While pursuing a degree in entrepreneurship from the University of Houston, Larry Wilkins III, vice president of Just Play and director of Just Play Houston, joined the organization’s coaching team before stepping into a leadership role. Offering diverse basketball programs – including classes, camps, clinics and tournaments – the Just Play team provides communities and individuals with quality spaces and resources to achieve their wellness and athletic goals. By Erika Ortega
A Successful Day Is All About the Smiles
While pursuing a degree in entrepreneurship from the University of Houston, Larry Wilkins III, vice president of Just Play and director of Just Play Houston, joined the organization’s coaching team before stepping into a leadership role. Offering diverse basketball programs – including classes, camps, clinics and tournaments – the Just Play team provides communities and individuals with quality spaces and resources to achieve their wellness and athletic goals.
Wilkins contributes to all aspects of the business.
“I love being able to connect with athletes and parents,” he said. “In my position, I touch on all areas of Just Play, so I meet families with different backgrounds and expectations of the game.”
With a focus on expanding programs, services and locations while maintaining top operational and safety standards, Wilkins stays very busy, but for him, impacting the lives of members is very rewarding.
“It is a successful day if I put a smile on someone’s face,” he said. “My job is to help the athletes reach their goals and enjoy the process along the way.”
Here’s a glimpse at a typical workday of a Just Play Sports franchise owner:
- 7:30 a.m. In addition to answering calls and emails, Wilkins takes time to exercise. Prioritizing his wellness allows him to be the best leader and clears his head for the day.
- 11:30 a.m. Wilkins usually has lunch with team members, college coaches or business partners. The social aspect of sharing a meal makes meetings more productive and provides a successful platform for cultivating strong relationships.
- 2 p.m. After returning to the office, he gets caught up on business news and emails. With the long-term goal of opening more Just Play facilities, he is committed to extending services to more athletes and kids.
- 5 p.m. When office and planning tasks are completed, Wilkins likes to finish the day on the court interacting with athletes, coaches and parents.
Erika Ortega