Batman to the rescue:
When David Gavigan came to Philadelphia in 2009 in search of something to occupy his time, he didn’t realize what he had been bargaining for. After a stint volunteering for Americorps for a year upon graduating from college, he knew the best way to make new friends was to pursue what was already his favorite pastime: baseball. So, after crafting a compelling business plan and pitching to investors, Gavigan set-up shop in Northern Liberties with his own batting cage business.
Here is an exclusive interview with the young entrepreneur:
SmallBizPhilly: Were you always into baseball?
David Gavigan: Yes, it was definitely a love of mines when I was younger. I played in High School and in the AAU tournament while growing up in Reading, PA. I soon came to the realization that year-round training in baseball is definitely needed.
SBP: What makes you different from your competitors?
DG: There aren’t many batting cages in and around the city. We’re the closest one to center city and we are open everyday of the week. We also try to be welcoming of all skill levels.
SBP: What were you doing prior?
DG: I worked for a non-profit called “Cradles to Crayons”. I was the outreach coordinator, working with volunteer groups and was able to introduce them to the city of Philadelphia.
SBP: Have you always been an entrepreneur?
DG: It’s hard to say. I remember when I was a kid, I tried unsuccessfully to rip off a friend selling a baseball card for $5. I think it was a John Kruk card.
SBP: What current projects are you working on to give back to the community?
DG: I do this line of work full-time. I am heavily involved with community events, and I do activities with other small business owners. I also host fundraisers for non-profits. I am hosting one soon with the High School of the Future as well as for a neighborhood adoption center called STAR (Street Trails Animal Rescue).
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