Headcount Buddy

An SMS helper for amateur sports teams.

View project on GitHub

Your first text from the assistant

You didn’t download anything. You didn’t create an account. You just got a text from an unfamiliar number — and that’s totally normal. Here’s what’s going on and what you can expect.


Someone added you to a team

An organizer — your team captain, a friend who runs the Saturday pickup group, whoever keeps your crew organized — is using Headcount Buddy to handle RSVPs and event updates. When they add you to their roster, the assistant sends you a quick hello so you know who’s texting you.

It might look something like this:

Headcount Buddy: Hi! I’m the assistant helping Maya organize the Tuesday tennis group. I’ll text you when there’s a game coming up and you need to let us know if you’re in. No app to download — just reply here. 🎾

That’s it. You’re all set.


What the assistant will text you

The assistant reaches out on its own when something needs your attention or when something has changed. Here’s what that looks like in practice.

When there’s an upcoming game and you need to RSVP:

Headcount Buddy: Hey! Practice is this Thursday at 7 PM at Riverside Courts. Are you in?

Just reply naturally. “Yes,” “Yep, I’ll be there,” “Sorry, can’t make it” — it all works. You don’t need to reply in any special format.

When the time or location changes:

Headcount Buddy: Quick update — Thursday’s practice has moved to 8 PM (same courts). Still good for you?

The assistant will ask you to confirm again so the organizer has an accurate headcount.

When an event is called off:

Headcount Buddy: Heads up — Thursday’s practice has been cancelled. See you next week!

Nothing you need to do. Just good to know.


A few things worth knowing

  • You never need to install anything. The assistant lives entirely in text messages. Just reply to the number that texted you.
  • Plain English works fine. You don’t have to force yourself into a strict yes or no — just say what’s true for you.
  • The assistant is working on your organizer’s behalf. Think of it as a helpful team manager — warm, quick, and not pushy.

Questions or concerns?

If something seems off or you’d like to get your own team set up, reach out at help@headcountbuddy.com.