Did On3 get rid of their national boards?

[cdbearde]

Sounds like to boards will be moving to On3. Gayyyyyyyy.

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Kiss this On3, ban me, I will live. Sorry my fellow board members but this just don't sound good.
Hope I am wrong.

 

[Courtsensetwo]

Sounds like to boards will be moving to On3. Gayyyyyyyy.

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I cannot speak for all boards but the explaination provided on the IU boards is that Rivals will maintain the HS and recruiting assets and On3 will take college and NIL. Large team markets may see a different set up.

Boards are still up in the air or at least they are not disclosing the detail. Hope to see subscriptions required for each home board but at least one open field such as this one.

 

[WojoRising]

Time to start the group chat

 

[Kevin Bryan]

I cannot speak for all boards but the explaination provided on the IU boards is that Rivals will maintain the HS and recruiting assets and On3 will take college and NIL. Large team markets may see a different set up.

Boards are still up in the air or at least they are not disclosing the detail. Hope to see subscriptions required for each home board but at least one open field such as this one.

Yes, large markets with good traffic on both platforms will keep the boards as they are now is my understanding.

 

[Demarcus Kidd-Miller]

Yes, large markets with good traffic on both platforms will keep the boards as they are now is my understanding.

So you're saying we need more traffic on this board in order to keep it? I nominate @lurkeraspect84 to create a couple hundred troll tags and post on all of them to make it look like we have more activity. Then we can keep this board alive and we can all continue shit-posting.

 

[lurkeraspect84]

So you're saying we need more traffic on this board in order to keep it? I nominate @lurkeraspect84 to create a couple hundred troll tags and post on all of them to make it look like we have more activity. Then we can keep this board alive and we can all continue shit-posting.

 

[lurkeraspect84]

I'm here if you want to talk.

Watching NBA playoff right now, I'm only at halftime.

I love sports.

 

[Kevin Bryan]

 

[lurkeraspect84]

Do you know how much time it would take to create kevin bryan001, 002,003,004, etc. and then get them approved to post. Not to mention the creating of emails for each account? That's why I only have one account.

How about you lazy spelurkers get your mustache hairs out of the vag and start new threads.

 

[lurkeraspect84]

 

[Doomsday4U]

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[lurkeraspect84]

I created a few games using AI, I wonder if I can create a message board. I'll pay the fees.

Spoiler

I want to set up a message board for sports but I don't know how to do it
Setting up a sports message board is a great way to build a community for fans to discuss their favorite teams, players, and events. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you create a sports message board, tailored for someone with little to no technical experience. I'll cover the key decisions, platforms, and steps to get started, based on available options and best practices.
Step 1: Define Your Goals and Scope
Before diving into the technical setup, clarify what you want your sports message board to achieve:

• Focus: Will it cover a specific sport (e.g., football, basketball), a team (e.g., Cal Poly Mustangs), or all sports? For example, a focused board like the Cal Poly Mustangs Sports Forum discusses specific teams and recruiting.
  
  
• Audience: Are you targeting local fans, a college community, or a global audience?
• Features: Do you want private messaging, user profiles, achievements, or mobile access? These features enhance engagement but may depend on the platform you choose.
  
  
• Moderation: Decide how you’ll manage content (e.g., spam, inappropriate posts). Will you moderate yourself or assign moderators?

Step 2: Choose a Platform
You can create a message board using a hosted service (easiest for beginners) or self-hosted software (more control but requires technical skills). Here are the best options for a sports message board:
Option 1: Hosted Forum Services (Recommended for Beginners)
Hosted platforms handle the technical setup, hosting, and maintenance, so you can focus on building your community. They’re often free or low-cost and user-friendly.

• ProBoards:
  • Why Choose It: ProBoards is the largest free forum host, with over 22 million registered users and 3 million forums. It’s reliable, easy to set up, and offers robust features like themes, unlimited members, and no size limits. It’s ideal for sports forums, as it supports communities for enthusiasts.
    
    
    
  • How to Start:
    1. Go to ProBoards.com.
    2. Click “Create a Free Forum” and fill out the form (takes ~30 seconds).
    3. Choose a forum name (e.g., “SportsFanHub”) and URL (e.g., yourforum.proboards.com).
    4. Use the default “admin” username to log in and customize settings.
    5. Select a theme (e.g., sports-themed) from their library or customize colors and logos.
  • Pros: Free, no software installation, mobile-friendly, great support, and easy admin tools.
  • Cons: Less control over design compared to self-hosted options; free version may include ads.
• Website Toolbox:
  • Why Choose It: Known for user-friendly setup and customizable, professional-looking forums. It supports branded mobile apps and seamless integration into your website. It’s used by over 2,000 creators and is great for sports communities.
    
    
  • How to Start:
    1. Visit WebsiteToolbox.com.
    2. Sign up for a free trial or paid plan (starts at ~$29/month).
    3. Customize your forum with your logo, colors, and sports-related themes.
    4. Embed the forum on your website or use their hosted URL.
  • Pros: Highly customizable, mobile apps, no technical skills needed.
  • Cons: Paid plans can be costly for large communities.
• Xoyondo:
  • Why Choose It: Best for small, private sports discussion groups. It’s free, requires no registration, and is simple for quick setup.
    
