Delon Hurt is a standout athlete and UCLA graduate, renowned for his exceptional dedication to both academics and athletics. Born and raised in Ontario, California, in a devout Christian household, Delon’s upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to community service. Excelling in football and track & field, he also shone academically, consistently achieving Honor Roll status and graduating with a degree in Sociology in just three years. Beyond his impressive feats on the field and in the classroom, Delon is deeply committed to making a positive impact in his community, particularly in the Anaheim area, where he has devoted countless hours to volunteer work. With aspirations to play professional football while harboring interests in cinema and fashion, Delon embodies the true spirit of a scholar-athlete, demonstrating that with discipline and dedication, one can achieve excellence across multiple domains.
How did you get started in this business?
I started my journey in sports from a very young age, influenced by a strong familial emphasis on discipline and achievement. My professional aspirations to play football and my interest in cinema and fashion naturally evolved from the experiences and values I developed through sports and academics.
How do you make money?
Currently, as a student-athlete, my focus isn’t directly on making money but rather on excelling in sports and academics. My goal is to secure a professional contract in football, which will be my primary source of income. Additionally, I am exploring opportunities in cinema and fashion, which could potentially become revenue streams in the future.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
As I am still in the early stages of my career and my focus has been on building skills and completing my education, profitability in a traditional business sense isn’t something I’ve achieved yet. However, I view my scholarships and the investments in my education and training as profits in terms of value and future potential.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
Yes, there have been times when I doubted my path, especially balancing high-level academics with elite sports. Injuries and setbacks brought doubts, but my faith, family, and commitment to my goals have always helped me persevere.
How did you get your first customer?
In terms of my future in sports marketing or fashion, my “first customer” would likely come from networking within the industry and leveraging my reputation and relationships built through sports.
What is one marketing strategy that works well to generate new business?
For someone in sports and entertainment, personal branding is crucial. Effectively using social media to share my journey, values, and the behind-the-scenes of my training and projects can attract opportunities and partnerships.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
Deciding how to best balance my time between training, studies, and my extracurricular interests in cinema and fashion has been tough. Prioritizing what to focus on each day requires constant evaluation and sometimes making hard choices that favor long-term benefits over short-term gratifications.
What do you think makes you successful?
I believe my success comes from a strong work ethic instilled by my family, my faith that guides me, and my disciplined approach to both sports and personal development. Success for me is about continuous improvement and the impact I can make on and off the field.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
While still early in my professional journey, my most satisfying moments come from the recognition of my efforts in both athletics and academics, such as receiving scholarships and awards. These affirm that my hard work is paying off and that I’m on the right path.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future involves playing professional football and potentially creating a brand that aligns with my passions for fashion and film. I aim to blend my interests to build a multifaceted career that extends beyond sports.
What business books have inspired you?
“Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck has been influential for me. It underscores the importance of having a growth mindset, which is essential in both sports and business.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to trust the process, worry less about the outcomes, and focus more on hard work and personal growth. Challenges and setbacks are part of the journey and are often prerequisites for success.
Are you willing to be a mentor?
Absolutely, I am passionate about mentoring young athletes and students. Sharing the lessons I’ve learned and helping others navigate their paths would be a way to give back, using my experiences to positively influence their lives.