When Super Bowl champion James Ihedigbo was ready to make a career change, he wanted to make a more direct contribution to his community. This is what led him to Kiddie Academy® and eventually, to Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine presenting him with the Former Pro Athlete MVP award.
“Community involvement is central to our mission,” said James. “We believe in giving back, building strong relationships, and contributing positively to the communities that support us.”
James’ involvement in Kiddie Academy has been going strong since 2016. He currently owns six thriving Academies throughout the Houston area, positively impacting more than 1,500 children every year, and he owes much of his success as a Franchise Owner to his experience with the NFL.
“Franchising feeds my competitive edge,” says James. “I am used to competing against others. I will talk to the most successful owners in the system and in childhood education across Texas and ask them what I need to know to excel. I want to be the best regardless of what I do.”
James also saw franchising with Kiddie Academy as an opportunity to have more control over his future. “The scary thing about the NFL is that you are not totally in control over your fate,” he says. “The idea that you could be terminated at any point of your career never sat well with me. Now, I control my fate, and I can do this as long as I desire.”
Since opening his first Academy, James has taken consistent initiative to build relationships with families currently enrolled at his Academy, as well as building connections with prospective families.
We can’t think of anyone more deserving of this incredible recognition. Learn more by reading James’ profile in Multi-Unit Franchisee Magazine.
