Meet Dre Sloan: his passion and expertise in volleyball and sports drove him to open a successful performance training academy while also owning his company. Read on to learn more. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? The diversity the field offers in terms of its many service areas and endless opportunities.

Your Job Title? Owner & CEO

Company you are with now? UPPS Volleyball Club, LLC, & Ultimate-Pro Sports Academy, LLC, American Heritage School

Websites: www.ultimate-pro.webs.com www.gotupps.webs.com www.uppsvolleyballclub.com

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day in the work-life for you. As a sports coach and trainer for primarily female athletes, I conduct a variety of sports performance related training such as sport skill development, strength and speed development, bio-mechanics analysis, video analysis and/or general coaching. In addition, I work primarily with overweight or out-of-shape women seeking to loose weight or engage again in a sport discipline.

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? I opened a sports performance training academy in 2002 which was sold in 2006. That business model was re-created into what we have today, Ultimate-Pro Sports Academy, which is a “turn-key” franchise business currently being launched.  I am now entering my 17th year serving as a Fitness Executive and small business owner.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I was born to coach and help young adults grow in the sport they love and to achieve their dreams. I am a former professional volleyball player, therefore, I have faced many similar adversities and understand the challenges the growing and competitive sports market brings. My passion, together with my years of study, hands-on experience and leadership roles, has been the inspiration for my success today and of those I serve.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Follow your dream and remember that “…today’s answer could be tomorrow’s success, so never waste the opportunities you have!”

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? I am from Brazil, so the only way I know how to express the joy and fulfillment from what I do is through a smile and never forgetting those moments of success – as those moments often define who you are and the impact you have!  That would be the greatest compliment and payoff for me!

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.