About Frank Fiume
Founder of i9 Sports® | Host of Emerging Franchise Brands™ | Mentor to the Next Generation of Franchisors
From Medical Sales to a Movement
Frank Fiume is a pioneering entrepreneur best known as the founder of i9 Sports®—the nation’s first and largest franchisor of youth sports leagues and camps. But long before i9 became a household name, Frank walked away from a promising career in medical sales to chase something deeper: his passion for sports and his belief that youth athletics could be done better.
He launched ABA Sports, an adult softball league that exploded to over 900 teams in six years. Then in 2003, he set his sights on a bigger mission—to reinvent youth sports. That’s when i9 Sports was born.
Building a National Legacy
Over the next two decades, Frank led i9 Sports to national prominence. Under his leadership, the brand:
- Expanded to 1,000+ locations across 41 states
- Served over 5 million kids and families
- Generated more than $400 million in revenue
- Was ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 for 17 years
- Named #1 Children’s Fitness Franchise
- Featured by Inc. Magazine, Fox Business News, HBO Real Sports, USA Today, and more
More importantly, i9 Sports created a brand-new category in franchising—one centered on fun, safety, and convenience for today’s busy families.
The Exit: Doing It the Right Way
Frank didn’t just build something big—he exited with integrity.
Starting in 2016, he began a multi-phase transition of the company: first through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) to reward and empower his team, then through private equity investment, and finally, a full acquisition by Roark Capital in 2021.
He left the company thriving—and with a legacy that will outlast him.
What Frank’s Doing Now
Today, Frank is in his “Legacy Architect” chapter—still deeply engaged, but on his terms. Through Emerging Franchise Brands, he mentors the next generation of franchisors, helping founders scale smarter and avoid the emotional and financial pitfalls of growth.
He currently serves as:
- Host of the Emerging Franchise Brands Podcast – The #1 most-watched franchisor podcast on YouTube
- Leader of the EFB Founders Club – A private boardroom for growth-stage franchisors navigating real-world challenges
- Speaker, Storyteller & Strategic Advisor – Supporting founders and private equity groups as they scale or evaluate franchise brands
Why He Does It
Frank knows what it feels like to win everything… and still wonder what’s next.
That’s why he’s passionate about helping other founders build businesses that create both impact and inner peace—not just impressive exits.
If you’re a franchisor founder, future partner, or simply someone who resonates with the mission…
Frank built this platform for you.
