Organizing Team Gear: How To Keep Group Uniforms, Pom Poms, And Accessories Tidy

Being part of a team is an important part of healthy development for kids. Studies show that participating in groups such as cheerleading, competitive sports, and clubs helps kids learn to better interact with peers, experience both wins and losses, work out differences, and more. But these fun and healthy activities present some fairly serious organizational challenges for parents and coaches who keep team gear at home. 

Between items such as uniforms, shoes, hair and makeup accessories, and cheer poms, it’s important to get a handle on it so things don’t — literally — start piling up! When you learn to successfully corral everything, you’ll be able to happily take advantage of extra gear and cheer uniforms for sale without worrying about where you’ll store it all once you get home. 

Start With a Defined Drop Zone 

Choose one space in the house where all team gear will live. That might be a spot near the entryway, a corner of a bedroom, or a section of the laundry room. Keep it small and clearly defined. Use a basket for each child, a set of labeled hooks, or even a cube organizer with bins. Once that zone is in place, it becomes the go-to spot for uniforms, practice clothes, and accessories — no more gear drifting across every room. 

Use Clear Storage and Simple Labels 

Uniforms and cheer gear tend to include small parts that are easy to lose: bows, socks, hair ties, safety pins. Use clear plastic bins or drawers so you can see what’s inside without digging. Create broad categories such as “Uniform Pieces,” “Shoes,” or “Extras,” and label each one. The goal is quick access and low effort, especially for those many times when you’re heading out the door and don’t have time to hunt for the right socks. 

Make Hanging Space Work Harder 

Uniforms stay in better shape, and less wrinkly, when hung up, and that also keeps them out of piles. If you’re tight on closet space, consider a hanging rack behind a door or a tension rod in an unused nook. Assign a hanger for each event type (practice, competition, or game day) and keep those outfits laundered, rotated, and ready. 

Make a “Go Bag” 

Scrambling should take place on the sports field, not in the kitchen. Get your team player their own large “go bag” and stock it with event-day essentials. This would be all the things that your busy child goes looking for at the last minute. Think extra hair ties, safety pins, snacks, and backup uniforms, cheer poms, socks, mouth guards, etc. For extra points, take it a step further and print a checklist and tuck it inside the bag’s front pocket. After each event, restock what’s missing. This small step prevents last-minute rushing. 

Reset Weekly to Avoid Pileups 

At the end of each week, take 10 minutes to reset the system. Toss dirty items in the wash, put everything back in its labeled place, and clear out any items that snuck into the wrong bin. A weekly reset is more manageable than waiting for the clutter to take over. If kids are old enough, involve them in the process. They’ll be more likely to stick with the system if they help maintain it. 

Rotate Seasonally 

Once the season wraps up, pack away the gear in a labeled bin. Include everything from uniforms to bows so you’re not digging through offseason items when the next activity starts. Store the bin somewhere accessible, like a closet shelf or under a bed. When the next season begins, you’ll know exactly where to find what you need and what still fits. 

A Little Structure Saves a Lot of Stress 

Organizing team gear doesn’t require fancy containers or a full closet makeover. It just needs a simple structure that everyone in the household can follow. When uniforms have a place, accessories are easy to grab, and bags are prepped in advance, daily routines run smoother and faster, relieving stress and the need to try and save time getting there in the car or racing onto the field. 

Not only will your home feel more organized, but your child will feel more confident heading into practices and events knowing exactly where everything is and that they have all their essentials on hand. And that’s a win for your team! 

AUTHOR BIO: Jennifer Cronin is Vice President of Cheerleading Company, Inc., a Dallas-based manufacturer and retailer of custom cheerleading and dance uniforms, apparel, and accessories. With more than 25 years of tenure, Cronin oversees all facets of the company with a customer-centric approach. 

Sources: 

https://www.varsity.com/news/benefits-of-cheer/ 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9180162/ 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3751802/ 

How To Organize A Pickleball Paddle Collection In Your Home

In the past year, I have purchased between 25 and 50 pickleball paddles, but I am getting to the point where I either need to optimize to hide this now “large” equipment or transform my garage showcase the paddles.

So, let’s go through how you may also organize your rapidly growing pickleball paddle collection.

And just for your own reference, I decided to use my garage to organize my pickleball paddle collection.

And, this is still very much a work in progress.

1. Sell Unused Pickleball Paddles

If you can get rid of unused pickleball paddles, you may free up space almost immediately.

For example, while I extensively reviewed the Niupipo pickleball paddle I find that I rarely use the paddle when comparing it to my Vatic Pro 14mm vs 16mm pickleball paddle.

So before you begin organizing, you may consider getting rid of unused pickleball paddles or even cheap pickleball paddles.

2. Use Wall-Mounted Racks

One of the best ways to save space is by using wall-mounted racks. I plan to have a few in my garage and they work wonders.

1. Vertical Storage: Mount the racks vertically to maximize wall space. This keeps the paddles off the ground and easily accessible.

2. Easy Access: Wall racks make it simple to grab and go. I don’t have to dig through a pile to find the paddle I need.

3. Protective Holders: Choose racks with protective holders to avoid scratching the paddles. This keeps them in good conditions.

