Before we attempt to cover ways of presenting information to the News Providers we must identify the contact person or persons for each paper or station. Calling each outlet and asking for this information is the first step in your newfound publicity program. Each club should have a designated individual or committee to handle this activity. If you are allowed on your first call to speak with the person who covers sports or news, attempt to obtain any family information available. If you can convert this individual to a Judo player or involve his child or children think of the coverage and the possibility of insured coverage through their involvement.
Most clubs offer a FREE club membership to members of the press.
This arrangement is usually only between the club coach and the press person and is not publicized to the general club members. Publicity is one of the most important parts of club operation. Each individual who becomes aware of your club is a booster of sorts and has an impact on the general publics attitude. These are the individuals who in one fashion or another support your membership. There are three general types of Newspapers with subdivisions under each.