AD Insights: How Booster Clubs Can Lead, Fundraise & Stay Compliant with Scott Garvis

When a “game” becomes a full-blown event, booster clubs and athletic directors feel the pressure—more volunteers, more fundraising, more compliance, and higher expectations from fans and families.  

In this Boosted Volunteer Podcast episode, Robin Eissler welcomes Scott Garvis, a Certified Master Athletic Administrator and Activities Director at Newton High School (Iowa), to break down what athletic directors need most from booster clubs today—and how booster leaders can build support systems that actually work.

Scott shares why “people power” is the biggest challenge schools face, how to create a student-focused fan experience, and why structure, transparency, and compliance protect both your club and your community.

Key Takeaways:

• 2:23 The Volunteer Gap: Scott discusses the 27% decline in volunteerism since COVID and why "people power" is the most valuable currency a Booster Club provides to an AD.
• 3:18 The Shift in Coaching: Discover why 70% of coaches now come from outside the teaching profession and how this changes the support they need from parents.
• 4:24 Making Moments, Not Just Games: Learn how ADs are shifting focus toward the "fan experience" and creating memories that stick with families long after graduation.
• 7:55 Student-Led Success: Why establishing a Student Athletic Advisory Council is the secret weapon for ensuring your fundraising and facilities actually meet the students' needs.
• 11:25 The "All-Sports" Umbrella Model: Scott explains why consolidating into a single 501(c)(3) saves time, ensures Title IX compliance, and prevents individual parents from facing unexpected tax burdens.
• 24:41 The Power of Local Loyalty: Why high school sports brand recognition outperforms NASCAR in customer loyalty—and how to use that to land sponsors.
• 34:10 Advice for New Volunteers: The single most "refreshing" question a new volunteer can ask their Athletic Director.

Resources:

• Website: https://scottgarvisconsulting.com/
• Beyond the Bench Podcast
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottgarvis