The nationally franchised company is the newest participant in the Greater Downtown Dayton Partnership’s Activated Spaces pop-up shop project, which provides entrepreneurs and business owners a chance to sign a shorter lease at below-market rates.
Soccer Shots is opening new administrative offices as well as an indoor soccer area where it will host programming.
“We are teaching kids the basics of what they need to learn about soccer, but we are also focused on character development,” said Brandon Artis, owner and director of Soccer Shots Miami Valley.
Soccer Shots should be open for First Friday this week and for the Downtown Dayton Partnership’s housing tour from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday.
“We are thrilled to add Soccer Shots to the diverse group of small businesses that have opened downtown through the Activated Spaces program,” said Melanie Wagner, leader of the pop-up project, now in its 10th phase.
Soccer Shots provides intramural programming for children ages 2 to 8.
The programs introduce children to soccer but also feature curriculum developed by educational experts focused on concepts such as respect and teamwork, Artis said.
The company tends to directly serve preschools and daycare and child care centers by running weekly programs on site, he said.
Artis said he attended Chaminade Julienne High School, which is currently constructing a multi-million dollar athletic stadium.
Artis said the school donated some turf, which will fill about 1,000 square feet of the store and be used for soccer exercises, games and skill training.
“We want kids to have fun and understand the importance of being active,” he said. “And character development is a big part of our program.”
Artis said his company formerly operated out of his basement.
American Pi previously occupied the space in St. Clair, but it has moved all operations to 38 W. Franklin St. in Centerville and is now called Pi Style. The establishment is a boutique.
Other businesses located in the St. Clair Lofts complex include Twist Cupcakery, Baker Salvage Co. and Salon J Ladner & Spa.
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