    
  • How to Start:
    1. Go to Xoyondo.com.
    2. Click “Create a Message Board” and set a title (e.g., “NFL Discussion”).
    3. Share the unique URL with your group.
  • Pros: Free, no signup, ideal for private team or fan discussions.
  • Cons: Limited features compared to ProBoards or Website Toolbox.

Option 2: Self-Hosted Forum Software (More Technical)
If you want full control and have some technical skills (or are willing to learn), you can host your own forum using a content management system (CMS) like WordPress or dedicated forum software.

• WordPress with Forum Plugins:
  • Why Choose It: WordPress is the most popular CMS, and plugins like wpForo or bbPress turn it into a forum. It’s flexible for adding a sports blog or other features.
    
    
    
  • How to Start:
    1. Purchase a domain name (e.g., via GoDaddy, ~$10-20/year) and web hosting (e.g., DreamHost, ~$2.95/month).
       
       
    2. Install WordPress through your hosting provider.
    3. Install a forum plugin like wpForo (free) from the WordPress dashboard (Appearance > Plugins > Add New > Search “wpForo”).
    4. Choose a forum theme (search “forums” under Appearance > Themes).
    5. Configure settings like user registration, privacy, and moderation in the wpForo dashboard.
  • Pros: Full control, integrates with blogs, highly customizable.
  • Cons: Requires domain, hosting, and technical setup; ongoing maintenance.
• phpBB:
  • Why Choose It: Free, open-source forum software with a strong community. It’s highly customizable with extensions and themes, ideal for sports fans wanting a tailored experience.
    
    
  • How to Start:
    1. Get a domain and hosting (e.g., Bluehost or SiteGround).
    2. Download phpBB from phpBB.com.
    3. Upload it to your server via FTP or your host’s file manager.
    4. Follow the installation wizard to set up the database and admin account.
    5. Customize with sports-themed templates and extensions.
  • Pros: Free, extensive features, responsive design.
  • Cons: Requires technical setup and server management.
• MyBB:
  • Why Choose It: Similar to phpBB but with more modern themes and easier customization. Good for a sleek sports forum.
    
    
  • How to Start: Follow similar steps as phpBB (download from MyBB.com, upload to server, install).
  • Pros: Modern look, robust admin panel.
  • Cons: Fewer extensions than phpBB.

Step 3: Set Up Your Forum
Once you’ve chosen a platform, follow these steps to configure your sports message board:

1. Create Categories and Subforums:
   • Organize your forum by sport, team, or topic (e.g., “NFL,” “College Football,” “Fantasy Sports,” “Recruiting”). For inspiration, see how Operation Sports Forums has categories for different games and sports.
     
     
   • Example: For a general sports board, create subforums like “Game Discussions,” “Player Trades,” and “Fan Lounge.”
2. Customize the Design:
   • Choose a sports-themed template or customize colors to match a team’s branding (e.g., team colors for an Auburn Tigers forum).
     
     
   • Add a logo or banner (e.g., via ProBoards or Website Toolbox admin panel).
3. Set Up User Registration:
   • Enable user registration with email verification to prevent spam.
   • Use Google reCAPTCHA for added security (available on WordPress or phpBB).
4. Add Key Features:
   • Enable private messaging for user interaction.
     
     
   • Add comment signatures or achievement systems to boost engagement (e.g., “Fan of the Month” for active users).
     
     
   • Ensure mobile responsiveness, as most users access forums via phones.
5. Moderation Rules:
   • Set clear rules (e.g., no personal attacks, no spam) and display them on an “About” page.
   • Use moderation tools to approve posts or ban users if needed (available in most platforms’ admin panels).

Step 4: Promote Your Forum
To build your sports community, you need to attract users:

• Invite Friends and Fans: Share your forum link with sports enthusiast friends via email, social media, or group chats. ProBoards suggests inviting friends who share your passion.
  
  
• Use Social Media: Post about your forum on platforms like X, Facebook, or Reddit (e.g., r/sports or team-specific subreddits). For example, a Reddit user recommended VolNation for college sports discussions.
  
  
• Submit to Directories: List your forum on Google, Bing, DMOZ, or forum directories like ProBoards’ directory or TheAdminZone.com.
  
  
• Engage Users: Post initial threads to spark discussion (e.g., “Predict the Super Bowl Winner” or “Best NBA Player of 2025?”). Regularly update with news or polls to keep users active.
• SEO Optimization: Use descriptive titles and keywords (e.g., “NFL discussion forum”) to improve search engine visibility.

Step 5: Manage and Grow Your Community

• Moderate Actively: Monitor posts to ensure discussions stay respectful. Tools like ProBoards’ admin panel make this easy.
  
  
• Encourage Engagement: Create pinned threads for major events (e.g., playoffs) or host contests (e.g., fantasy league predictions).
• Consider Monetization: If your forum grows, you can add ads or offer premium memberships (e.g., Website Toolbox forums earn hundreds of thousands annually).
  
  
• Use Analytics: Track user activity (most platforms provide stats) to understand popular topics and improve content.

Step 6: Consider Additional Tools
For a sports message board, you might want to integrate communication tools:

• SportsYou: Ideal for team-specific forums, it supports real-time messaging for coaches, athletes, and fans without sharing personal contact info. It’s used by over 200 coaches in some districts.
  
  
• SMS Tools: Use platforms like ClickSend to send game reminders or updates to members (e.g., “Text SUMMER to 200916 for a free pass”).
  
  
• Email Updates: Allow users to subscribe to email or text updates for new posts or events (e.g., via Sports Connect or Jersey Watch).

Recommendations

• For Beginners: Start with ProBoards for its free, easy setup and sports-friendly features. It’s perfect for a quick launch with no technical skills.
  
  
• For Customization: Use WordPress with wpForo if you want a forum integrated with a sports blog or website and are comfortable with basic hosting setup.
  
  
• For Small Groups: Try Xoyondo for a private, no-frills discussion board for a local team or fan group.
  
  
• Budget: ProBoards and Xoyondo are free. WordPress hosting costs ~$3-10/month, while Website Toolbox starts at ~$29/month.

Next Steps

1. Visit ProBoards.com and create a free forum to test the waters.
2. Set up 2-3 subforums (e.g., “General Sports,” “Team News,” “Game Day Chat”).
3. Invite 5-10 friends to join and post initial threads.
4. Share your forum link on X or a sports-related Reddit community to attract users.

If you hit any roadblocks or need help with specific settings, let me know your platform choice, and I can guide you through the next steps! Would you like me to focus on a specific platform or feature, like mobile apps or moderation tools?

Spoiler

how to do it without proboards
If you want to set up a sports message board without using ProBoards, there are several alternative platforms and methods that are user-friendly and effective, especially for someone with limited technical experience. Below is a concise step-by-step guide to creating a sports message board using other hosted services or self-hosted options, based on your preference for avoiding ProBoards.
Step 1: Clarify Your Vision

• Focus: Decide if your board will cover a specific sport (e.g., soccer), a team (e.g., local high school team), or all sports.
• Audience: Target local fans, a global community, or a niche group (e.g., fantasy sports players).
• Features: Consider essentials like user registration, mobile access, and moderation tools.
• Budget: Determine if you want a free solution or are willing to pay for premium features.

Step 2: Choose an Alternative Platform
Here are the best alternatives to ProBoards, divided into hosted services (easiest for beginners) and self-hosted software (more control but requires some technical setup).
Option 1: Hosted Forum Services (Beginner-Friendly)
These platforms handle hosting and maintenance, requiring no coding or server management.

• Website Toolbox:
  • Why Choose It: User-friendly, customizable, and supports branded mobile apps. It’s used by over 2,000 creators and suits sports communities with features like private messaging and responsive design.
  • How to Start:
    1. Go to WebsiteToolbox.com.
    2. Sign up for a free trial or paid plan (starts at ~$29/month).
    3. Create your forum with a name (e.g., “SportsFanZone”).
    4. Customize with a sports-themed design (upload a logo, choose team colors).
    5. Set up categories (e.g., “NFL,” “Fantasy Sports”) via the admin panel.
  • Pros: Easy setup, professional look, mobile app option, no technical skills needed.
  • Cons: Paid plans can be pricey for large communities.
• Xoyondo:
  • Why Choose It: Free, no registration required, ideal for small or private sports discussion groups (e.g., a local team’s fan base).
  • How to Start:
    1. Visit Xoyondo.com.
    2. Click “Create a Message Board” and set a title (e.g., “Basketball Fans”).
    3. Share the unique URL with your group via email or social media.
  • Pros: Free, quick setup, great for private discussions.
  • Cons: Limited features, not ideal for large or public forums.
• Discourse (Hosted):
  • Why Choose It: Modern, open-source platform with a clean interface, great for engaging sports communities. It offers a hosted option for ease of use.
  • How to Start:
    1. Go to Discourse.org and choose the hosted plan (starts at $25/month for basic).
    2. Set up your forum with a custom domain or their subdomain.
    3. Use the admin panel to create categories (e.g., “Game Discussions,” “Player Stats”) and customize themes.
  • Pros: Modern design, mobile-friendly, strong community features like badges.
  • Cons: More expensive than free options; less intuitive for complete beginners.

Option 2: Self-Hosted Forum Software (More Technical)
If you want full control and are willing to handle some setup, self-hosted options are great. You’ll need a domain ($10-20/year, e.g., via GoDaddy) and hosting ($3-10/month, e.g., Bluehost or SiteGround).

