Summer break on a school campus doesn’t mean things slow down, especially when student-athletes are preparing to return. As summer training programs, workouts, and camps ramp up, universities need to ensure their behind-the-scenes systems are just as ready as their athletes. From secure facilities to reliable communication tools, your AV and security infrastructure plays a critical role in the safety, success, and smooth operation of athletic programs.

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Here’s what to prioritize before student-athletes hit campus:

1. Assess Stadium and Facility Audio Systems

From football stadiums to indoor courts, clear and consistent sound is key. Audio systems used for practice, announcements, and emergency communication should be tested and serviced before summer workouts begin. Reliable audio is about daily functionality and game day, and now’s the time to tune it up.

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‍Checklist:

• Test speaker output and coverage across fields, stands, and locker rooms
• Check microphone cords, wireless packs, and Bluetooth connectivity
• Inspect amps, mixers, and portable sound equipment for wear and tear
• Confirm athletic staff can operate equipment 

2. Verify Surveillance and Access Control Systems

Summer schedules often involve athletes and staff arriving earlier or staying later than traditional campus hours. That means your campus security systems need to be dialed in, especially at gyms, weight rooms, training facilities, and dorm entrances. Proper access control and surveillance prevent unauthorized entry and ensure student-athletes can train safely—even when the rest of campus is quiet.

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‍Questions to ask:

• Are all card-access readers working?
• Are security cameras capturing and storing footage effectively?
• Have time-based permissions and entry logs been updated?
• Is your alarm system tested and ready?

3. Update Locker Room and Weight Room AV Equipment

Locker rooms, weight rooms, and training areas are often overlooked when it comes to AVS updates. But they’re used heavily by student-athletes in the summer, making them a smart place to invest in tech checks or upgrades. Even small improvements in these spaces can create a more focused and motivating environment for athletes.

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‍Don’t forget to:

• Clean and test speakers used for music or announcements
• Confirm tablet connections are active and reliable
• Label and organize cords and ports for easy use
• Budget for replacements or upgrades before fall sports

4. Consider Upgrading or Standardizing Equipment

If your AV or security systems vary widely across athletic facilities, consider using summer as a time to standardize or update technology. A consistent, easy-to-use setup saves time, reduces frustration, and ensures staff can operate equipment without extra training. Summer gives you a window of opportunity to make smart updates before fall begins.

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Consider:

• Bringing audio and control systems in line with campus standards
• Replacing outdated tech that’s becoming hard to support or repair
• Working with an AVS partner who can provide a full audit and recommendations

5. Plan for Emergencies Now—Not Later

When things go wrong mid-season, you scramble. Use the pre-season to prepare your systems and teams for the unexpected. Being proactive now can mean fewer headaches—and safer, smoother events—later.

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Checklist:

• Run through emergency AV protocols
• Confirm who’s responsible for issues and support
• Schedule routine checks to prevent breakdowns during peak use

Need Help Getting Ready?

At Blades AVS, we work with schools across Indiana to help prepare their athletic facilities for summer and beyond. Whether you need to test systems, install new equipment, or troubleshoot problems before they happen, our team is here to help you make sure everything is in peak condition, just like your athletes. Contact us today and get game-day ready before your athletes even step on the field.