Registration fees are going up in Jan 2025 - here's why.

November 18, 2024 - one month ago

The last time Urban Rec Hunter increased registration fees was June 2021. Since then, well, we don't really need to tell you that prices have gone up. In 2024 our venue costs have increased 9%, host pay 7%, insurance, prizes, staffing, equipment have all gone up. In 2022 + 2023 they had already gone up and we didn’t move our prices. 

In 2022 the government changed the classification so casual workers get paid Super. We value our staff and think they deserve to be paid accordingly, we didn’t want to decrease our hosts' take home pay so we covered the extra 11% super. That one cost alone, employing over 30 people casually, has added tens of thousands extra per year. To remain sustainable, we have increased all our team registration fees. Our registration fees will increase between 5-10% depending on the league. 

Urban Rec's aim is to make sport accessible to all, and pricing is one way we do that. We never want to be involved in a race to the bottom, and believe we deliver a very high level of value for registration fees you pay. As we looked into this increase we found that we are still highly competitive on price with others providing social sport in Newcastle. You can see the price a league will be changing to by viewing the leagues information on our website.  

In most cases this increase will come out at around $110 per team over a 10 week season, teams with a roster of 8 this will be an increase of $13.70 per player per season, or $1.37 per game. For us it means we can be a sustainable business for now and into the future so we can continue to deliver the high level of service off the ground, and the fun on it.  

If you want to lock in the current prices for the summer season, make sure your team registers during priority registration week (November 25th – December 3rd).   

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact us. We value each and every one of our members and always strive to provide the best experiences on and off the court. Long may this continue. 

The team at Urban Rec Hunter

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SUMMER PRIORITY REGISTRATION TERMS AND CONDITIONS

November 18, 2024 - one month ago

Priority Registration for Returning teams

Teams who are currently playing in the Spring 2024 leagues will have first opportunity to secure their teams spot into the Summer leagues before we open to the public on December 4th. 

1. Registration Overview
   • Start Date – 12:00AM on Monday, November 25th 
   • End Date – 11:59PM on Tuesday, December 3rd
2. Why Register in Priority Week
   • Secure your teams spot in the Summer Season before we open all leagues to the public on December 4th. With our leagues at 91% capacity, and a list of teams on waitlists, if teams don’t register during this week we can’t guarentee you a spot for next season.
   • Register the team before prices go up. Prices for all teams are increasing in January 2025, BUT we wanted to give all our current teams an opportunity to register at the discounted price. Pay in full or put down a deposit during this week and then pay the remaining balance by January 14th and we will honour this discounted price. Here is more information about our price increase for 2025.
3. How to Register
   • Team Captains (including those registered as individual teams) will receive a priority registration link with the discounted price at 12:00AM on November 25th.
   • Spaces are limited and will fill up quickly, so act fast to secure your spot.
   • Only the team captain can use the provided link. If you are changing captains for the upcoming Summer season, please notify us before November 22nd to ensure a smooth registration process.
4. General Conditions
   • All decisions made regarding Priority Registration and prize eligibility are final.
   • Teams must comply with all Urban Rec Hunter policies and regulations.
5. Contact Information
   • For any questions or assistance with the registration process, please contact Urban Rec Newcastle at [email protected].

By participating in the Priority Registration Week, you acknowlefge that you have read, understood and agree to these terms and conditions.

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2025 T-Shirt Design Competition

October 26, 2024 - one month ago

In 2025 we are inviting budding creatives from our club to submit their t-shirt designs for our 2024 exclusive merchandise! In previous years we have had everything from GOAT designs, a Can Man Series, and custom championship designs. 

If you would love to see your designs printed on thousands of shirts across the country, please submit your designs to [email protected]

Design Brief. 

• Maximum 5 colours

• Embodies our brand and fun first culture

• Could include messaging about winning (wither fun points or league champions)

• Will look good printed on varying shirt colours

• Opportunity to expand design into a 4 season series

• Something our members will be excited to receive and wear

• Includes the Urban Rec logo and name. 

• Can be double sided printing

If selected, you will need to be able to make edits at management's discretion and direction. 

Entries close on November 30th, winners will receive a $500 Urban Rec Voucher!

Here are some submissions from our head office, think you can do better?

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SPRING PRIORITY REGISTRATION TERMS AND CONDITIONS

September 2, 2024 - 3 months ago

As Urban Rec Central Coast gears up for the Spring Season, we’re thrilled to offer you an exclusive chance to secure your team’s spot through our Priority Registration Week. This period runs from 1:00PM on Monday, September 9th to 11:59PM Midnight on Tuesday, September 17th. Below are the essential terms and conditions to help you make the most of this opportunity.

