From BizLaunch: Soccer Shots

Profile: Tom Bartley, Franchise Owner

This Wednesday, May 4th at BizLaunch in Rockledge we welcome Tom Bartley, former BizLaunch participant, entrepreneur and franchise owner with Soccer Shots, an engaging children’s soccer program with a focus on character development. Tom is a US Air Force veteran Ohio native who started playing soccer at the age of 4 and finished his playing career in 1999 with the Aviano Futbol Club in Aviano, Italy. He channeled that skill into coaching, and ultimately purchased his Soccer Shots franchise in August of 2013 and currently employs various coaches throughout Brevard County.
Tom was kind enough to offer some insights to his success.

What ignited the spark in you to start your business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and needed to find something that I was passionate about. During my time in BizLaunch I had some unique ideas and they all revolved around soccer. Also, my Entrepreneur Operations classes at EFSC played a huge role in educating myself as to the intracacies of operating a business.

How do you define success?
I believe success is something that exists in each of us. It is certainly not given and takes a great deal of hard work. Most of the time being successful also means you have failed at one thing or many things but didn’t stop trying.

To what do you most attribute your success?
Having a solid work ethic that I learned growing up and during my nearly 10 years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force. Support from my family and the community. Hiring the right personnel and trusting them to do the job that they were hired to do.

What makes you happy?
Most people think money is the true sign of happiness. Seeing the children of our community that we are making a positive impact on is worth more than I ever dreamed possible. Getting high fives and seeing a child’s face light up when we pick them up for class is uplifting. Also showing my own children how to make an impact in their community and to follow their passions. It motivates me to work hard to set a good example for them to follow.

BizLaunch is a networking and skill building program for aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to grow. To attend, please register here.