[ladyfighter]

I will say this, "costs" were a big concern with me when we (souldrum & I) were starting the competition team. However, we have "sponsors" for students who can not afford the uniforms pluss the additional costs of competition. Also, you could try and get local businesses to sponsor your Competition Team, or have a car wash - bake sales- pizza sales, etc. There are Many ways that you could raise money for the costs of tournaments, equipments and such! Perhaps having "competition syle" fights in your regular martial arts class could help encourage your younger students to enter. (if they see themselves as winners or "standing a chance" they are more likely to enter) However, with all competitions your students do stand a chance of walking away with nothing at all Most open tournaments do not offer "spirit medals" for those who participate but do not place. Try encouraging your students by providing your own spirit medals for those who do not place at the tournament. (this will help motiviate them to continue to compete and parents feel that they didn't just waist their money)

Another way to motivate competition is to hold several "club tournaments" a year in your own school!! Charge say $15 and makesure everyone who competes gets something, and at the end of the year, offer a large trophy or plaque for those that competed all year as an additional incenative!!