Play It Again Sports is a locally owned franchise that specializes in new and used fitness equipment and sporting goods. The concept allows customers to sell or trade in slightly used items for cash or other desired equipment. Play It Again Sports is all about recycling quality equipment and their goal is to keep kids and adults in sporting activities or focused on fitness without breaking the bank. They have recently relocated their store to the corner of 48th & Vine and are really excited about the new larger facility. Diane Hesson is the owner of this Play It Again Sports location.
How did you get started in the business?
I was a past customer of Play it Again Sports. I frequented the store looking for quality equipment for my own kids. The more I shopped there, the more I liked the concept. The opportunity to buy the franchise came about and I just felt like the timing was right. I had hit a plateau in my professional career and was ready for a change. Sporting goods just seems like a natural fit for me.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Balance. Sometimes I have a hard time with spreading myself too thin.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Taking the leap to buy this franchise was a big deal for me. I’m not a “fly by the seat of my pants” person. I like things to be very definitive. Having taken the challenge and actually growing the company to where it is today has been an incredible thing for me, personally and professionally.
Tell me a little about your family.
I have been married to my husband, Kevin for 24 years and we have two boys. Josh is 20 and is focusing on a career as a firefighter/paramedic. Jake is 17 and is currently finishing his Junior year in high school with plans to do something in Diesel Mechanics/Technology. Both boys work at the store with me.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Starting a family. I never thought having kids could have such a sobering effect on a person! It makes you think about what is really important in life.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Day off? I like spending time with my family. We enjoy water sports, golfing and have an addiction to 4 wheeling.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Love and respect yourself. If you can’t love and respect yourself, you certainly can’t expect anyone else to.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Tenacious
Which talent would you most like to have?
I wish I had more musical abilities!
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny. My favorite book to read to kids because I get to use funny voices and it has a great message.
What is your favorite movie?
The Sound of Music – I’m a musical fanatic!
What is your favorite TV show?
Criminal Minds
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
In my interpretation of famous, I’d simply love one more chance to sit down with a home cooked meal with my Mom and Dad.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
You can reach me by phone at (402) 483-7447, by email at pias11505@yahoo.com or visit www.playitagainsportslincoln.com.