When the Flemings family took a leap of faith and decided to open a Goldfish Swim School in Rogers, AR, they knew the profound impact it was going to have, not only on their family, but on the thousands of families in their community whose children would benefit from learning crucial life-saving skills.

But, they never could have imagined the uncharted waters they’d have to navigate in order to open the business they’d worked so hard to build.

As they were nearing their long-anticipated grand opening, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and the Flemings, like many business owners, found themselves facing a world of unknowns, not knowing what the future would hold.

YET, THEY PROPELLED FORWARD…

Despite the obstacles they faced, the Flemings pushed forward knowing they were building toward something bigger than themselves. Propelled by their passion, and the support of the entire Goldfish franchise office, the Flemings not only opened their swim school on-time, but in a safe and responsible manner that set the standard for aquatics facilities in the area.

“We knew we were in good hands,” said co-owner Mark Fleming, who runs the swim school alongside his father Wade, mother Paula and wife Nici. “From day one, we knew we had a great team of people surrounding us at Goldfish. From start to finish, they ensured we had everything we needed to open successfully—even amidst a worldwide pandemic.”

While this wasn’t the Flemings’ first business venture, operating a swim school was new territory for their family.

“We found ourselves in the deep end of a four-foot pool,” Mark noted. “But, the Goldfish Swim School team went above and beyond to support us every step of the way—from obtaining financing and selecting a site to supporting the construction process, training our team and more.”

Little by little all the pieces of the puzzle were coming together. Although the way they pictured their opening may have changed, their vision remained the same: creating a safe, fun and welcoming environment for children to learn and grow.

With a strong operational plan in place for controlling social distancing, sanitization and facility capacity, the Flemings received the blessing of their local health department to open, and began teaching swim lessons this past June—setting the standard for their state.

…AND THEY MADE A SPLASH IN ARKANSAS

We’re astonished by what the Flemings family has been able to accomplish within the short time they’ve been open. Progress is being made in their pool every day!

With every kick, stroke and breath, children in Arkansas are learning to respect the water, developing the courage to dive into new experiences and are having lots of fun while they build confidence in their abilities to accomplish great things!

Their team is truly creating a positive ripple effect in Rogers, Arkansas!

Here’s a look at how their team is making waves and having fun while teaching kids how to be safer in and around the water!

ARE YOU READY TO BE PART OF A FRANCHISE THAT’S MAKING WAVES?

With more than 100 locations across North America (and growing), we know what it takes to help a franchisee thrive in this industry. As we expand across North America, we’re looking for passionate individuals to join our growing Goldfish Family.

Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of franchising or you’re looking to build your portfolio, we invite you to learn more about the available markets in which Goldfish Swim School currently has opportunities.

Are you ready to take a leap of faith and pursue your passion for something more? We would love to hear from you! Take the next step and contact us today.