CWPA Releases 2008 Men's National Collegiate Club Championship Feedback Summary

BRIDGEPORT, Pa. -- The Collegiate Water Polo Association has released the feedback survey summary from the 2008 Men's National Collegiate Club Championship on November 14-16 at Ohio University.

The league hopes to be able to implement these suggestions and appreciate everyone that took the time to submit their comments.

Key: 3 = Excellent; 2 = Satisfactory; 1 = Needs Improvement

Category Average of Respondents

Could you hear the announcer? - 2
Did you enjoy the music selections? - 3
Was merchandise adequate? - 3
Was CWPA staff helpful and courteous? - 3
Was facility easy to find? - 3
What did you think of the hotel? - 3
What did you think of the photos taken? - 3

Regarding comments that would make the tournament better, many people requested that the site and location should be listed earlier. We agree! This year seven divisions declined their opportunity to host, with each instance delaying the process. This was the first time in our history more than two divisions declined. Hopefully we will have the 2009 site confirmed by late winter.

Some folks made specific comments about the actual facility including the following:

• Place shot clocks & seating without impaired sight lines i.e., railing
• Lower water temperature
• Easier airport access
• Circulating fans in the spectator area
• Better score board
• A large lobby/foyer to meet with the teams immediately following the games

Each facility will have its good and bad points. The membership has always felt that rotating the site around the country is a better alternative than securing one location that is perfect in every way. We have certain minimum standards which Ohio University met without a problem, but some of the items stated above are not part of the requirements for hosting.

Regarding tournament management, most indicated they could hear the announcer well, although some indicated it was dependent upon crowd noise, while others felt it occasionally was muffled. 99% seemed to enjoy the music selections with several making suggestions of their own.

CWPA staff members were given high marks across the board for their helpfulness.

The spectator area seemed to have a recurring theme regarding a railing blocking the view of the pool. For the most part the fans were well behaved and crowd control was not an issue. Some spectators requested athletes be prevented from sitting in the stands to afford better seating for fans.

Photographs were unanimously appreciated.

Those that stayed at the hotels were very pleased with both properties and recommended they be used in the future.

Merchandise selection was well received.  A few people wanted to see more variety of t-shirts. Other suggestions included magnets and stickers. Some suggested the names of the teams should be listed on the backs of the tournament shirt. Unfortunately the timing between the last team qualifying and the beginning of the tournament (including staff travel) prevents this from being possible.

Individuals commented that they liked the information provided on the website including the timeliness of the game postings. Some people made statements about information they would like to see that is currently available on the site, so it may take time for individuals to become familiar with its navigation.

Suggestions about the awards ceremony included using the podium (it was too small for the teams), giving awards to the third place team immediately following the third place game, and playing the winning team’s school song.

Other comments:

We would like each team to be allowed one person on deck to film or photograph

CWPA Note: We try to carefully manage deck access for both insurance and game management reasons. It is therefore not possible to have additional photographers on deck. Those desiring digital photos may contact the office directly.

Host a cocktail party for everyone-all teams to meet and greet

CWPA Note: We have tried to coordinate this in the past and teams have not supported the idea.

More snack choices

CWPA Note: The host institution makes the decision regarding the food and beverage service provided.

Make it more financially fair so any school could host the event and isn't a huge burden on the host.

CWPA Note: The host institution only bears the cost of feeding the 12 staff and referees for the weekend and paying for any pool rental or facility staff. At most schools the pool and staff are provided for free and many locations get the food donated from area restaurants. All other costs are covered by the CWPA.