Braedy Sommerville, a sophomore management major, is the founder of 55 Athletics, a business that connects college students with young athletes through hands-on sports training and personal mentorship. By helping young athletes develop their skills and build confidence, 55 Athletics inspires the next generation to grow their love for sports.
What is the story of your business? How did it start?
Sports have always played a formative role in my life. Personal coaching has given me the opportunity to share that passion with others, and in doing so, I've discovered a deeper sense of purpose and joy found in the process. Growing up, I was drawn to exploring new training methods and different approaches to competition, always looking for ways to push myself further. Today, as a college student, I have a unique platform to pass that same passion on to the next generation of young athletes.
What has been the most challenging part of launching your business? How did you overcome this?
Landing our first client was the most difficult step in launching 55 Athletics. It marked the moment the business transitioned from an idea into a service that someone believed had real value. Before that first client came on board, a great deal of behind the scenes work went into building a firm foundation for the business, ranging from refining our approach to establishing the trust needed to earn that initial opportunity.
What is the goal behind your entrepreneurial pursuits? What do you envision for your business?
My goal with 55 Athletics is to build meaningful, lasting relationships with our athletes. As we serve as a consistent positive, encouraging voice that consistently challenges them to take the next step in their development, both on and off the field.
Does your business have a social mission or purpose? If so, explain how your business is redemptive in a Christlike manner?
At the heart of 55 Athletics is a mission to make quality training accessible and affordable for kids and families. We strive to put the athlete first in every decision we make, regardless of circumstance. Above all, we let our actions and conduct serve as a genuine testament to our relationship with Jesus.
How do you see your company having an impact on the Samford and/or Birmingham communities?
55 Athletics will have a positive impact within the Samford community, along with the metro Birmingham area. We encourage other Samford students to get involved and let 55 Athletics serve as a launch pad for them to begin pouring back into the community. Within the Birmingham community, we strive to be known as a community-driven business aiming to create real relationships through our family first reputation.
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