Stay active and connecting with others can be tough as an adult, but it’s essential for both your physical and mental well-being.

And one solution that perfectly combines both is starting a sports club—it will not only keep you fit but also offer a fun way to meet new people and build a sense of community. Follow these core steps to help you get going.

Determine your vision and objectives

Before diving into the logistics, it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish. For one, what sport are you interested in? There are a plethora of options to choose from, including soccer, running, bowling, kickball, and pickleball. Additionally, are you aiming for competitive play, recreational fun, or a good mix of both? Understanding your goals will guide you in every decision going forward, from the structure of your club to the type of members you recruit.

Research your area

Do a quick online search to determine what leagues already exist in your area; you can also reach out to your local recreation center for more insights into current offerings. (If the type of sport you’re interested in starting has a well-established club in your city, you could consider joining it instead of forming your own.) This will help you assess if you’ll have any competition for gaining members and who you could potentially play future matches against. Further, do some initial research into what you’ll need to start your club, such as equipment and funds, and if there are feasible options for where to play.

Build interest

Starting with a core group of individuals onboard will make the process smoother, so reach out to friends, colleagues, and acquaintances who might be interested in becoming members. From there, host an informal meeting to help gauge their interest level and allow them to share their ideas and expectations for your club.

Choose a structure

Once you have a few committed people, decide on the structure of your sports team. Will it be an informal group or a more organized entity with official membership and dues? Either way, you’ll want to draft a set of bylaws that outlines the rules, responsibilities, and standards for each member. Depending on your location and the nature of your club, you might also need to register with local authorities or sports organizations.

Build a budget

Launching a sports club will cost money, though the total amount will vary based on your goals and the size of it. To help prepare for these expenditures, create a budget that accounts for equipment, uniforms, facility rentals, registration fees, and other essential costs. You may have to start with estimates, but you will still be able to get a sense of your financial burdens, allowing you to determine where you may need to cut back or how much you should charge for membership dues. And the longer you operate the club, the better idea you’ll have of the exact funds it will require.

Secure a facility and equipment

Finding a suitable location to practice and play is crucial to the success of your club. Contact local parks, sports centers, schools, and community centers about their availability and costs; some venues might require a booking fee, while others may be free to use. On top of that, you’ll need to gather the necessary equipment and personnel. The former could range from basic objects like balls and nets to more specialized gear like helmets and face masks. As for the latter, you may need to seek people for umpire or referee positions should your chosen sport call for them.

Set a schedule

To keep members engaged and motivated, create a schedule of practices and competitions, such as internal matches or games with other local clubs. You can also organize social gatherings like team dinners and outings to help develop relationships off the field. These events can foster a sense of camaraderie and give members something to look forward to each week. Starting a sports club is a great way to stay active, enjoy yourself, and connect with others. While it may take time to build a successful one, if you embrace the challenge, you’ll soon have a vibrant community that brings more fun and fitness into your life.