Meet Coach D | Owner – Athletic Zone

We had the good fortune of connecting with Coach D and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Coach, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Life is full of unexpected battles. Those battles are what inevitably influence our decision on whether or not we want to fight or flee. But I choose the former, and instead of fleeing I believe we should course correct when situations don’t work out in our favor. I’ve learned that the battles or trials are necessary for the revelation of who we really are. For gold is tried in the fire and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity-Sirach 2:5. So just as pure gold has to go the a refining process to reveal its true character we must also go through the fire, battles or tribulations to reveal ours.

What should our readers know about your business?
Athletic Zone (AZ) is a family owned and ran business. We focus on optimizing overall health and performance for all levels of fitness. We are rooted in old west Dallas where in the past there has been a drought as it pertains to health and fitness.

I’m proud of the impact we are able to make by providing jobs, mentorship and the contribution we are able to make within our community. I’m just as proud if not more proud that we have an opportunity to grow our non profit organization Jacob and Sons.
I’m thankful to be in the position I’m in. To be able to wake up and know that what you put your mind to came to manifestation is something special and to be appreciated. But it wasn’t easy. I spent years working 2-3 jobs 16 hrs a day just to be able to do what I love doing. The only difference now is that I work 16+ hours building my brand, relationships and all things AZ. This has allowed me to explore other opportunities as an entrepreneur as well.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that relationship are more important than opportunity. I opened a gym in 2012 when I was new to Dallas and didn’t have many relationships established. I struggled in business and eventually shut down. The second time around in 2018 I had been grinding and staying diligent with my craft and built relationships so much so that we were able to open and successfully run a business with little resources. So having a good name and building relationships would be a lesson that I would share with anyone looking to start and establish a business.

I want the world to know that we are establishing ourselves as a premier gym in the Dallas area. My story is one that has been formed by many trials which make me who I am. I know that someone else somewhere also has been though or is going through something that may seem unconquerable but know that you are built for it. Just go through fire and let the revelation of who you are be manifested for the world to see. I believe in you ✌🏾

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m originally from Ft Worth so I would have to hit the stock yards. Afterwards get some BBQ from smith Spot BBQ then catch a TCU, SMU, Dallas Cowboys or Mavericks game. Afterwards we might hit up a local lake (Joe pool or Ray Hubbard ) do some fishing and kick our feet up.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shout out to the Most High for all things. Shout out to my family and the AZ family for supporting the mission as we impact lives daily.

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