Top Sports Franchise Opportunities 2024

With millions of fans around the world, it’s no surprise that the global sports market is expected to be worth $623 billion by 2027. And luckily, franchising provides an opportunity to get a slice of the market.

Whether you’re a sports lover or just looking to get into the industry, let's take a closer look at some of the top sports franchise opportunities available this year.

Play It Again Sports

• Investment Range: $299,100 - $407,500

• Unit Count: 290+

Play It Again Sports is a retail franchise that buys and sells used and new sporting goods Customers bring in their pre-owned items, receiving cash or store credit in return, and the store then evaluates and resells these products at prices lower than those of new equipment. Play It Again Sports stores may also offer new equipment. The franchise is under the portfolio of Winmark, a company in the "ultra-high-value" retailing niche, which combines selling high-quality secondhand goods alongside brand new merchandise in a traditional retail format.

i9 Sports

• Investment Range: $36,500 - $69,900.

• Unit Count: 230+

i9 Sports is a leading multi-sport provider offering recreational leagues for boys and girls. Established in 2002 and franchising since 2003, it has expanded to over 150 locations with 2.5 million registrations. Focused solely on youth sports, they offer leagues in various sports like flag football, lacrosse and soccer. The brand’s mission is to provide a community-oriented experience while helping kids succeed in life through enjoyable and convenient coaching and instruction.

Soccer Shots

• Investment Range: $42,950 - $54,300

• Unit Count: 300+

Soccer Shots is a franchise that provides soccer coaching for children. Since the brand doesn’t require franchisees to own or rent fields, the franchise requires low overhead costs. Soccer Shots offers their program in various locations such as childcare facilities, preschools, elementary schools and parks. The company emphasizes well-trained coaches, effective communication tools for parents, and a curriculum that meets state education standards.

Amazing Athletes

• Investment Range: $63,050 - $96,500

• Unit Count: 145+

Amazing Athletes is a youth sports franchise that focuses on teaching kids the fundamentals of various sports and healthy eating habits. Founded over 20 years ago, their mission is to inspire active futures for children by using sports as a tool to empower them. They aim to fill the gap in physical education for elementary-aged students, offering programs that supplement school curriculum. In just 35 minutes a week, coaches teach valuable skills and exercises, promoting physical activity and proper nutrition.

American Poolplayers Association

• Investment Range: $23,211 - $29,026

• Unit Count: 340+

The American Poolplayers Association (APA) is a franchise founded in 1981 by professional pool players Terry "Texas Terry" Bell and Larry "The Iceman" Hubbart. Offering 8-Ball and 9-Ball leagues in the US, Canada, and Japan, it aims to fill a gap in recreational pool organization. With over 300 U.S. franchises and international expansion, APA hosts annual championships in Las Vegas. Franchisees, known as League Operators, organize leagues and championships, attracting players with cash prizes.

Whether it's selling sports equipment, nurturing young athletes or organizing recreational leagues, there's a franchise for different interests and business models.