Today we’d like to introduce you to Larry Johnson.
Larry, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
In 1998, I went out to a youth football game and saw some kids that were lacking correct training. Myself being an athlete of the game watched with reservations what were these kids really lacking. For the most part, they were coached well on the fundamentals, but still, something was missing. Then midway through the game, it hit me; these kids are not in physical shape, let alone football shape. So from that point, I put together a plan to start working with young athletes. However, there was one problem, I still had a full-time job in Marketing.
In January of 1999, I decided to launch Cover 2 Sports training. I initially started by handing out flyers at track meets AAU Basketball games, and spring youth football games. I thought jackpot spring football. I got involved with a few teams and started working with a few athletes. I started with only 5-10 kids working on the basics from proper stretching. The correct running technique and strengthening drills. Well, five to ten kids started to multiply to twenty to thirty athletes in varies ages. What is so ironic, was that I had not charged one single dime to this point. I was six months into it and I LOVED IT… I was watching young men & women grow in there confidence not just on the field of play but in the classroom. The feedback from parents was overwhelming, to say the least.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I think when you start your own business, it is never a smooth road. The challenges of balancing a full-time job, and starting a business have its positives and negatives.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Cover 2 Sports training – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Cover 2 Sports Training was created for athletes that wanted to excel in whatever sport they participate in. I specialize in speed, agility, strength & conditioning, and lateral/linear movement. Over the last 20 years, I am most proud of seeing many of the athletes receive athletic scholarships, and earn their degree. I am also proud of the relationship I am able to develop with the parents and athletes I train. Sometimes I have to take off the trainer hat and become a life coach. I check to make sure all my athletes are performing well in school, and if they are not passing, I will not train them. The biggest part for me is that it’s not just about training an athlete for 1-2 hours and sending them on their way, but about making sure the individual is a well-rounded athlete.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m looking forward to hosting my 20th Summer Training Program, which is set to kick off in June 2019.
Pricing:
- 12 Sessions for $300 ($12.50/session)
Contact Info:
- Phone: 832-659-4640
- Email: cover208@gmail.com
- Instagram: speed.cover208
Image Credit:
Spartan Race (photography)
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