1. Registration Overview

Priority Registration Week:

• Start Date and Time: 1:00PM on Monday, September 9th 
• End Date and Time: 11:59PM Midnight on Tuesday, September 17th 

2. Re-Registering as a Team

If you've been participating as a team or as an individual over the past 10 weeks, now is the time to re-register over this 7 day period.

3. Exclusive Prizes for Priority Registration

Tier 1 Prize:

• September 9th - $200! The first team to register and pay their team fee’s in full will receive $200 cash back on their registration fees. Be sure to register promptly on September 9th to claim this prize. The earliest completed registration and full team payment will win this prize!

Tier 2 Prize:

• September 12th – $100! All teams that register on Thursday September 12th will go in the draw to win $100 cash back on their registration. . Full payment is required to qualify for this draw.

Tier 3 Prize:

• September 17th  – $50! Teams that complete Priority Registration and pay in full by the end of the registration period will be entered into the draw to win $50 cashback on their registration. Full payment is required to qualify for this draw.

4. How to Register

• Team captains (including those registering as individual teams) will receive a priority registration link starting at 1:00PM on September 9th.
• Spaces are limited and will fill up quickly, so act fast to secure your spot.
• Only the team captain can use the provided link. If you are changing captains for the upcoming Spring season, please notify us before September 8th to ensure a smooth registration process.

6. General Conditions

• All decisions made regarding Priority Registration and prize eligibility are final.
• Teams must comply with all Urban Rec Central Coast policies and regulations.

7. Contact Information

For any questions or assistance with the registration process, please contact Urban Rec Central Coast at [email protected].

By participating in the Priority Registration Week, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms and conditions.

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Sorry my dog ate my bibs...

January 15, 2024 - 11 months ago

This way, you keep your bibs and the world is a better place!

Urban Rec have teamed up with a sportswear manufacturer to design and make Urban Rec reversible Netty Bibs. No team will ever colour clash again!

Over the last 5 years exactly 2,334,345 sets of Netball bibs have not been returned at the end of the season. A further 5,345,232 sets of Netball bibs have been replaced due to missing GK & C positions. 400,000 have been eaten by the dog and 356,987 sets entered the washing machine to never be seen again…

So we’ve decided that instead of shoveling a monumental amount of aussie dollars into the ever growing netball bib furnace, we are going to make all new sets available to purchase online HERE. Moving forward each team will be responsible for providing their own bibs each season.

Joining forces with Access Social Sport these bibs will be available to purchase HERE - 100% of the funds raised will be received in its entirety by the beneficiaries of Access Social Sports charitable donations. Every Set is a Donation to an amazing cause.

More on Access Social Sport and the causes it helps.

UR HQ

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How Can You Be Involved

January 15, 2024 - 11 months ago

Access to mental health resources remains a significant hurdle for many young Australians. The stigma surrounding mental health issues can deter people from seeking help, perpetuating a cycle of suffering in silence. This year, we’re ‘changing the game’.

Urban Rec is calling our community to come together in 2024 to support our cause. Here are some ways to help us, “Change The Game”. 

ATTEND ONE OF OUR FREE MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION SESSIONS

Each session covers the signs and symptoms of mental ill health, how to start the conversation and how to support an individual going through a mental health challenge. The next session has free tickets available now. 

Donate $50 to get a kid or an adult into ORGANISED sport

Sport is a recreational privilege, we know that. You can donate $50 which will go directly to kids or adults that do not have the money to pay for the access. Urban Rec have started the year by adding 20 vouchers for anyone who needs them. 

Attend one of our charity Tournaments

The next one is happening in Wollongong on Feb 11, The Superbowl Flag Gridiron Tournament. All the proceeds from these Charity Events are donated to OTLR. Plus, you get an amazing day out, in the sun, playing sport!

Get Involved in Mates In March (9k’s in 9 days)

This March we are partnering with OTLR for their initiative, Mates In March. We lose 9 people to suicide each month, this March, walk or run 9 kms for any 9 days during the month. Then, spread the word on social media. 

BUY MERCH FROM OUR ASSOCIATION

All the merch available within our shop goes directly to our Association, raising funds for partner charities or making sport accessible to other minorities. 

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URBAN REC X SHOUT BREWING

October 24, 2023 - one year ago

How good is finsihing a game of Urban Rec and heading to get a beer and a feed with your amazing teammates for a post game debrief and a laugh!!
 

We have teamed up with the amazing Independant brewhouse Shout Brewing Co to sponsor our Spring 2023 Individual Teams as well as be our local clubhouse for all your post game debriefs! 

