Why Former Athletes Make the Best Associates
Whether someone was a professional, semi-professional or student athlete, there are certain skills that a person gains from the world of sports. At 84 Lumber, we've found that former athletes are among our best associates! Here's why:
1. Athletes are disciplined and organized
Former athletes are no strangers to managing a tight schedule. Juggling school or work, practice, games, competition, family and travel is a huge responsibility. Their ability to prioritize and allocate their time teaches organization, discipline and time management. These skills they learn as athletes stick with them for the rest of their lives and into the workforce.
2. Athletes are goal oriented
Setting personal goals and finding ways to achieve those goals is second nature for athletes. Athletes are passionate about their success, self-improvement and meeting goals. This mindset, when applied in the workforce, helps drive the success of the team and company.
3. Athletes are competitive
Former athletes are competitive in nature. Used to going up against competition, former athletes realize the task at hand and will put forward their best effort. This competitiveness helps athletes get the job done and lead the way, proving to be a great asset in the work environment.
4. Athletes are team players
While former athletes are independent and self-starters, they are also familiar with working on a team. This team-oriented mindset helps associates work together as a team, succeed as a team, and also encourage fellow associates to do their best. Former athletes realize their effort is part of a bigger picture and want to see everyone cross the finish line.
The 84 Lumber team is made up of a vast number of associates that have participated in both college and professional athletics. See how a career at 84 is the perfect transition into the workforce for former student athletes.
Jim Sams - Lead Operations Manager
“Playing a sport has helped prepare me for the competitive nature of the building materials industry as well as the competitiveness within 84 Lumber. We are always pushing each other to improve our team and company and playing sports has helped prepare me for that.”
Matt Sundstrom - Outside Sales Manager
“I have been in Outside Sales for the last 21 years. Started as MT fresh out of college. My background in team sports is what initially drew me to 84 Lumber. Seemed very much like being on a team, working hard to get better every single day.
I grew up playing all sports, and was a varsity High School athlete in baseball and basketball at Clarksville High School. I was fortunate to receive a scholarship out of high school to play college baseball as a right handed pitcher. Baseball is 100% responsible for who I am today. I feel like when I was hired here at 84 Lumber, almost 21 years ago, that my resume as a college baseball player helped me get the job. My Area Manager who hired me at the time, wanted to talk a lot about me playing ball during my interview with him. Came to find out over 15 people were interviewed for that spot. I tell my players that story to this very day. I will always remember that.
I have continued to coach over the last 20 years. I have coached High School, Middle School, and am currently a HC with the Clarksville Orioles, an elite travel baseball organization here in Clarksville. I love the game, and have a passion for young players.
If you want to find quality employees look no farther than ex-college athletes. For sure!!!”
Isaac Sanches - Co-Manager
“My name is Isaac Sanchez and I'm the Co-Manager here in Boise. I played football for over 20 years from high school, college, and semi- pro. My story is about high expectations and hard work taking you to where you want to go.”
Lance Smith - Manager
"I'm a former college football player and also coached in college before joining 84 Lumber. My youngest son is currently a three-sport athlete in high school. I also help coach high school football and baseball."
As we continue our hiring efforts across the country, we are proud to partner with the USCAA and support college athletes with successful life-long careers! No previous experience is needed to apply, and with 84 Lumber’s top-of-the-line Manager Trainee program, associates are set up for success. To view all open positions with 84 Lumber, visit 84lumber.com/careers.