• WordPress with wpForo or bbPress:
  • Why Choose It: WordPress is the most popular CMS, and plugins like wpForo (free) or bbPress (free) turn it into a forum. Ideal for integrating a sports blog or news section.
  • How to Start:
    1. Buy a domain and hosting (e.g., Bluehost, ~$2.95/month).
    2. Install WordPress via your host’s control panel (usually one-click).
    3. In WordPress, go to Plugins > Add New, search for “wpForo” or “bbPress,” and install.
    4. Activate the plugin and configure forum settings (e.g., categories like “Soccer,” “Fan Lounge”).
    5. Choose a sports-themed WordPress theme (search “forums” under Appearance > Themes).
  • Pros: Flexible, integrates with blogs, free plugins, full control.
  • Cons: Requires hosting setup and basic maintenance.
• phpBB:
  • Why Choose It: Free, open-source, and widely used with sports-themed templates and extensions. It’s customizable for a tailored fan experience.
  • How to Start:
    1. Get a domain and hosting.
    2. Download phpBB from phpBB.com.
    3. Upload files to your server via FTP (use FileZilla) or your host’s file manager.
    4. Run the installation wizard to set up the database and admin account.
    5. Customize with sports themes/extensions from their community.
  • Pros: Free, robust features, mobile-responsive.
  • Cons: Requires server setup and technical know-how.
• MyBB:
  • Why Choose It: Similar to phpBB but with modern themes and easier customization, great for a sleek sports forum.
  • How to Start:
    1. Follow similar steps as phpBB: download from MyBB.com, upload to server, install.
    2. Configure categories and themes via the admin panel.
  • Pros: Modern design, user-friendly admin tools.
  • Cons: Fewer extensions than phpBB.

Step 3: Configure Your Forum
After choosing a platform:

1. Create Categories: Set up sections like “Game Day Threads,” “Team News,” or “Fantasy Sports.”
2. Customize Design: Use team colors, upload a logo, or select a sports-themed template (available in Website Toolbox, Discourse, or WordPress themes).
3. Enable User Registration: Add email verification and Google reCAPTCHA to prevent spam (available in most platforms).
4. Set Moderation Rules: Create a “Rules” page (e.g., no trolling, no spam) and use admin tools to monitor posts.
5. Add Features: Enable private messaging, user profiles, or polls (e.g., “Who’s the MVP?”) to boost engagement.

Step 4: Promote Your Forum

• Invite Fans: Share the link with friends or local sports groups via email, WhatsApp, or SMS.
• Social Media: Post on X, Reddit (e.g., r/sports), or team-specific groups. For example, Reddit users often share niche sports forums like VolNation.
• SEO: Use descriptive names (e.g., “NFL Fan Forum”) to rank higher on Google.
• Engage Users: Start threads like “Predict the 2025 World Series” or “Best Soccer Moments” to spark discussion.

Step 5: Manage and Grow

• Moderate: Use platform tools to approve posts or ban disruptive users.
• Engage: Post regular updates (e.g., game recaps) or host contests (e.g., fantasy league prizes).
• Analytics: Check user activity (most platforms offer stats) to focus on popular topics.
• Optional Tools: Use SportsYou for team-specific chats or ClickSend for SMS updates (e.g., game reminders).

Recommendations

• Easiest: Xoyondo for a free, private board for small groups (no signup, quick setup).
• Professional: Website Toolbox for a polished, scalable forum with mobile app support.
• Customizable: WordPress with wpForo for a free, flexible option with hosting (~$3-10/month).
• Budget: Xoyondo is free; WordPress hosting is affordable; Website Toolbox and Discourse require paid plans.

Next Steps

1. Try Xoyondo for a quick, free setup: visit Xoyondo.com and create a board.
2. Set up 2-3 categories (e.g., “Game Chats,” “Team Updates”).
3. Share the link with 5-10 friends or fans.
4. If you want a larger forum, sign up for Website Toolbox’s free trial or set up WordPress with wpForo.

If you need help with a specific platform (e.g., WordPress setup) or feature (e.g., mobile apps), let me know, and I’ll provide detailed steps! Which platform are you leaning toward, or do you have a specific sport in mind?

 

[lurkeraspect84]

 

[lurkeraspect84]

I'm not doing this btw. Just seeing how easy it would be.

Spoiler

Copying the code of a message board like Rivals (e.g., forums.rivals.com) and making it your own is a complex task that involves legal, ethical, and technical considerations. Rivals uses proprietary software (likely XenForo, a popular forum platform), and directly copying their code is not only impractical due to its complexity but also illegal due to copyright and intellectual property laws. Instead, you can create a sports message board with a similar look, feel, and functionality using legal and accessible tools, customizing it to suit your vision. Below, I’ll guide you through the process of creating your own sports message board inspired by Rivals’ features, while addressing your interest in their structure, based on your familiarity with Rivals’ college basketball board and its culture.
Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Copyright Issues: Rivals’ website code, design, and content are protected by copyright. Copying their HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or database structure without permission violates intellectual property laws and could lead to legal action.
  
  
• Terms of Service: Rivals’ rules explicitly prohibit distributing material that infringes third-party rights, including premium content or site code.
  