This brewhouse is EPIC! Its tucked away on Clyde Street Islington but oh boy does it impress! They regularly brew their own beer at the venue and sometimes you can see it happening right in front of your eyes. They have a happy hour ($2 off every schooner) Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 1pm-4pm, Thursday night they have Trivia from 6:30pm wiht sometimes a guest host (could your team captain be a guest host one week after your game?). Shout Brewing also have lunch Specials 12pm-3pm on Fridays and you can rock out wht some live music on Sunday Afternoons from 2pm. Sounds like a pretty eventful week/weekend. They aso have a great range of takeaway beers stocked in their bar. Can’t stay for another? Grab a 4 pack of their new mid-strength ‘Catch Of the Day’ or mix and match a 6-pack for some variety! (Delicious BTW). 

As well as being an epic venue with deals and specials all week long, as Urban Rec members they are offering us 15% off food and bar. (See below for Member Perks)
 

MEMBER PERKS:

• 15% off any drinks at the Bar (Tap Beers, Wine, Cider, Juices/Sodas etc) {YUM}
  When? Wednesday – Sunday
   
• 15% off Food from the Kitchen (Currenlty Pizzas and Charcuterie boards) {YUMx2} 
  When? Friday – Sunday
   

HOW CAN WE REDEEM THESE DICOUNTS?

To redeem these perks you will need to download our ‘Urban Rec App’ and present this app with your ‘Member ID’ to the staff at the bar. 

DO YOU PLAY IN A ‘SHOUT BREWING’ INDIVIDUAL TEAM?

Did you know we currenlty have 12x Shout Brewing Individual Teams playing in Urban Rec Hunter? Yep! All repping some pretty sweet Shout Brewing T-Shirts. Do you play in one of these teams? 

1. Shout Brewing Magic – Tuesday Multisport 
2. Shout Brewing Mavericks – Maitland Multisport
3. Shout Brewing Hoop Heroes – Tuesday Netball 
4. Shout Brewing Marlins – Thursday Multisport 
5. Shout Brewing Legends – Wednesday Multisport  
6. Shout Brewing Chargers – Thursday Basketball 
7. Shout Brewing Newy Knights – Thursday Touch Footy 
8. Shout Brewing Force – Monday Street Soccer 
9. Shout Brewing Knights – Monday Street Soccer
10. Shout Brewing Hoop Hotshots – Wednesday Netball 
11. Shout Brewing Tillies – Thursday Soccer 5’s
12. Shout Brewing United – Thursday Soccer 5’s

SHOUT BREWING CO, ISLINGTON

Shout  Brewing is a small batch craft brewery based in Islington, Newcastle, NSW. Their 22 Clyde Street venue features on-site bar and kitchen with the capacity for tours, food events, post game beers, pre game beers (gutsy) and good times. Their bar is open Midday to 10pm Wednesday to Saturdays, and Midday to 8pm on Sunday. And guess what? They are dog friendly! 

Whether you’re meeting your team for the first time or have been a team with Urban Rec for a while and love your post game catch ups over a beer, Shout Brewing is a great place to get a decent priced drink and a great feed. 

FUN FACT:

Do you know why they are named “Shout Brewing?”

‘Shout’
informal Australian
treat (someone) to (something, especially a drink) 
"I'll shout you a beer" 

Nothing says Aussie Legends like Shouting your mate a beer! 
 

Shout Brewing Co
Website: https://www.shoutbrewing.com.au/home
Hours – 

• Monday – CLOSED
• Tuesday – CLOSED
• Wednesday – 12pm - 8pm
• Thursday – 12pm – 10pm
• Friday – 12pm – 10pm
• Saturday - 12pm – 10pm
• Sunday – 12pm – 8pm

Adress: 22 Clyde St, Islington NSW 2296

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BENEFITS OF PLAYING SOCIAL TEAM SPORTS?

July 18, 2023 - one year ago

Engaging in social team sports offers a wide range of benefits that can positively impact physical, mental, and social well-being. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Physical Health: Team sports provide an excellent way to stay physically active and improve overall fitness. Regular participation in sports helps enhance cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, improve coordination, and increase flexibility.

2. Weight Management: Being actively involved in team sports can assist in maintaining a healthy body weight. The combination of physical activity and social engagement can be more motivating and enjoyable, leading to more consistent exercise habits.

3. Mental Health: Social team sports can have a significant positive impact on mental well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, reducing stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

4. Social Interaction: Participating in team sports provides an opportunity to socialize and build meaningful connections with others. It helps develop teamwork, communication, and cooperation skills, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging.

5. Stress Reduction: Engaging in sports with a team can be a great way to unwind and take a break from daily stressors. It serves as a healthy outlet for managing stress and pent-up emotions.

6. Confidence and Self-Esteem: Achieving personal and team goals in sports can boost self-confidence and self-esteem. It provides a sense of accomplishment and empowers individuals to take on challenges in other aspects of life.

