Long ago, as a new mom, I embarked upon my first entrepreneurial endeavor. I was 28 years old and had an idea. I knew nothing about owning my own business; I just knew that I had an idea for a business that had not existed in my area. I also had a skill set that gave me an advantage in this business.
The year was 1988, and I was living in The Woodlands, TX. My Pediatrician discovered that I had been a former college cheerleader and National Cheerleading Association instructor. He casually asked if I would do some private lessons for his daughters. Little did I know that because of this conversation, it would lead to a full-fledged business.
My first child had been born, and I continued teaching cheerleading lessons out of my garage. I had mirrors installed and a baby strapped to my chest. Student after student came through until I was fully booked. I had been asked to judge the NCA National Competition that year and discovered a new division called the All-Star division. I was intrigued.
I came home from this competition, sat down at my typewriter (yes, typewriter), and wrote 25 letters to the parents of the girls I was coaching. I explained the All-Star concept and asked if they would be interested in having their daughter be a part of this new program. Every single parent said yes.
All-American Cheerleading & Gymnastics was born! What began as one team out of a gymnastics gym grew into six full teams and into my own space a few years later. I embarked on my first commercial lease of a 9,000 s.f. building and watched this business absolutely take off!
Before long, I had over 1,000 students and a staff of 25. It was crazy! As the years went by, I had someone ask to buy the company from me. That same little business is now a franchise under the name of Woodlands Elite. I am proud that my concept has grown into a massive industry.
What did I learn from this first endeavor?
1. If you have an idea, go with it! You never know until you try!
2. Think big, be brave, and be ready!
3. Use the skill set that you alone possess. You know more than you think.
4. We each have the ability to make an impact on this world.
I am thankful for the families that entrusted me with their daughters. I am still in contact with many of these young ladies today. Most of them are now moms who are experiencing sports with their children. It has been fun following them.
Here are a few pictures down memory lane:
NCA Staff - Circa 1980
North Texas Cheer - Circa 1980
NCA Staff at SMU summer Camp - Circa 1980
This is the updated AI picture! Pretty cool. It gave me true, 80's hair! Love it.
I would love to hear about your entrereneurial experiences. Maybe we can make this into a challenge. There are many of you out there that have some stories to tell! Debe Maxwell, CRS!
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