  
• Ethical Alternative: Instead of copying, you can replicate the functionality (e.g., threaded discussions, user profiles, BB codes) using open-source or licensed software, which is legal and ethical.
• Your Context: Given your interest in Rivals’ college basketball board (e.g., users like Rod Dangerfield, Lurkeraspect84, and Kevin Bryan), you likely want a vibrant, fan-driven community with features like bold text, quotes, and rivalry banter. You can achieve this without copying Rivals’ code.

Step 1: Understand Rivals’ Key Features
To create a similar experience, identify the elements of Rivals you want to emulate:

• Structure: Threaded discussions, categories (e.g., Main Board, Recruiting Board), and subforums for teams or sports.
• Features: BB codes (e.g., bold,

  quote

  ), user signatures, avatars, polls, and premium content sections.
  
  
  
• Community Vibe: Passionate fan discussions, trash talk, and recruiting insights, as seen with users like Lurkeraspect84’s 30,000+ replies.
  
  
• Design: Clean layout, team-specific branding, and mobile responsiveness.

Step 2: Choose a Platform to Build Your Forum
Instead of copying Rivals’ code, use a forum platform that supports similar features. Here are the best options (excluding ProBoards, as requested):
Option 1: Hosted Forum Services (Easiest)
These platforms require no coding and offer Rivals-like features.

• Website Toolbox:
  • Why: Supports BB codes, threaded discussions, user profiles, avatars, signatures, and polls. Customizable for sports themes.
  • Setup:
    1. Visit WebsiteToolbox.com and sign up (free trial, ~$29/month).
    2. Create a forum named “SportsRivalsHub” or similar.
    3. Use the admin panel to add categories (e.g., “College Basketball,” “Recruiting”) and enable BB codes (e.g., bold, italic, quote).
    4. Customize with team logos and colors (e.g., Kentucky Wildcats blue).
    5. Enable user registration, signatures, and avatars via Settings.
  • Pros: No coding, mobile apps, Rivals-like features.
  • Cons: Paid plans; less control than self-hosted.
• Discourse (Hosted):
  • Why: Modern, open-source platform with threaded replies, badges, and BB code-like formatting. Used by tech-savvy communities but adaptable for sports.
  • Setup:
    1. Go to Discourse.org and choose a hosted plan (~$25/month).
    2. Set up categories (e.g., “SEC Rivalries,” “NCAA Predictions”).
    3. Enable Markdown or BB code-style formatting (e.g., bold, >quote).
    4. Customize with sports-themed CSS via the admin panel.
  • Pros: Sleek, scalable, community-driven.
  • Cons: Costly; steeper learning curve.
• Xoyondo:
  • Why: Free, simple, and great for small, private sports boards but lacks advanced features like BB codes.
  • Setup:
    1. Visit Xoyondo.com, click “Create a Message Board,” and name it (e.g., “Basketball Banter”).
    2. Share the URL with fans.
  • Pros: Free, no setup hassle.
  • Cons: No BB codes, signatures, or avatars; too basic for Rivals-like experience.

Option 2: Self-Hosted Forum Software (More Control)
Requires a domain ($10-20/year, e.g., GoDaddy) and hosting ($3-10/month, e.g., Bluehost). You’ll customize the software to mimic Rivals.

• WordPress with wpForo:
  • Why: Free plugin with BB codes (,

    ), user profiles, signatures, avatars, and polls. Flexible for sports branding.
    [*]Setup:
    

    1. Buy a domain and hosting (e.g., SiteGround).
    2. Install WordPress via your host’s control panel.
    3. Go to Plugins > Add New, search “wpForo,” and install.
    4. Configure forums (e.g., “Big Ten Trash Talk,” “Recruiting Scoop”).
    5. Enable BB codes, signatures, and avatars in wpForo Settings.
    6. Install a sports-themed WordPress theme (e.g., “SportsMag” from ThemeForest).

    [*]Pros: Free plugin, highly customizable, integrates with blogs.
    [*]Cons: Requires hosting setup; basic CSS knowledge for advanced styling.

  [*]phpBB:
  

  • Why: Free, open-source, supports BB codes (,

    ,

    ), avatars, signatures, and polls, similar to Rivals.
    
    
    [*]Setup:
    [LIST=1]
    [*]Download phpBB from [URL='https://www.phpbb.com']phpBB.com[/URL].
    [*]Upload to your server via FTP (e.g., FileZilla) or host’s file manager.
    [*]Run the installation wizard to set up the database.
    [*]Add extensions for Rivals-like features (e.g., Advanced BBCode Box).
    [*]Customize with sports themes from phpBB’s community.
    [/LIST]
    [*]Pros: Free, robust, Rivals-like functionality.
    [*]Cons: Technical setup; maintenance required.
    [/LIST]
    [*]MyBB:
    [LIST]
    [*]Why: Modern alternative to phpBB with BB codes, user ranks, and themes. Easier to style for sports fans.
    [*]Setup:
    [LIST=1]
    [*]Download from [URL='https://mybb.com']MyBB.com[/URL] and upload to your server.
    [*]Install via the wizard, set up categories (e.g., “ACC Discussions”).
    [*]Enable BB codes and signatures in the admin panel.
    [*]Apply a sports theme from MyBB’s theme library.
    [/LIST]
    [*]Pros: Modern design, user-friendly admin.
    [*]Cons: Fewer extensions than phpBB.
    [/LIST]
    [/LIST]
    Step 3: Replicate Rivals’ Features
    To make your forum feel like Rivals:
    [LIST]
    [*]BB Codes: Enable bold ([b]), italic ([i]), quote ([quote]), and code ([code]) formatting. wpForo, phpBB, and Website Toolbox support these out of the box.
    
