28 Jun Franchisee of the Week: Robert Jackson
Robert Jackson, Amazing Athletes Potomac Coast, VA
Robert was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA and athletics have always played a pivotal role in his life. Throughout his formative years, he excelled in football, baseball, track, and basketball. After graduating high school, he decided joined the United States Navy where performed call of duty for ten years. Upon leaving the Navy, Robert pursued a career in the field of Information Technology. After a decade in corporate America, he finally decided to pursue his dreams of teaching athletics and coaching full time.
Robert enjoys coaching youth leagues of various sports which include basketball and football at local community centers. The Amazing Athletes program was a natural culmination of his athletic talent, fundamental knowledge, and desire to work with children. Sports and training for sports have always been motivating forces in the Jackson family. A testament to this is his 18-year-old son who, not unlike his father, shows talent and great promise in high school football and track.
His passion for sports combined with a natural affinity for instructing children makes the Amazing Athletes program the perfect platform to realize Roberts dream of teaching children through sports.
What does a typical day for a franchise owner look like?
A typical day usually starts with making sure my rosters are updated with adds or
drops. Making sure I have proper paperwork for the schools I’m coaching for that
day such as payment reminders and sign-up forms. If time permits In between
classes searching for new schools. Just continually trying to build the business and
keep what I have running as smooth as possible.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
It’s not a job to me. From day one this business has been life-changing, rewarding
and truly fulfilling. I love what I do. Absolutely love coaching, nurturing and being
able to be instrumental in helping kids develop self-confidence through sports.
Making the kids smile and laugh. Along with the hugs. The stories I hear when first
meeting parents always bring a smile to my face. Especially meeting parents for
the first time. Usually what I hear is “so you are the coach my kids constantly talk
about at the dinner table!” I know a positive impact was made.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
The hardest part is finding good help during the school year. Summer time not so much.
College kids are always eager to help and most just love kids. But, during the school
year finding quality coaches can be a challenge. Breaking through to potential new
schools can sometimes be a challenge. Some director’s don’t understand or choose not
to comprehend what Amazing Athlete’s has to offer kids. It’s not about how big I can
build this business it’s about the quality of the product. But, I do understand that it is
a business that can grow as big as I want it to be.
If you could go back to your first day on the job, what advice would you give
yourself?
I honestly don’t know. Maybe don’t quit your current job two weeks after visiting
the Amazing Athletes Corporate office. But then again you can’t have one foot in
the water and one on dry land. Jump in with both feet!
What is your favorite sport to teach?
Football. I coach high school football so I enjoy teaching that sport to the
munchkins.
What was your first job?
I was 15 and worked at the local community centers during the summer as a counselor.
What was your most unusual job?
While in the Navy I worked part time at Vet Stadium (no longer there) as security
during a football game. Odd to me.
What is the one thing you cannot resist?
Let’s say milk chocolate and peanut butter combined.
Actually food in general.
What is something you have always wanted to try?
Playing an instrument and singing. Can’t do either. But always wanted to try.
No Comments