They say that if you stay focused on one line of work, you can end up achieving mastery in it by turning into an entrepreneur. With each passing year, you become more experienced and qualified at what you do. The same is true in the case of sports. We’ve seen those shadowy teen figures with child-like features step on the field during their debut, wondering how they will survive the competition, only to have them leave us in awe of their skills and grow into icons 10 years down the line. Taking inspiration from the age-old tradition of staying focused, here’s an insight into a Jiu-jitsu player who turned into a sports entrepreneur.
“Every young person I meet seems to be mired in self-doubt and confusion about their future, even if they have the talent and proven ability. I always tell them to keep at it. If you’ve started with Jiu-jitsu, give it five years, don’t expect any miracles overnight,” summarizes Hans, as he sheds light on what he’s learned over the years. Hans started with Jiu-jitsu when there existed little to no passion for the art, only a handful of people were keen to learn it and had the necessary discipline. Today, Jiu-jitsu has taken center stage when it comes to Mixed Martial Arts.
So, how did a Jiu-jitsu player turn into a sports entrepreneur? Hans explains that every sportsperson, no matter how famous, always worries about their livelihood, especially once their sports career is over. On average, that would be around 40 years of age for most sports, barring a few such as golf. This concern always lurked in the back of his mind, and he decided to become a sports entrepreneur so that he could share his skills with the young generation of today and be involved in shaping the future off Jiu-jitsu.
Over the years, Hans has successfully positioned leading brands and carved out strategies for famous professionals such as Conor McGregor and Rampage Jackson, among others. He’s donned many hats, his other ventures involved developing award-winning television commercials and creating best-selling shoes, apparel, and entertainment. Through his offerings, Hans creates a fusion of his sports experience and consumer insights. This unique and rare combination is what separates him from the other players that have turned into entrepreneurs post retirement.
Hans believes that it all boils down to a person’s vision. He feels there can be no limits if one wants to achieve success, there is no such thing as failure, only opportunities to learn and improve. In his opinion, today’s technology-oriented youth needs a little push to stay on the right track. Hans has diversified into different sports disciplines as he aims to stay ahead of the curve, to stay true to his vision of ‘sports helping transform every person’s life.’ Will he succeed? We’re not sure, but it sure seems likely.