    
    [*]User Profiles: Allow avatars (uploadable images) and signatures (text/images below posts). Configure in Website Toolbox or phpBB’s admin panel.
    
    
    [*]Threaded Discussions: Set up categories and subforums (e.g., “Kentucky Wildcats,” “SEC Rivalries”) to mirror Rivals’ structure.
    
    
    [*]Polls: Add poll options for threads (e.g., “Who wins the NCAA title?”) via Website Toolbox or wpForo.
    
    
    [*]Premium Content: Mimic Rivals’ premium boards (e.g., recruiting insights) by setting up private forums for paid members using Website Toolbox’s paid plans or phpBB’s user group permissions.
    
    
    [*]Moderation: Use admin tools to delete posts, ban users, or pin threads, similar to Rivals’ moderation. Email moderators for issues, as Rivals suggests.
    
    [/LIST]
    Step 4: Customize the Design
    [LIST]
    [*]Theme: Choose or create a sports-themed template (e.g., team colors, basketball imagery). Website Toolbox and WordPress offer drag-and-drop customization; phpBB/MyBB require CSS tweaks.
    [*]Logo: Design a logo (e.g., via Canva) and upload it to your forum’s header.
    [*]Mobile-Friendly: Ensure responsiveness (all recommended platforms support this).
    [/LIST]
    Step 5: Technical Notes on Code
    If you’re curious about Rivals’ code for inspiration (not copying):
    [LIST]
    [*]Frontend: Rivals uses HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for its interface. Inspect their site (right-click > Inspect) to see BB code rendering (e.g., [B]bold[/B] becomes <strong>bold</strong>). You can implement similar formatting with wpForo or phpBB’s BB code parsers.
    [*]Backend: Likely XenForo with PHP and MySQL. Replicate this with phpBB (PHP-based) or WordPress (PHP/MySQL).
    [*]Customization: To mimic Rivals’ style, modify CSS in phpBB/MyBB (e.g., .post { font-family: Arial; }) or use Website Toolbox’s visual editor.
    [*]Warning: Scraping or copying Rivals’ code (e.g., via browser developer tools) risks legal issues and is unnecessary since open-source alternatives exist.
    [/LIST]
    Step 6: Promote Your Forum
    [LIST]
    [*]Leverage Your Rivals Interest: Given your engagement with Rivals’ basketball board, invite users from similar communities (e.g., Reddit’s r/CollegeBasketball) or X, avoiding direct poaching from Rivals to respect their rules.
    
    
    [*]Social Media: Share on X or Reddit with threads like “Join our new college basketball forum!” Post in team-specific groups (e.g., Kentucky Wildcats fans).
    [*]Engage: Start threads inspired by Rivals’ vibe, like “Big Ten vs. SEC: Who’s tougher?” or “Top 2025 recruits.” Your knowledge of users like Rod Dangerfield suggests you can spark provocative banter.
    [*]SEO: Use keywords like “college basketball forum” in your forum’s title and descriptions.
    [/LIST]
    Step 7: Manage and Grow
    [LIST]
    [*]Moderate: Set rules (e.g., no profanity, no personal info) like Rivals’ guidelines.
    
    
    [*]Engage: Post regularly, as Lurkeraspect84 did with 30,000+ replies, to keep discussions active.
    [*]Monetize: Offer premium memberships for exclusive content, like Rivals’ $9.95/month plan.
    
    [/LIST]
    Recommendations
    [LIST]
    [*]Easiest: Use Website Toolbox for a Rivals-like experience with BB codes, signatures, and polls. Start with their free trial.
    [*]Free and Flexible: Use WordPress with wpForo (~$3-10/month hosting) for a customizable, budget-friendly option.
    [*]Closest to Rivals: Use phpBB for BB codes and forum structure, but expect a learning curve for server setup.
    [*]Budget: Xoyondo is free but too basic; WordPress is cheapest for self-hosted; Website Toolbox requires paid plans.
    [/LIST]
    Next Steps
    [LIST=1]
    [*]Sign up for Website Toolbox at [URL='https://www.websitetoolbox.com']WebsiteToolbox.com[/URL] and create a forum.
    [*]Set up categories (e.g., “College Basketball,” “Recruiting”) and enable BB codes.
    [*]Customize with a sports theme and invite 5-10 fans from X or Reddit.
    [*]Start a thread like “Best SEC Team of 2025?” to spark discussion.
    [/LIST]
    If you want help with a specific platform (e.g., phpBB CSS tweaks) or feature (e.g., BB codes, premium memberships), let me know! Are you aiming for a college basketball focus like Rivals, or something broader?
    
