Unusual and interesting club site

[TJ Mason]

The Netherhall Archers, located in Cambridgeshire, have made their club site a Wiki. This means that anybody who has registered can edit the contents:
http://www.netherhallarchers.org.uk/wiki/Home

Pretty brave!

What do people think a club site needs? The site I've developed for my club is just a straightforward information site, but it's been doing the job so far. What features do you think make for a club site that stands out?

[morphymick]

I've just signed up for an account, the link page is going to get an AIUK link this very evening, hopefully, awaiting a password.

Mick

[Shirt]

Minimal number of photos of people standing by targets - it only appeals to those who know who the hell everyone is, which means not many of the visitors.
No "for sale" board - the traffic isn't enough to sell it, and it's always out of date.
Clear contact details, ideally someone that checks their email on a semiregular basis.
Clear explanation of shooting times and locations and visitors fees.

[Little Miss Purple]

A tournament page, I think Bronte & Wakefield have a huge following mostly due to their excellent tournament information.

[clickerati]

I think having a public and a members' section is a good feature. Of course, that takes more website management. I always think club histories are nice, as well photos of committee members and the grounds. It helps newbies know who and what they're looking for. Directions and map are helpful, too.

I think the photojournalist in me likes the websites with candid action photos, not necessarily of people on the shooting line, but of members setting up the range, stringing their bows, events, awards dinners, etc. Candid shots that show the club is active, friendly and approachable.

[Marcus26]

I am a web developer by trade (although leaving the industry)
A basic club site should have
Easy to find contact information
Directions to the grounds
Any important information on your facilities, shooting times etc

A great club site should have
As above
High quality photos
promote the archers, not the sport
Calendar, league, tournaments results
MUST BE UPDATED

Design tips are
DO NOT USE ANIMATED GIFS
do not use glaring patterned backgrounds
Avoid 'websafe' colours. They are seriously ugly
keep the images high quality, but small in size.
Don't use frontpage, it's seriously bad
Avoid cheesy photos. Please don't do the "it's a sport of all ages" or "it's a family sport" we are doing ourselves more harm than we realise.
Use action photos, people shooting, no standing around looking bored
Promote your top shooters. Even if they are not world class, they are your club's top. It will encourage more people to try.

http://www.dva.asn.au/

[Dave]

Originally Posted by Marcus26

Design tips are
DO NOT USE ANIMATED GIFS
do not use glaring patterned backgrounds
Avoid 'websafe' colours. They are seriously ugly
keep the images high quality, but small in size.
Don't use frontpage, it's seriously bad
Avoid cheesy photos.

[clickerati]

I have a feeling Marcus wants to ring the necks of a few websites


ouch

[morphymick]

Excellent site Marcus, everything where it should be.

Mick

[tel]

As MM said "excellent"....though you say you're leaving the trade I'm assuming this is one of yours? If so, just one thing I thought I'd point out - you appear to have the top two TAotY Mens Compound round the wrong way!