3. Utilize Pegboards

Pegboards are another great option for organizing. They offer flexibility and efficiency.

1. Customizable Layout: I love how customizable pegboards are. You can arrange hooks and holders any way you like.

2. Holds Accessories: Pegboards aren’t just for paddles. You can also hang balls, bags, and other accessories.

3. Affordable Solution: They’re relatively inexpensive. You can find pegboards at most hardware stores.

4. Install Overhead Storage

If you’re really tight on space, look up! Overhead storage can be a game-changer.

1. Utilize Ceiling Space: Overhead racks make use of otherwise wasted ceiling space. I plan to install a couple in my garage and it’s made a big difference.

2. Store Less Frequently Used Items: I can keep my less frequently used paddles and gear up there. It’s a great place for off-season storage.

3. Safe and Secure: Make sure the racks are securely installed to avoid any accidents.

5. Use Shelving Units

Shelving units are versatile and provide ample storage. They can fit in tight spaces and are very practical.

1. Compact Design: I found a narrow shelving unit that fits perfectly in my garage. It doesn’t take up much floor space.

2. Adjustable Shelves: Look for units with adjustable shelves. This allows you to customize the height based on your needs.

3. Additional Storage Bins: Use bins or baskets on the shelves to keep things organized. Label them for easy identification.

6. Create a Dedicated Storage Corner

Sometimes, a small dedicated corner can make a big difference. Here’s how I set up mine.

1. Corner Shelves: Install corner shelves to maximize the use of space. They’re perfect for holding paddles and gear.

2. Hooks and Hangers: Add hooks and hangers for bags and other equipment. This keeps everything off the floor.

3. Compact Storage Solutions: Use compact storage solutions like stackable bins. They’re great for keeping smaller items organized.

7. Keep It Tidy with a Storage Bench

A storage bench is a dual-purpose solution. It offers seating and storage in one.

1. Multifunctional: You may consider a storage bench. It’s a great place to sit and change shoes, and it holds my paddles and gear.

2. Hidden Storage: The hidden storage keeps everything out of sight and makes the garage look tidier.

3. Easy to Access: It’s easy to open and access my paddles. Plus, it’s a comfortable spot to rest after a game.

Final Thoughts

Organizing my pickleball paddle collection in my small garage has been doable albeit difficult.

Selling unused pickleball paddles, wall-mounted racks, pegboards, overhead storage, shelving units, a dedicated storage corner, and storage benches are all excellent solutions. 

I am hoping that these tips can keep my paddle collection fresh and fun. Hopefully, these tips can help you make the most of your small garage space too.

Guest Post - 8 brilliant sports to try when moving into a new neighborhood

If you’ve just moved into a new neighborhood, it’s easy to feel like an outsider.

Unless you move to be with friends or family, making new contacts can be daunting.

Sport is the best leveller, no matter who you are, if you can share your love for the sport, you will make new friends without even trying. 

The other benefits include:

• Finding a new sport you love

• Becoming fit and socializing 

• And even boosting your self esteem

Let's have a look at the best sports to try when moving into a new neighborhood.

Starting off with…

1. Rugby

Rugby is a great team sport, and the post-match activities are even better! Most people think of Rugby as a male-dominated sport; however, there is a women's league, and more importantly, it's popular with kids, especially those with loads of excess energy.

Boys and girls can play touch rugby from 4 years old and at that age, it's just a lot of running around and playing tag, which leaves parents on the touchline to chat with others. Perfect for networking and if you used to play and want to take it up again, there’s always the veteran’s team.

2. Football

Football is an obvious choice, the local club is family orientated and relies on volunteers to help with kids football and associated activities. It’s just a case of signing up to pay the subs, and you’re part of the team.

With women's football featured on the television every week, football as a sport has become more inclusive and this is true of local clubs, after all, without players and spectators, there is no club.

Another sport you can try when moving into a new neighborhood is…

3. Kayaking 

The great thing about kayaking is that you can do it in any weather. All you need to do is take to the water and glide. Kayaking clubs up and down the country have been able to continue through the pandemic as they operate exclusively outside.

You even have the option of pairing up or kayaking in three’s or blissfully alone. All you need is a basic premise of what to look out for when kayaking and the right kit. Most clubs will provide the equipment, but it can be great to have your kayak, take to the water and get some much needed time out.

No sea legs? What about a game of tennis?

4. Tennis

Tennis clubs offer a friendly introduction into the neighborhood. Whether your style is more John McEnroe than Rafael Nadal, it doesn’t matter - although shouting at the umpire is not recommended.

You don’t have to join a club to play tennis; tennis is a game you can play in the park, mixed doubles or singles. Kids love tennis, and the court is easy and inexpensive to hire in your local open space.

5. Golf

If you're lucky enough to live near a golf course, you should consider joining. Golf has moved on from the old stereotype male-dominated sports with men only clubhouses. 

Ladies golf is more popular than ever according to Golf Digest; women make up 41% of off-course members. While men dominate the professional game and this is likely to continue. Golf is still a great team sport and excellent exercise as the walk to the 18th hole is about six miles give or take a trip to the bunker.