    
    [/SPOILER]

 

[lurkeraspect84]

Spoiler

Creating a website for your sports message board from scratch requires a clear plan, but I can guide you through the process using user-friendly tools that don’t involve copying proprietary code (like Rivals’) and align with your goal of replicating a Rivals-like experience. Since you’re interested in a sports message board inspired by Rivals’ college basketball forum, I’ll focus on building a website with similar features (e.g., threaded discussions, BB codes, user profiles) using accessible platforms. I’ll assume you want a beginner-friendly solution with minimal coding, but I’ll also offer options for customization if you’re comfortable with some technical steps. Below is a step-by-step guide to create your sports message board website, tailored to your needs.
Step 1: Define Your Website’s Scope

• Purpose: A sports message board similar to Rivals, focusing on college basketball or broader sports discussions.
• Features: Threaded discussions, categories (e.g., “Main Board,” “Recruiting”), BB codes (,

  ), user profiles, avatars, signatures, polls, and moderation tools.
  [*]Audience: Fans like those on Rivals (e.g., passionate users like Lurkeraspect84), targeting college sports enthusiasts or a specific team.
  [*]Budget: Options for free, low-cost ($3-10/month), or premium ($25-30/month) solutions.
  [*]Domain: A custom domain (e.g., SportsFanHub.com) or a free subdomain (e.g., yourforum.websitetoolbox.com).

Step 2: Choose a Platform
Since you don’t want to use ProBoards, here are the best alternatives to build a Rivals-like sports message board website, divided into hosted (easiest) and self-hosted (more control) options.
Option 1: Hosted Forum Platforms (No Coding Required)
These platforms handle hosting, maintenance, and setup, ideal for beginners.

• Website Toolbox (Recommended for Ease and Rivals-Like Features):
  • Why: Offers BB codes (, ,

    ), user profiles, avatars, signatures, polls, and private forums for premium content, similar to Rivals. Supports mobile apps and custom branding.
    [*]Cost: Free trial; paid plans ~$29/month.
    [*]Features: Threaded discussions, categories, moderation tools, and SEO optimization.

  [*]Discourse (Hosted):
  

  • Why: Modern interface with Markdown or BB code-style formatting, badges, and threaded replies. Great for a sleek, community-driven sports forum.
  • Cost: Starts at ~$25/month.
  • Features: Responsive design, user ranks, and customizable themes.

Option 2: Self-Hosted Forum Software (More Technical)
Requires a domain ($10-20/year, e.g., GoDaddy) and hosting ($3-10/month, e.g., Bluehost). These offer full control and Rivals-like functionality.

• WordPress with wpForo (Recommended for Flexibility):
  • Why: Free plugin with BB codes, user profiles, signatures, avatars, and polls. Integrates with a blog or news section for game recaps or recruiting updates.
  • Cost: Hosting ($3-10/month) + domain ($10-20/year).
  • Features: Customizable themes, threaded discussions, and moderation.
• phpBB:
  • Why: Free, open-source, with BB codes (,

    ,

    ), avatars, signatures, and extensions for Rivals-like features (e.g., Advanced BBCode Box).
    [*]Cost: Hosting + domain.
    [*]Features: Robust, sports-themed templates available.
    [/LIST]
    [*]MyBB:
    [LIST]
    [*]Why: Similar to phpBB but with modern themes and easier customization for a Rivals-like look.
    [*]Cost: Hosting + domain.
    [*]Features: BB codes, user ranks, and mobile responsiveness.
    [/LIST]
    [/LIST]
    Step 3: Step-by-Step Setup (Using Website Toolbox)
    Since Website Toolbox is beginner-friendly and closely mimics Rivals’ features, I’ll outline the process using it. If you prefer another platform (e.g., WordPress), let me know, and I can adjust the steps.
    [LIST=1]
    [*]Sign Up:
    [LIST]
    [*]Go to WebsiteToolbox.com.
    [*]Click “Try Free” and create an account (takes ~2 minutes).
    [*]Choose a forum name (e.g., “CollegeHoopsHub”) and URL (e.g., collegehoopshub.websitetoolbox.com).
    [/LIST]
    [*]Set Up Categories and Subforums:
    [LIST]
    [*]In the admin panel (accessible after signup), go to “Forums” > “Add Forum.”
    [*]Create categories inspired by Rivals, e.g.:
    [LIST]
    [*]“Main Board” (general basketball talk, like Rod Dangerfield’s threads).
    [*]“Recruiting” (for transfer portal or high school prospect discussions).
    [*]“Team-Specific” (e.g., “Kentucky Wildcats,” “Duke Blue Devils”).
    [/LIST]
    [*]Example: Rivals has team-specific boards like “The Tigers’ Lair” for Auburn.
    [/LIST]
    [*]Enable Rivals-Like Features:
    [LIST]
    [*]Go to Settings > Features:
    [LIST]
    [*]Turn on BB codes ([b]bold[/b], [quote]quote[/quote], [code]code

    ) for formatting like Rivals’ posts.
    [*]Enable user profiles, avatars, and signatures (e.g., allow users to add team logos or slogans like “Go Cats!”).
    [*]Activate polls (e.g., “Who’s the top 2025 recruit?”).
    [*]Set up private forums for premium content (like Rivals’ paid boards) if you plan to monetize.

