Online payment processing can make or break your youth sports budget in today's digital age. While these systems offer convenience and ease of use, they also introduce hidden fees that can impact your organization's finances. Learn why it’s critical to understand why these fees matter and how they work when selecting new sports management software for your team.
1. Can Significantly Impact Registration Costs
Processing fees are unavoidable charges applied to online transactions, usually consisting of a percentage of the transaction amount plus a fixed fee.
For example, when Ben registers his son for hockey, he pays the registration fee along with an additional processing fee tied to the transaction. With SportsEngine, these fees are transparently structured as a combination of a percentage of the order and a flat transaction fee.
Understanding these fees is crucial—they play a key role in managing your overall platform expenses and keeping registration costs affordable for families. Choosing a comprehensive solution like SportsEngine ensures your organization has the tools to navigate these fees effectively while keeping budgets in check.
2. Transparency and Trust with Participants
Transparency is crucial when choosing a youth sports management platform. Is the company upfront about fees, or are you discovering hidden costs after signing up? Do they clearly explain their pricing so families understand exactly what they’re paying for?
Our team compared platforms and found that while some competitors advertise a low 2% processing fee upfront, families often face unexpected additional charges with each registration after the team has committed to the platform. Don’t let hidden fees catch your organization off guard—clarity matters!
Clear communication about processing fees fosters trust between your organization and its members. When administrators and families are informed about these fees upfront, they can make informed decisions and appreciate transparency.
LEARN MORE: Get a full competitive cost analysis by one of our representatives >
3. Financial Planning and Budgeting
If you are a youth sports administrator, you have more to worry about than added or hidden fees. Being aware of how the system you are using utilizes processing fees not only allows you to be transparent but also allows you to budget effectively.
Understanding the processing fees when you are setting up your annual or seasonal budgets allows you to set registration prices accordingly and allocate funds accurately. So when the team is asking about new equipment, you won’t have to worry about where the funds will come from because you aren’t paying any hidden or random fees.
Why Processing Fees and Provider Choice Matter
Understanding processing fees isn't just a financial detail—it’s a cornerstone of effectively managing your youth sports organization. These fees directly impact registration costs, participant trust, and your ability to plan budgets confidently. By choosing a provider like SportsEngine that prioritizes transparency and offers structured, predictable fees, you can avoid unwelcome surprises and hidden costs that strain your finances and relationships with families.
Not Ready to Switch?
If switching platforms isn’t an immediate option, consider taking steps to "bake in" processing fees into your current pricing structure. Transparent communication about these adjustments can foster trust with your members while maintaining financial stability. Alternatively, explore your fees with SportsEngine and schedule a call to learn how we can help streamline your operations.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you want a competitive cost analysis or to learn more about our tools and features, we’re here for you. Fill out the form below and one of our representatives will be in touch with you shortly!
About Kelsey Erwin-Formaneck
Kelsey Erwin-Formaneck is a marketer, writer, and podcast producer for SportsEngine, Inc. She currently works to provide solutions across various digital platforms to help increase youth sports participation, and share the love of sport. Kelsey grew up playing golf, softball, and dance in southeastern Minnesota. In her spare time, you can find her cheering on her favorite Minnesota Wild players, fulfilling her need for speed at a racetrack, or getting out for a trail run.
