Frank Fiume’s Journey with i9 Sports: A Franchise Success Story
In the milestone 100th episode of the Emerging Franchise Brands podcast, producer Anthony takes the reins to interview the host and franchise visionary, Frank Fiume. Frank’s journey from an unfulfilled career in medical sales to founding i9 Sports is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and strategic franchising.
Finding Entrepreneurship Frank’s entrepreneurial spirit was ignited in the mid-90s when he was dissatisfied with the poorly run adult softball leagues he played in. Realizing he could bring professionalism to the industry, he started his own league in New York. Within five years, it became the largest privately owned adult men’s softball league in the state.
The Birth of i9 Sports Relocating to Florida, Frank discovered the NFL’s initiative to promote flag football for kids. Leveraging his experience with adult leagues, he launched a children’s flag football league, which quickly grew. Faced with the decision to expand through company-owned locations or franchising, Frank chose the latter, despite knowing little about it initially. His decision was driven by a desire to legitimize the business and be first to market.
Challenges and Pivots Frank’s journey wasn’t without its hurdles. A significant challenge arose when the NFL imposed new regulations that threatened i9 Sports’ autonomy. Frank made the bold decision to drop the NFL branding and run the leagues under the i9 Sports name. This move, though risky, proved successful as registrations soared, validating that it was the unique i9 experience, not the NFL name, that drew participants.
Growth and Mentorship A pivotal moment for Frank was hiring a COO to manage daily operations, allowing him to focus on strategic growth. This decision, along with a strong team, helped navigate the company through the 2008 recession, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and foresight in franchising.
Exiting with an ESOP After years of dedication, Frank decided it was time to step back, choosing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) to sell the company to those who helped build it. This move not only rewarded his employees but also ensured the continued success and stability of i9 Sports.
Legacy and New Beginnings Frank’s story underscores the significance of passion, resilience, and strategic decision-making in building a successful franchise. His legacy with i9 Sports continues to inspire, and his latest venture, the Emerging Franchise Brands podcast, aims to mentor the next generation of franchise founders, ensuring they have the support and guidance he once sought.
For aspiring entrepreneurs and franchise owners, Frank’s journey offers invaluable lessons on the importance of aligning passion with business acumen, the necessity of pivoting when faced with challenges, and the power of investing in a dedicated team. As Frank says, “Success without fulfillment is the ultimate failure,” a mantra that has guided him through his entrepreneurial endeavors.
October 6, 2024