Always fancied yourself in whites? Try cricket.

6. Cricket

Imagine a sunny day and the local cricket club playing on the green. Cricket is fun for those who play and others who just want to watch.

Team sports need team members and cricket clubs are always looking for fresh talent and back up support, people to make tea, run the bar, or just turn up and clap. Cricket is a laid back way to meet new people.

Do you love the Tour de France? If you do, cycling might be for you.

7. Cycling 

Cycling clubs have sprung up all over the country, every Sunday without fail lycra-clad individuals can be seen everywhere.

A unique form of exercise, generally the clubs organize themselves into areas, so if you’re new to the neighborhood, this is a great way to meet new people.

If all this team sport is exhausting and you would like to try something sedate, what about fishing?

8. Fishing 

Surprisingly fishing is one of the most popular sports after football and kayaking. Considered by non-anglers as more of a pastime than a sport, fishing is something you can do alone or as a group. 

Think about the endless opportunities to talk about the one that got away with all your new friends and neighbors in the local pub. 

Author Bio:

Alistair is a writer for Kayak Reviewer and is dedicated to educating, informing, and inspiring users online. He's also an SEO Executive at Breakline! You can follow him on Twitter @AlistairKnight3

Guest Post - 6 Hacks to Hide Large Sports Equipment

Being in sports is a drug of a kind. The more you explore more, the more you delve yourself in it and the more space you need to occupy the sports equipment. And at no point, you are going to regret buying all those sports equipment until there is no space to walk in your garage. So, what do you do?  

No, don’t think about throwing them away. We know how much you love them, and there is no way you can afford to lose them. So why don’t we think about how to store sports equipment. Keep reading to find some nice tricks to hide your sports equipment for home.

Use the Vertical Space

All of us know that Sports Equipment keeps lying around on the floor. And you keep struggling trying to not run over them or keeping it on it's designated space. So why not try making space in the vertical space. It will give more space in the designated room.

Take a look around in the room and find out stuff that you can arrange in the vertical space. You can use add shelves to make this possible. Put some of the sports equipment and accessories on the shelves, and you will manage to make space on the ground. This is one of the best ways on how to organize sports equipment.

Storage Bins

How can you expect your football or your basketball to stand still in one place? They will always do what they have done, moving around. So, it becomes your task to put them in a safe space. Storage bins are going to be your BFFs in this scenario, not just for the balls but other sports equipment like trekking shoes, tents, backpacks, etc.

Now, you must be wondering why not take a closet instead of a storage bin? So, here is the reason, Storage bins are also great for mobility purposes. Anytime you have a spontaneous trip, you can simply take this utility box with necessary sports equipment and supplies and throw it in the back of your car.

Stick Stuff on Wall

When things are stuck on the wall, it gives an impression that it’s a part of it. It doesn’t seem like they have occupied any space. 

Start with buying a shoe hanger. Mostly, it’s against the back of the wall but if you have a nice collection that you want to show off, you can put it out there on the wall. And it’s not mandatory to just put shoes on it. You can put your camp cooking gear, headlamps, hats and gloves. A shoe hanger is great to keep all your stuff aligned. 

Here is another idea. Put your good looking gear as wall art. Go through your sports equipment list once and find out one those few things that will look beautiful on the walls. Gear as art is indeed a very trendy thing these days. You can put up your bike, snowboard, or skis. You can even install some pegboard on an empty wall and hang your backpacks, tools, and other gear in an aesthetic way.

Utilize Ceiling Space

If the wall space and the vertical space don’t suffice, consider using the ceiling space. It won’t be that hard. You can purchase an overhead storage system to create a convenient space. It is very easy and fast to construct and provide long-lasting results.

Be Creative with Upcycling and Recycling

The art of upcycling and recycling is popular, and it is endorsed by many. People use the best of their abilities to upcycle/recycle the products that they are planning to get rid of. If you have furniture or equipment that are lying around and are of no use, it’s time that you have a look at them again, but with a different perspective. Try relooking at them in a new way. 

For example, an old piece of furniture could be used vertically to hang stuff. Think of ways to turn trash to treasure. 

Make a Customizable System

It’s your sports equipment room, and you know what’s the perfect thing to do to make it your room more organized and spacious. Survey your room, see where to store sports equipment. Now decide, how will you create an easy-to-manage system with your DIY skills and if you don’t want to DIY, going to a sporting goods store is an option. You will find various slats, hooks and bins. You can also find customized storage centers so that you don’t have to find where to hide sports equipment.

To Sum Up

Given hacks have been fruitful to many sports enthusiasts, it has helped them arrange their sports equipment in a much better way. We hope they help you too. If you have some other hack or if you are creating any fun DIY equipment holder, do let us know. We would love to know more and make our blogs more informative.

Author’s Bio:

 Archie was a builder for more than 40 years. Mainly after his retirement the enthusiastic electrical works in garden and writes for a blog gym-expert.com to keep himself occupied. His many years of experience can get you the right tool reviews whether it is a drill, welding machine or so. An impressive fact to note about him is that almost everything in his house is a representation of his skills made by his hands.