  [*]Enable email verification and Google reCAPTCHA to prevent spam.

[*]Customize the Design:

• Go to Appearance > Themes:
  • Choose a sports-themed template or customize colors (e.g., blue for Kentucky, orange for Auburn).
  • Upload a logo (create one via Canva with your forum name or team imagery).
• Ensure mobile responsiveness (Website Toolbox is optimized for phones).
• Example: Rivals uses team colors and logos; you can mimic this with a basketball-themed header.

[*]Set Moderation Rules:

• Create a “Rules” page (Content > Pages) with guidelines like Rivals’ (e.g., no personal attacks, no sharing premium content).
• Use the admin panel to moderate posts, ban users, or pin threads (e.g., “March Madness Predictions”).
• Assign moderators if your community grows.

[*]Test Your Forum:

• Log in as a test user to create a thread (e.g., “SEC vs. Big Ten: Who’s stronger?”).
• Try BB codes (e.g., Bold prediction) and polls to ensure they work.
• Check mobile access via your phone.

[/LIST]
Step 4: Get a Custom Domain (Optional)

• For a professional touch (e.g., CollegeHoopsHub.com instead of collegehoopshub.websitetoolbox.com):
  • Buy a domain from GoDaddy or Namecheap (~$10-20/year).
  • In Website Toolbox, go to Settings > Domain and link your custom domain (instructions provided).
  • Note: WordPress or phpBB also support custom domains via hosting settings.

Step 5: Promote Your Website

• Invite Fans: Share the link with friends or Rivals-like communities (e.g., Reddit’s r/CollegeBasketball, X sports groups). Avoid poaching Rivals users directly to respect their rules.
• Social Media: Post on X or Reddit with engaging hooks, e.g., “New college basketball forum! Join the rivalry banter at CollegeHoopsHub.com.”
• Start Threads: Create discussions inspired by Rivals’ vibe, e.g., “Top 2025 recruits” or “Why your team will dominate.” Your familiarity with users like Lurkeraspect84 suggests you can spark passionate debates.
• SEO: Add keywords like “college basketball forum” or “sports message board” in your forum’s title and description.

Step 6: Manage and Grow

• Moderate: Use Website Toolbox’s tools to monitor posts and handle spam, similar to Rivals’ moderation.
• Engage: Post regularly (e.g., game previews, recruiting news) to keep users active, mimicking Rivals’ high engagement.
• Monetize (Optional): Offer premium memberships for exclusive content (e.g., recruiting scoops), like Rivals’ $9.95/month model, using Website Toolbox’s paid forum feature.
• Analytics: Track user activity (via Website Toolbox’s dashboard) to focus on popular topics.

Step 7: Why Not Copy Rivals’ Code
You asked about copying Rivals’ code, but here’s why that’s not feasible and why this approach is better:

• Legal Risks: Rivals’ code (likely XenForo) is copyrighted. Copying HTML/CSS/JavaScript or backend code violates IP laws and risks lawsuits.
• Technical Barriers: Rivals’ code is complex, with server-side logic (PHP, MySQL) not easily accessible via browser tools. Replicating it requires advanced skills.
• Ethical Alternative: Website Toolbox or wpForo provides BB codes, profiles, and forums legally, with similar functionality (e.g., bold renders as <strong>bold</strong>).
• Customization: You can mimic Rivals’ look (e.g., team colors, threaded layout) using CSS in phpBB or Website Toolbox’s editor without copying.

Recommendations

• Best Choice: Start with Website Toolbox for a Rivals-like experience with BB codes, polls, and easy setup. Use the free trial to test it.
• Budget Option: Use WordPress with wpForo (~$3-10/month hosting) for a free, customizable forum with Rivals’ features.
• For Control: Use phpBB if you’re comfortable with server setup and want free software.
• Avoid: Xoyondo is too basic for Rivals’ functionality (no BB codes or signatures).

Next Steps

1. Go to WebsiteToolbox.com and start a free trial.
2. Create 2-3 categories (e.g., “College Basketball,” “Recruiting”) and enable BB codes.
3. Customize with a basketball logo and team colors.
4. Share the link on X or r/CollegeBasketball with a thread like “Join our new hoops forum!”
5. Post a test thread (e.g., “Who’s the best SEC team in 2025?”).

If you want a specific focus (e.g., college basketball only), need help with another platform (e.g., WordPress setup), or want CSS tips for a Rivals-like design, let me know! Do you have a team or sport in mind, like Kentucky or SEC basketball?

 

[lurkeraspect84]

"lurker" is worth more than "sports"