Owner FAQs
Why would I sell my swim club?
The most common reasons are retirement, burnout, health issues, or lack of a succession plan. Many owners have dedicated decades to their clubs but don't have a family member or coach ready to take over. Others face financial pressures from rising costs or simply want to pursue other opportunities. Selling to the right buyer provides peace of mind and ensures your legacy continues.
How do I know the right buyer?
Look for someone who understands swimming, can manage operations, is committed to your community, will preserve your culture, and has the financial capacity to succeed. I'm a D1 swimmer from Georgia Tech with 8+ years of coaching experience, founder of two successful swimming businesses, a South Carolina native, and at 22, I have decades ahead to dedicate to this work.
How much is my club worth?
Most clubs sell for 3-4x annual profit. A small club (50-100 members) might be worth $100K-$400K, while larger clubs (200-400 members) can command $750K-$1M+. Value increases with strong retention, favorable pool leases, experienced coaches, and profitability. Declining membership and high turnover decrease value.
Can I stay involved after selling?
Absolutely. Many sellers stay on as paid consultants for 6-12 months, continue coaching part-time, serve on an advisory board, or mentor the new owner. The transition is completely flexible and designed around your needs.
What happens to my coaches?
My goal is to retain all high-performing coaches by offering competitive pay, professional development, and a positive work environment. Coaches can choose to stay or leave, but most stay when they see genuine commitment to excellence.
How long does the acquisition process take?
For-profit clubs take 2-4 months from initial conversation to closing. Non-profit clubs take 4-6 months due to board approval and IRS compliance. The process includes initial meetings (1-2 weeks), due diligence (2-4 weeks), Letter of Intent (1-2 weeks), and closing (4-8 weeks).