7. Time Management and Discipline: Committing to regular team practices and games instills discipline and time management skills, as players need to balance their sports activities with other responsibilities.

8. Problem-Solving Skills: Team sports often involve strategic planning and decision-making. Players learn to adapt to changing situations, analyze opponents' strategies, and find effective solutions on the fly.

9. Cultural and Social Understanding: In diverse teams, players get exposed to different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding among individuals.

10. Long-lasting Friendships: Team sports often create strong bonds among teammates, leading to lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging to a community.

11. Healthy Competition: Healthy competition in team sports can be motivating and push individuals to improve their skills and performance, striving for personal and team excellence.

12. Character Development: Team sports teach important values like discipline, perseverance, sportsmanship, and respect for others, helping individuals grow as well-rounded individuals.

Overall, social team sports provide a holistic approach to physical and mental well-being while promoting social integration and personal development. Whether it's in a competitive league or a casual recreational setting, participating in team sports can lead to a happier and healthier lifestyle.

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TIPS FOR (ACTUALLY) SOCIAL BASKETBALL

June 30, 2023 - one year ago

What’s up players?!! Did you know that social basketball is played in almost all of Urban Rec’s locations around Australia? If you're keen on having a ripper time on the court and shooting hoops with your mates, then social basketball is where it's at! Whether you're a seasoned baller or just starting out, we've got a few tips to help you make the most of your game and avoid any rookie mistakes. Grab your sneakers and let's get into it!

First things first, it's all about teamwork. Our basketball leagues are more about having fun rather than winning championships (okay okay we know winning is awesome but having fun is actually better!). Make sure you communicate with your team and play off each other's strengths. 

Now, let's talk about defense! Playing solid D can make a huge difference in the game. Get in your opponent's face, use your wingspan, and don't be afraid to get a bit physical. Just don't go overboard and commit any fouls that'll earn you a trip to the bench! Keep it friendly and have a laugh along the way.

When it comes to shooting, practice makes perfect!. Hit up the local court or your backyard and work on your jump shot. Get your aim right, focus on your form, and don't forget to follow through with that flick of the wrist! If you miss a shot, no worries, mate. Keep your chin up and hustle for the rebound. There's always another opportunity to sink that three-pointer!

Another thing to keep in mind is fitness. Basketball can be a real cardio workout, so make sure you're in decent nick so you don’t let your teammates down. Run some laps, do some sprints, and get those lungs pumping. Don't forget to stretch before and after the game to avoid any injuries. The last thing you want to do is pull out of your game! That ain’t fun.

Lastly, don't be a ball hog. Sharing is caring, and in social basketball, everyone deserves a fair go. Pass the ball, involve your teammates, and make sure everyone gets their fair share of play time. Remember, the more everyone gets involved, the more fun it'll be for everyone!

So there you have it, there’s a few handy tips to keep in mind for your social basketball sessions. Play hard, have a laugh, and enjoy the banter with your mates. Just remember, it's not all about the scoreboard, but about the good times you'll have both on and off the court. Now go out there, give it a red-hot crack, and may the basketball gods be on your side!

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HOW DOES NETBALL HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT?

June 29, 2023 - one year ago

Did you know that you burn an estimate of 449 calories in a 45 minute netball game? That is equivalent to 4 Gin and Tonics or 2 chocolate bars!

Netball is an epic sport that can help with a common new year's resolution almost all of us have. Do you have any guesses as to what we’re referring to? It’s weightloss! Netball is fast-paced as the nature of the game involves constant running, jumping, and changes in direction. You’re going to start working up a sweat within 5 minutes of playing and while you’re catching your breath, don’t give up just yet. Be sure to remember that playing netball helps to increase cardiovascular fitness, burn fat, and improve muscle tone. 

We mentioned that running and jumping are a part of netball but how does someone actually lose weight while playing netball? The thing is, you need to move quickly and efficiently using a combination of strength, agility, and coordination to outmaneuver opponents and score points. The intensity of the game means that players can burn a significant number of calories in a relatively short amount of time, making netball a great option for those looking to lose weight. Playing for a short time and burning a lot of calories sounds like a dream come true really! 

While netball is super great for weight loss, it is also a social sport that can help to improve mental wellbeing. Joining a netball team can provide a sense of camaraderie and belonging, as well as the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. This social aspect can be particularly beneficial for those who may be struggling with weight loss and looking for support and encouragement from others. Playing netball can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be a common trigger for overeating or unhealthy food choices.

Here at Urban Rec, we love to support our community in achieving their goals. Whether it’s about trying to lose weight, learning a new sport, making new friends or all three and much more! Netball is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels which is what Urban rec is all about! Urban Rec provides a sustainable and enjoyable way to incorporate regular exercise into your lifestyle, leading to long-term weight loss and improved overall health.

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