When you think of athletes who own franchises, the first images that might come to mind are intense training sessions, high-stakes games, and the thrill of victory.
However, beyond the field, court, or track, many athletes have found success in a different arena: the franchise industry. Their unique skill set, honed through years of competition, makes them exceptionally well-suited for this business venture within the franchise industry.
In the world of franchising, success is often determined by a combination of skills and traits that athletes naturally possess. From discipline to leadership, these qualities give a professional athlete a distinct advantage as a franchise owner.
Let’s explore why professional athletes excel in this role, with some real-life examples to illustrate these points.
The Winning Formula
The same qualities that drive athletes to victory on the field also propel them to success in business. The strategic business model of franchises appeals to athletes, offering a structured and proven path to success.
Their ability to stay focused, strategize, and lead makes them particularly adept at running franchises. Here’s a closer look at why athletes who own franchises are winning in business.
Discipline and Work Ethics of Professional Athletes
Discipline is a cornerstone of an athlete’s life. From early morning workouts to strict dietary regimens, athletes are no strangers to hard work and routine. Athletes often collaborate with business partners to ensure the success of their franchises.
This discipline easily translates into the world of business.
Professional athletes who are business owners understand the consistent effort required to maintain standards, manage operations, and ensure customer satisfaction.
Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal
Known for his dominance on the basketball court, Shaquille O’Neal has also made a name for himself in the franchise world, owning numerous franchises, including Five Guys and Auntie Anne’s.
His discipline and work ethic have been crucial in managing these ventures successfully.
Teamwork and Leadership
Athletes thrive in team settings, where collaboration and communication are key to success. These skills are invaluable in franchise ownership, where leading a team effectively can make or break the business. Professional athletes understand how to: build a cohesive unit, delegate responsibilities, and inspire their employees to perform at their best.
Drew Brees, the former NFL quarterback
He is an excellent example of how leadership on the field can translate to business success. Brees co-owns multiple Jimmy John’s franchises and has invested in several other business ventures.
His strategic collaboration with a key business partner has further amplified his ability to lead and manage teams, making him highly successful in his transition to franchise ownership.
Resilience and Mental Toughness
The path of an athlete is filled with challenges, from injuries to tough losses. This experience fosters resilience and mental toughness, crucial traits for any business owner. Athletes who own franchises excel at navigating the complexities of business ownership, drawing on their ability to persevere through difficult times.
Marques Colston, a former professional football player and part owner of Main Squeeze Juice Co., exemplifies this resilience.
He moved from football to business, showing his determination to succeed. He uses the same mental strength that helped him in sports for his work in the franchise industry.
Venus Williams, the tennis legend
Venus has applied her resilience to the business world. She owns several Jamba Juice franchises and has faced the challenges of business with the same determination that has made her a tennis champion.
Some athletes invest in a minority stake in professional sports teams as part of their business ventures. Her ability to bounce back from setbacks has been a key element in her success as a franchise owner.
Brand Recognition and Influence of Sporting Kansas City
Many athletes have built strong personal brands, which can be a significant asset in the franchise world. Their name recognition and influence can attract customers and give their franchises a competitive edge.
Patrick Mahomes, for example, has invested in multiple major sports franchises in Kansas City, including the Kansas City Royals, highlighting his diverse investments in the local sports community.
This built-in marketing power is something few other business owners can leverage.
Magic Johnson, one of the most recognizable names in sports
Athletes are transforming their fame and resources into thriving business ventures using diverse franchise models. Shaquille O’Neal leads the way with ownership in Five Guys, Auntie Anne’s, Papa John’s, Krispy Kreme, 24 Hour Fitness, and Burger King.
Magic Johnson focuses on investments that uplift underserved urban communities, while Fenway Sports Group extends its influence by acquiring stakes in sports teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins and partnering with LeBron James.
Athletes like Serena Williams and Kevin Durant also invest in Angel City FC, showcasing the growing trend of supporting women’s soccer. These strategic moves underscore the power of franchise models in building business success across North America.
