From Dream to Reality

How I Built a Baseball Business from Scratch

Hello, everyone. Dan Gazaway here. Today, I want to share a simple yet profound story about how I started my baseball business. My hope is that this story resonates with you, whether you’re looking to start a business, connect with more people, or just gain some inspiration. Twenty-three years ago, fresh out of college, I was working for a company selling weight equipment to school districts on a national level. I loved my job, but deep down, I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur.

The Spark of an Idea

One day, while driving through California on a sales trip with my coworker Terry, I asked him about his successful businesses. His response was straightforward: "I just started." That simplicity struck a chord with me. I confessed that I wanted to be an entrepreneur too, but I didn’t know what to pursue. Terry asked me what I was passionate about and what I knew well. My answer was immediate: baseball. I had been a pitcher since I was ten years old.

Terry then suggested I become a pitching coach. Initially, I was hesitant. I compared myself to major league players like Tom House who charged $50 an hour for coaching. I doubted I could charge the same without their credentials. But Terry encouraged me, asking if I knew more about pitching than the kids and their parents. When I affirmed, he said, "Then you can charge $50 an hour."

Taking the Leap

Inspired and with newfound confidence, I decided to become a pitching coach. On the flight home, I kept telling myself, "I’m a pitching coach." I had no formal experience teaching pitching, but I believed in my knowledge and passion.

Upon landing, I grabbed the only two baseballs I had and headed to the local park, Lehigh Vets Park. There, I approached a dad playing catch with his two sons. I introduced myself and struck up a conversation. When he asked what I did, I proudly declared, "I’m a pitching coach." To my delight, he immediately showed interest and asked if I could teach his boys. After an hour-long session, he handed me a crisp $50 bill. It was my first lesson, and it felt like validation of my new path.

Building Momentum

When I got home, I showed my wife the $50 bill. She was surprised and somewhat skeptical, thinking I might only teach a few students here and there. But I was hooked. I knew I needed to develop my skills and create a system to effectively teach pitching.

I spent the next few months tirelessly promoting my services. I printed business cards and would stand up in the stands at local games, announcing, "I’m Dan Gazaway, a pitching coach. Raise your hand if your son pitches." My persistence paid off. Within six months, my business grew through word of mouth, and referrals became my primary source of new clients.

Sustained Success

For 23 years, I’ve been teaching 15 to 20 hours of pitching lessons every week. The journey has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve developed a system that has helped countless young pitchers improve their skills. But more importantly, I’ve inspired others to pursue their dreams.

Key Takeaways

The core message of my story is simple: just start. If you have a passion or an idea, take the first step. Don’t let doubts or comparisons hold you back. Believe in your knowledge and your ability to make a difference. Embrace the process, learn along the way, and stay persistent. Your passion and dedication will lead to success.

Conclusion

Starting my baseball business was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth every challenge. My journey from a corporate job to an entrepreneurial venture has taught me valuable lessons about passion, perseverance, and the importance of taking the first step.

So, if you have an idea or a dream, my invitation to you is clear: just move forward. Take that first step and see where it leads you. You might just find your calling, as I did with coaching baseball.