainty meant that most programs remained remote. A hybrid approach is likely to be popular in 2022, at least for the first half of the year. It is expected that some facilities will incorporate more sophisticated tech to enhance virtual experiences. One option is

Virtual Reality

technology. Instead of passively following sessions on a computer, TV, or phone screen, participants will be able to fully immerse themselves in a group activity from anywhere. It is the ultimate social distancing tool.  

Integrated COVID-19 protocols

  COVID-19 policies will continue to impact many aspects of Sport & Recreation management. Organizations can’t afford to be caught out by ever-changing government guidelines, so most facilities are proactively implementing long-term measures. Technology will play a key role in simplifying this process both for members and facility managers. Univerus Sport & Recreation software has an online registration feature where participants can submit medical certifications as required. Administrators can monitor each member’s status through a secure database, sending direct notifications to them if any information is missing.  

Flexible memberships

  With access to most facilities being heavily restricted over the last two years, it is not surprising that many users

cancelled their memberships

and course registrations. Attracting participants back to these programs will be difficult until there is more confidence regarding the safety of certain activities. Uncertainty is particularly prevalent in relation to gyms. Tactile equipment and close proximity have acted as a deterrent for even the most devoted gym-goers. An option that more and more facilities are leaning toward is flexible memberships. By offering flexible terms, venues can retain members without them having to make a major financial commitment. Monthly renewals and pay-as-you-go agreements are replacing annual contracts as members take cautious steps back toward indoor exercise.  

Return of community events

  Communities are desperate to return to normal, and 2022 could be the year where large gatherings make a complete comeback. Event capacity limits continue to be lifted around the world as more people become vaccinated against COVID-19. While this is good news for event organizers, extra effort will be required to ensure that safety protocols are met. Fortunately, membership management technology is able to assist.

Univerus Sport & Recreation

software helps organizations manage participant information through a secure central database. This allows administrators to update individual records once documents (such as proof of vaccination) have been verified. The Univerus member management system also helps with

event registration, scheduling and ticketing

. Event organizers can manage ticket sales in line with venue capacity from a central dashboard that also features comprehensive reporting tools.  

Esports

Esports have exploded in popularity

over the last couple of years. Despite the obvious issues this presents for Sport & Recreation organizations, some facilities will be able to capitalize on this trend in 2022. Competitive Esports events can involve hundreds of participants, and large indoor sports facilities have become an attractive option for organizers looking for suitable venues. Esports could represent a valuable source of income, particularly in summer when many sports programs head back outdoors.  

Functional tech

  Facility managers will continue to embrace technology as a way to improve efficiency while creating a better experience for their members. Univerus Sport and Recreation software provides organizations with a host of time-saving, user-friendly tools: · Facility Management · Employee Scheduling · Customer & Member Management · Program Registration · League Management · Coach & Athlete Management · Financial Reporting · Business Insights & Analytics · Health & Safety Compliance · Marketing · Payment Solutions    

Univerus Sport & Recreation delivers web-based software programs designed to make day-to-day activities more efficient. Our solutions save facility managers precious time, while providing customers and members with a seamless user experience.Request a demo today to see Univerus Sport & Recreation in action!
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