Financial Resources
Athletes who own franchises often have the financial resources to invest in high-quality businesses, allowing them to choose the best opportunities and weather any financial challenges that may arise.
Jamal Mashburn, known for his scoring prowess and nicknamed “The Monster Mash,” has made a remarkable transition from basketball to business. Mashburn owns dozens of franchise locations across multiple brands, showcasing his acumen and leveraging his financial stability to build a diversified portfolio.
Adrian Gonzalez, who played for the Boston Red Sox
He has successfully transitioned to franchise ownership, showcasing a blend of athletic determination and entrepreneurial spirit. This financial stability gives them a significant advantage in the competitive world of franchising.
Strategic Mindset
Sports require strategic thinking and quick decision-making—skills that are also vital in the business world. Athletes are accustomed to analyzing their opponents, developing game plans, and adjusting strategies on the fly.
Richard Sherman, known for his sharp intellect on and off the field, exemplifies this mindset. His ability to read plays and adapt during games mirrors the strategic approach he’s brought to his business ventures, including investments in technology startups and real estate.
These abilities are directly transferable to running a franchise, where market conditions can change rapidly, requiring swift and effective responses.
Michael Jordan is one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
MJ has applied his strategic mindset to the business world, becoming a successful owner of several businesses, including a significant stake in the Charlotte Hornets and multiple restaurant franchises.
His strategic thinking on the court has clearly paid dividends in his business ventures. Similarly, Fenway Sports Group’s acquisitions, like the Pittsburgh Penguins, illustrate strategic investments in sports franchises.
Networking and Connections
Throughout their careers, athletes build extensive networks of contacts, including other athletes, celebrities, and business leaders. The Kansas City Current, a professional sports team, is a prime example of this, with its association with prominent athletes like Patrick Mahomes highlighting the significance of such connections within the local sports community.
These connections can be invaluable when it comes to business opportunities, partnerships, and marketing efforts. They often leverage these connections to enhance their business ventures.
LeBron James, a basketball superstar
He is also a savvy businessman. His connections have helped him secure lucrative franchise deals, such as his stake in Blaze Pizza. 4
His network has played a pivotal role in expanding the franchise and increasing its visibility. Similarly, former NFL player Kris Brown has found success with Dunkin’ franchises in Kansas City.
Drive for Success
Athletes are naturally competitive and driven to succeed. Many professional athletes, like Peyton Manning, have transitioned into franchise ownership, with Manning owning several Papa John’s locations.
Similarly, Marshawn Lynch, known for his fierce determination on the field, has embraced entrepreneurship by owning multiple businesses, including a Beast Mode Apparel store and a co-ownership stake in a professional indoor football team.
This drive doesn’t disappear when they retire from sports; instead, it often propels them into new ventures with the same intensity. This relentless pursuit of excellence is a key factor in their success as franchise owners.
Peyton Manning, the legendary NFL quarterback
He has channeled his competitive spirit into owning several Papa John’s franchises.
So many professional athletes are leveraging their competitive spirit to succeed in franchise ownership. His determination to succeed in business has been as strong as his drive to win on the football field.
Conclusion
Athletes who are franchise owners possess a unique combination of traits—discipline, leadership, resilience, strategic thinking, and a drive for success—that make them ideal business owners.
The dynamics of professional sports teams are similar to those of franchise operations, as both require proven working systems and structured support. Their ability to translate their athletic skills into the business world has led to numerous success stories in franchise ownership.
As more athletes transition from sports to business, it’s clear that they have the tools to thrive in this new arena. Whether it’s through brand recognition, financial resources, or sheer determination, athletes who are franchisees continue to prove that their winning ways extend far beyond the world of sports.
Are you a professional athlete looking to transition into franchise ownership like the greats? Taking that first step is easier with the right guidance. Connect with a franchise consultant who understands your unique needs and can help you explore the best opportunities.
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