Imagine a rural community where young athletes have limited access to modern training facilities, forcing them to travel hours for quality coaching or settle for subpar resources. This is the reality for many in northeastern Colorado—but that’s about to change. The School of Reps, a forward-thinking sports and athletic company, has joined the Rural Jump-Start Program, announcing plans to build an indoor athletic training facility in Sterling, Colorado. This isn’t just another gym—it’s a game-changer for the region, promising to create jobs, diversify the local economy, and provide youth athletes with cutting-edge tools to reach their full potential. But here’s where it gets exciting: this facility will bring resources typically found only in major cities to a rural area, leveling the playing field for athletes in Logan, Phillips, Sedgwick, and Washington counties, as well as the Nebraska Panhandle.
Governor Jared Polis highlighted the significance of this development, stating, ‘Rural Jump-Start is supporting new businesses across Colorado, and I’m thrilled to welcome The School of Reps to Sterling. This investment strengthens the local economy and empowers young athletes and families in northeastern Colorado.’ The facility will offer a range of services, including AI-enhanced skill development, batting cage rentals, team practice spaces, strength and conditioning programs, camps, and community-based classes. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about sports—it’s about building better students of the game and life, fostering a sense of community, and providing a safe, fun space for families to grow together.
Co-Founder Ryan Lock shared a personal insight that sparked the idea: ‘Helping coach my kids’ teams opened my eyes to the need for a place where kids can play, train, get good feedback, feel supported, and have fun. That’s exactly what The School of Reps is all about.’ Fellow Co-Founder Anna McClary echoed this sentiment, adding, ‘Our area’s athletes have incredible potential, and they deserve these tools close to home. This is why our three families came together to create this space.’ Their vision is bold, but it raises a thought-provoking question: Can a single facility truly transform a community’s athletic and economic landscape?
The Rural Jump-Start Program, designed to spur economic development in distressed rural counties, is backing this initiative with $15,000 in grant funding and state personal income tax exemptions for eligible employees. But here’s the controversial part: while the program aims to create good-paying jobs and diversify local economies, some might argue that rural areas need more than just financial incentives to thrive. Is this enough to ensure long-term success, or does the community need additional support to maximize this opportunity? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Trae Miller, Executive Director of the Logan County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC), emphasized the facility’s impact: ‘Youth sports are a cornerstone of rural communities, and The School of Reps will bring valuable resources typically only available in larger metro areas.’ Meanwhile, Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), praised the project as a vital tool for strengthening communities across the state.
When it opens, The School of Reps will feature a school-themed environment equipped with advanced tools like virtual reality hitting and live analytics for hitters and pitchers. But here’s the real kicker: it will serve athletes from their first swing through their college years, while also supporting adults and families looking for a fun, growth-focused space. This facility aims to fill a major gap in northeastern Colorado, providing a community hub that’s both safe and inspiring.
Supported by the Rural Jump-Start Grant, The School of Reps will create local jobs, expand athlete development opportunities, and bring modern training resources to rural athletes who previously had limited access. Its mission is rooted in long-term growth, community impact, and the belief that every athlete deserves the chance to succeed. But we have to ask: Will this facility be enough to keep talented athletes from leaving rural areas for better opportunities? Let us know what you think.
For more information about the Rural Jump-Start Program, contact Quina Weber-Shirk at quina.webershirk@state.co.us. And if you’re curious about how OEDIT is working to empower all Coloradans to thrive, visit their website at https://oedit.colorado.gov/. This initiative isn’t just about sports—it’s about building a brighter future for rural Colorado, one athlete, one family, and one community at a time. What do you think? Is this the kind of investment rural areas need, or is there more to be done? Share your thoughts below!
