Hosting DCS Events

Great events don't happen by accident. This guide covers everything from weekly challenges to special tournaments, helping you run events that players want to attend again and again.

Event Types

Weekly Challenge

The core DCS experience—runs Monday through Saturday.

Structure:

• Players compete throughout the week
• Matches scheduled via app
• Rankings update in real-time
• Top 6 qualify for Elite Six

Organizer Role:

• Ensure venue availability
• Promote participation
• Handle questions and issues
• Maintain community engagement

Elite Six Showdown

Sunday's main event—top 6 players compete for the prize pool.

Structure:

• Bracket announced based on weekly rankings
• Elimination rounds on site
• Finals determine prize distribution
• All 6 players earn something

Organizer Role:

• Coordinate Sunday venue and timing
• Announce matchups and manage flow
• Verify results and handle disputes
• Celebrate winners and distribute prizes

Special Events

Beyond weekly competition:

• Seasonal tournaments: End-of-season special brackets
• Invitational events: Top performers from multiple weeks
• Community events: Casual play nights, beginner sessions
• Regional qualifiers: Multi-city competition

Event Planning

Venue Preparation

Before Each Event:

Setup Checklist:

• [ ] Tables arranged for games (4 players per table)
• [ ] Scoring area designated
• [ ] Domino sets distributed
• [ ] Signage visible
• [ ] App/technology ready
• [ ] Welcome area clear

Player Communication

What Players Need to Know:

• Date, time, location
• What to expect (format, rules, prizes)
• How to prepare (app downloaded, registered)
• What to bring (ID if needed, cash for food/drinks)
• How to get there (parking, transit)

Communication Timeline:

• Week before: Event announcement and details
• 3 days before: Reminder with logistics
• Day before: Final reminder and any updates
• Event day: Welcome message, last-minute info

Running Events

Check-In Process

Efficient check-in sets the tone:

1. Greet players warmly
2. Verify registration in app
3. Help with any technical issues
4. Explain format if new players present
5. Direct to tables/waiting area

For New Players:

• Personal welcome and introduction
• Quick app walkthrough
• Rules overview or buddy pairing
• Set expectations for first event

Match Management

During Active Play:

• Monitor timing: Keep matches moving appropriately
• Handle questions: Rules clarifications, app issues
• Maintain atmosphere: Quiet enough for focus, social enough for fun
• Track progress: Know where matches stand
• Announce updates: Bracket progress, upcoming matches

Common Issues and Solutions:

Elite Six Management

The Elite Six showdown requires extra attention:

Pre-Event:

• Verify qualified players
• Prepare bracket/matchup display
• Confirm all 6 will attend
• Prepare prize information

During Event:

• Announce matches clearly
• Manage spectator energy
• Keep matches visible to crowd
• Document results carefully

Post-Event:

• Announce final standings
• Celebrate all participants
• Process prize distribution
• Share results and highlights

Event Flow Templates

Standard Weekly Night (3 hours)

Elite Six Showdown (2-3 hours)

Special Tournament (4-6 hours)

Creating Great Atmosphere

The Right Energy

Balance competition with community:

• Serious during matches, social between games
• Celebrate great plays and close games
• Support newer players learning
• Recognize improvement, not just winning

Physical Environment

Small details matter:

• Good lighting at tables
• Comfortable temperature
• Reasonable noise levels
• Easy access to food/drinks
• Clean, welcoming space

Community Building

Foster connections:

• Introduce players to each other
• Share stories and highlights
• Create traditions and rituals
• Celebrate milestones together

Troubleshooting

Low Attendance

Diagnose:

• Survey players about barriers
• Check competing events
• Evaluate venue/timing fit
• Assess promotion effectiveness

Fix:

• Adjust schedule if needed
• Increase outreach
• Improve event experience
• Try new recruitment channels

Player Conflicts

Handle Immediately:

• Separate involved parties
• Get both perspectives privately
• Apply DCS code of conduct
• Document for future reference

Prevent:

• Set clear expectations upfront
• Model respectful behavior
• Address small issues early
• Build positive community culture

Technical Problems

Have Backups:

• Paper scoring sheets
• Offline brackets
• Phone numbers for DCS support
• Manual result entry procedures

Common Fixes:

• App refresh or reinstall
• Wi-Fi connection check
• Clear cache and retry
• Escalate to DCS support if needed

Venue Issues

Build Relationships:

• Regular communication with venue
• Appreciate venue staff
• Handle problems professionally
• Document agreements clearly

If Issues Persist:

• Address directly with management
• Demonstrate value (customer spending)
• Have backup venue options
• Consider venue change if necessary

Measuring Success

Key Metrics

Track Over Time:

Gathering Feedback

Ask Players:

• What did you enjoy most?
• What could be better?
• Would you recommend to friends?
• What would bring you back more often?

Observe:

• Energy levels during events
• Social interactions
• Timing and flow issues
• Common questions or complaints

Resources

Templates and Materials

DCS provides:

• Event announcement templates
• Bracket and scoring sheets
• Promotional materials
• Welcome packets for new players

Support Channels

• Organizer chat: Connect with other city organizers
• DCS support: Technical and operational help
• Resource library: Guides, templates, best practices

Next Steps

• Club Setup Guide — Complete launch guide
• Tournament System — Understanding competition structure
• Elite Six Explained — Weekly prize showdowns
• For Organizers Home — All organizer resources