D1 Training Franchise - Provide Sports Training in Your Community: Will Bartholomew

November 27, 2023  by Ewell Smith

From injury to inspiration: Ex-College Team Captain Will Bartholomew empowers athletes nationwide, founding D1 Training franchise



7 takeaways Will shares from this episode of the Close The Deal. Com Podcast (Your First Franchise  special edition): 


  1. His favorite restaurant to do business in Nashville, TN
  2. Overcoming high school football and pro football injuries to launch D1
  3. The mission of D1 Training is to make an impact on communities
  4. What makes the D1 training model unique
  5. The core values of D1 training
  6. Franchise financial insights - the profit margin and the investment level
  7. What makes the ideal candidate - could this be you?



This episode is brought to you by YourFirstFranchise.Com


Former College Team Captain Inspires Athletes Nationwide with D1 Training Franchise



Considering a D1franchise, contact Ewell Smith: https://www.franchiseandfunding.com/contact



Products we ❤️  for our health:


  • Athletic Greens - AGI


Audio -  Close The Deal . Com Podcast:


CTD Podcast with Will Bartholomew

D1 Sports Training



Ewell Smith interviews the founder of D1 Training.


1. The Journey of D1 Training


Will reflects on the journey of D1 Training, starting with his personal experience of overcoming injuries as an athlete. The setbacks he faced led to the creation of D1, and the franchise has endured challenges like the 2008 recession and the recent pandemic, emerging stronger and more resilient.


2. Personal Gratitude and Perspective


Will Bartholomew shares his personal practice of daily gratitude, expressing thankfulness even for challenges and setbacks. He underscores the importance of being grateful for family and the lessons learned through life's trials, which have shaped him both as an athlete and a business owner.


3. Shared Values in Franchising


Will Bartholomew emphasizes the significance of shared values in a franchise partnership. He believes that aligning with a franchise that shares your personal value system is crucial for long-term success, especially when facing challenges and tough times.


4. Mission and Vision of D1 Training


The mission of D1 Training is to be the go-to place for athletes, providing inspiration and motivation to reach their goals. Will envisions D1 as not just a physical location but a holistic resource for athletes, offering content, products, and a supportive community to help individuals maximize their athletic potential.


5. D1's Core Values


D1 Training has four core values: being a team player, having passion for the work, making smart plays, and possessing D1 character. These values are not only integral to the success of the franchise but also contribute to creating a positive and impactful community within D1.


6. Business Model and Support


The D1 Training business model caters to a diverse clientele, including middle and high school athletes, adult fitness enthusiasts, and even professional athletes. The franchise offers large group training, semi-private sessions, and one-on-one coaching. D1 Training provides extensive support to franchisees, from real estate site selection to ongoing daily and weekly communication to ensure success.


7. Investment and Revenue


Prospective franchisees need to consider the investment range, ranging from $700,000, depending on factors like build-out costs. D1 Training boasts impressive Average Unit Volumes (AUVs) exceeding $600,000, showcasing a financially viable opportunity for those considering franchise ownership.


8. D1's Impact on Athletes


D1 Training aims to provide an enriching experience for athletes, helping them not only in reaching their goals but also in building character. The franchise is committed to making a positive impact on the community by investing in athletes and encouraging personal growth.


In summary, D1 Training stands out not just as a fitness franchise but as a community-driven platform with a clear mission to inspire and motivate athletes. The emphasis on shared values, a supportive business model, and a commitment to character development make D1 Training a compelling opportunity for those considering franchise ownership.



Considering a D1 franchise, set up a free consultation with Ewell Smith here.

Ewell Smith, host of the Close The Deal Podcast, discussing sales systems and revenue growth

About the Author

Ewell Smith is the publisher of CloseTheDeal.com and host of the Close The Deal Podcast, where he speaks with founders, sales leaders, and operators about building effective sales systems and scaling revenue. His work focuses on practical sales strategy, marketing execution, and the mindset behind consistent growth.

CEO recording LinkedIn content for demand generation
By ewell smith January 26, 2026
How CEOs use LinkedIn to drive real demand, authority, and sales in just one hour a month without hiring a marketing team.
On the other side of fear mindset thumbnail for overcoming fear quotes
By ewell smith January 25, 2026
Fear shows up before every meaningful decision. These overcoming fear quotes plus real-world insight and data help you move forward when it matters most.
Black and white portrait of Chris Widener with the words Believe Again.
By ewell smith January 17, 2026
Why belief is the foundation of leadership, mentorship, and personal growth, featuring insights and stories from Chris Widener.