Next Level 24 Fitness’ Garrick Spain isn’t your typical gym owner.

Spain, 36, had a successful football career, attending Nicholls State University before signing with the New Orleans Saints in 2010. That experience as a top athlete gave Spain a unique perspective on what Teche Area athletes needed in order to be successful at the next level.

Now, five years on, Next Level 24 Fitness has become one of the Teche Area’s best assets for athletes of all levels to improve their skills.

How long have you been in business?

I started Next Level 24 Fitness in 2019. I also have an industrial cleaning service, GS Finest Cleaning Services, that I started in 2014. I have contracts with WalMart, Target, Lowes, etc.

What made you want to start your own company?

I always had an entrepreneurial spirit. From a young age, I always wanted to have my own company. I didn’t know what it was going to be, but I knew I was going to work for myself.

What has been the biggest challenge that you’ve faced as a business owner?

Retaining customers. It’s a struggle to keep up with the wave, sometimes it’s up and sometimes it’s down. Sometimes you have clients that you think are locked-in and you never see them again. It’s about building a great relationship and knowing that, no ,ater, what, they’ll always come back.

What is your favorite memory from your time in business?

Probably when it was tax time and I saw $500,000 for the first time. But then I only profited like $50,000, so it’s all about learning the business side of things to make sure that you’re putting the money away and have it constantly coming in to keep up with your expenses.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Keep believing in what God spoke, his word, the visions that he gave me and to always depend on him.

If money was no object, what other program or business would you start in Iberia Parish? Why?

A recreational center to give back to the community. I’d like for there to be a place where people can always go.

Would you recommend business ownership/entrepreneurship to others? Why or why not?

I would, but I would caution them to have a strong organization behind them and a fire gameplan. It’s not easy, but if you have your head on straight and all of your ducks in a row, you’ll make it.

What does Black History Month mean to you?

It means everything. It’s me, my life and my morals. It’s what I stand for and it’s about the people who paved the way for me to be where I’m at. It’s about remembering where you came from.

What do you consider to be the biggest challenge facing the Black community today?

I wouldn’t even say that there are challenges. If you continue to be yourself, I believe that no matter what is thrown at you, you’ll be okay. I believe in what God says. If He says I’m winning, then I’m winning.