The AVP Crocs Tour is in Mason, OH, just north of Cincinnati. As I type, I am watching the "Golden Girls" team (May-Treanor/Walsh) play on NBC and the joint is jumping.

Yesterday, I did make it out to watch some live action. The entire experience is a lesson in fan-friendly planning designed to create a beach lifestyle. The sponsors are positioned around the courts to create this experience. You will find title sponsor, Crocs, selling Crocs, (duh) along with Cuervo, Naked Juice and DIG volleyball magazine.

After the players practice or play, they can often times be seen sitting in the stands with fans, signing autographs and just hanging out.

The AVP is often called one of the hottest tours in sports thanks to their accessible and successful players as well as their sponsor support.

Other events should take a page out of the AVP's book:
-Make the event fan friendly with interactive displays
-Ask the players to be accessible and create fan interactive opps
-Don't sell out for cash. Partner with sponsors who make sense and help expand the event and the tour brand