Alright, so you are holding a fantasy football draft and you want to make sure it’s a success. If you have been in a fantasy league before or are new to fantasy, the draft is one of the most enjoyable events of the fantasy season. In order to have a proper draft, there are a few things I highly recommend having to make it run smoothly.  If you are the commissioner then by doing these 3 things the draft will get off on the right foot.

Start With Food and Drinks

It sounds simple but it’s often overlooked. Whether you are holding it at your home,or  another league members make sure people have something to munch on. Drafts can take 3-4 hours and there is down time in between picks. Having food and drinks keeps the party going and adds to the enjoyment of the draft. You don’t have to make the food yourself, you can always order delivery like pizza, or have everyone bring a dish if they are willing. If you like making food then have at it. The other option is to hold it at a restaurant, bar, or a place that serves food. Lots of restaurants and bars will have specials during the month of August and September for fantasy draft parties. You don’t have to do the cooking and everyone can eat or drink what they want.

Have the Necessary Props

There are a few essential props needed at a fantasy draft. A fantasy football draft board is an absolute requirement. You can make one, buy one from multiple websites, or even project a board on your t.v., the wall, or if you have the technology, a projection screen. A draft board makes it easy for managers to see what players have been drafted and what each teams needs are. I also suggest having a breakdown of the league rules available and a few extra lists of players in case someone forgets theirs. Since there are thousands of different rule variations available it’s a good thing for managers to review before the draft starts just to refresh the scoring that will occur throughout the season. The player lists will make it so owners aren’t looking over each others shoulders throughout the draft.

Something To Play For

The pride of winning is always nice, but something of value is even better. I suggest a fantasy football trophy to be awarded to the winner. If managers have something of value to play for then competition becomes fierce. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a trophy you can always play for money as well. Cold hard cash will bring out the competitor in most managers too. Whatever it may be, the carrot dangling in front will make your league go from high school straight to the pros.

So do your fantasy football draft up right and make sure you have the necessary components for a successful draft party. These three things will ensure your fantasy football draft runs smoothly, and is a heck of a lot of fun.