I have a dedicated server (100mbps connection) I'm not using at the moment. I was thinking it could be used as game server for a game like Battlefield 2. My question is 1) how can I help keep my server populated (donate it to a gaming clan?), 2) what are some ways to get attention toward my upcoming game, and 3) has anyone tried this? What was your experience?

As far as players go, as long as the server has a consistently low ping and enough admins to take out the trash players should start frequenting it. I've got 5 or 6 servers I usually play CSS on. Most of them have rules against swearing etc which helps keep a lot of the most immature players out (They get kicked/banned in relatively short order). I found all of those servers by sorting the server list by ping order and going with the lowest that had a decent number of players. I stick with the ones that are able to take care of annoying/offensive players.

As for advertising. Most game servers allow you to customize a splash screen that players see while joining. You could list server rules here as well as link to your website. You should also be able to setup text messages in game to direct players to your website. Chances are, only regulars would bother going there so give them something to do there to keep them coming back. Create some player forums, list player stats on the website etc.

thanks your input is very helpful.