A conceptual model for event development through sport

The Redbird Rumble is a dynamic and engaging sport administration event concept designed to serve as a hands-on learning experience and fundraising initiative for students in the Ball State University Sport Administration Program. Centered around the growing popularity of pickleball, this tournament provides undergraduate and graduate students with a practical opportunity to apply sport event planning, marketing, sponsorship, operations, and community engagement skills in a real-world setting. Designed with scalability and accessibility in mind, the Redbird Rumble offers a multidivision tournament structure accommodating players of varying skill levels, including students, faculty, alumni, and local community members. The event promotes inclusivity, healthy competition, and campus-community connections, while providing a meaningful platform for students to take ownership of event planning responsibilities from start to finish. Key components of the Redbird Rumble include: Event Planning & Logistics - students lead venue selection, scheduling, equipment coordination, and risk management planning; Marketing & Promotions - promotional strategies include digital campaigns, campus media, and community outreach to drive participation and visibility; Sponsorship & Fundraising - students solicit local business sponsorships and explore creative fundraising avenues to support academic programs, scholarships, or nonprofit causes; Volunteer & Staff Management - students recruit, train, and manage volunteers and event-day staff, cultivating leadership and communication skills; and Evaluation & Reflection - post-event assessments measure outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and encourage reflective learning. As a student-centered initiative, the Redbird Rumble aligns with academic goals while enhancing experiential learning, career readiness, and university visibility. It serves not only as a capstone-style project but also as a potential annual tradition that strengthens program identity and alumni engagement.