TEMPLE, TX — Sports World has been open since 1974 and has seen a lot of changes, but nothing quite like 2020.
The business was forced to shut their doors for five weeks due to the pandemic. Even after reopening, with sports not happening, there was no business. Sports World owner Bryce Alsup knew they had to do something in order for the business to stay afloat.
“Our sales reps brought it to our attention, and we were like, "Well, we will try it," because we needed to try something, and as soon as those first 200 took off. We knew this was a can't-miss thing,” he said.
As masks became a requirement for individuals across the state, the need sparked an idea.
Sports World quickly changed their entire business model in a matter of weeks to focus on selling masks with logos of Bell County sports teams.
“Up until Memorial Day actually, we stayed curbside only just selling masks. After we sold those first 200, the next morning I probably ordered another thousand of the different schools. It takes about two weeks to get them in, but as soon as I got in those, they sold in a matter of a week," said Alsup.
Temple, Belton, Holland, Lake Belton, and Little River Academy are just some of the schools represented. Sports World has all your favorite Bell County teams and has sold close to 10,000 masks.
While business is still not where it needs to be, it's enough to get by.
“It’s keeping us here, it's keeping up open. It’s not taking over what we’ve lost, but it's helping tremendously make up for what we have lost,” said Alsup.
Due to high demand, stock is limited and the masks are going quick. If you do want a mask while you cheer on your favorite team, you may want to get the masks several days before your game on Friday night.
