OUR Team
The spark of an idea
In 2002, Rick Hart, Jump Start Sports Founder & CEO, a successful advertising executive, sought to combine his professional skills with his passion for kids and sports. Seizing this opportunity, Rick developed a series of camps and programs designed to be both fun and enriching for children. This small beginning laid the foundation for something much bigger—a vision that would touch the lives of children in many communities.
building the foundation
With the clear goal of providing diverse and inclusive programs, Jump Start Sports quickly resonated with local communities and their families. The early success of these programs fueled further expansion and soon, Jump Start was operating across Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and North Carolina. The focus was always on making sports fun, accessible and rewarding for every child, regardless of their skill level.
a bold step forward
In 2023, Rick Hart took a bold and ambitious step by franchising Jump Start Sports. The goal was to extend its positive impact nationwide, delivering quality and consistent youth sports programs to millions of children. This move marked a significant milestone, transforming a regional initiative into a national movement. The franchise model flourished, bringing the Jump Start experience to communities far and wide. Jump Start isn't just about playing games; it's about fostering physical, psychological, emotional, and social development. The emphasis on world-class coaches, rather than just world-class athletes, ensures a supportive and enriching environment for all participants. This approach guarantees that every child, regardless of their athletic ability, can experience the joy and benefits of sports
The heart of our mission
At the core of Jump Start Sports is a commitment to enriching children's lives through sports. Whether it's through developmental youth camps, diverse programs, or the latest in sports education, Jump Start sets the standard for excellence in youth sports. From the local fields of Jump Start's home, Hudson, Ohio, to communities across the nation, we invite you to join us in this journey. Together, we can champion the growth and development of every child through the joy of sports.
our vision and principles
At Jump Start Sports, our vision is to deliver our best-in-class youth sports programs to millions of children and communities across the nation. We partner with those who share our passion for quality and integrity, aspiring to set the standard for excellence in coaching, life skill development, and character education.
Our core philosophy is simple: provide inclusive, safe, and well-organized sports experiences. We encourage children to explore a wide variety of sports, find their passion, and develop a love for sports from an early age. We focus on positivity and FUNdamentals, with an emphasis on positive reinforcement, fostering learning, development, and relationships.
JOIN the movement
Jump Start Sports continues to expand its reach, driven by a mission to enrich children's lives through sports. We invite you to be part of a legacy that champions the growth and development of every child through the joy of sports.
Aron OLAFFOSTER
Aron Olaffoster has been involved in sports his entire life, both as a player and a coach. With coaching experience in high school golf and bowling, as well as middle school lacrosse, Aron brings a well-rounded background and a passion for developing athletes of all ages.
A proud graduate of Kent State University, Aron earned his bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and currently teaches 5th grade in Akron. His love for education and sports naturally led him to invest in Jump Start Sports Heart of Ohio, where he can combine both passions.
For Aron, this franchise is about more than just sports—it’s about helping young athletes grow socially, emotionally, and personally, both on and off the field. His mission is to create opportunities where kids can learn, compete, and thrive in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Allyson vargo
Allyson works as an Accounting Specialist for Kent State, where she applies her keen attention to detail and financial skillfulness to support the university’s operations. In addition, she is pursuing a degree in General Business.
Having played sports for most of her life, Allyson understands firsthand the valuable life lessons that youth sports provide. Her passion for sports and business led her to co-own Jump Start Sports Heart of Ohio, where she combines her love for athletics with her entrepreneurial spirit to offer top-quality sports programs for young athletes.
Through her work, Allyson strives to create opportunities for youth to develop both their athletic skills and character, providing a positive, supportive environment where every child can thrive.
