Local entrepreneurs Megan and Adam Sikora are bringing a new concept in childcare to West Town Mall this fall.
Athleticademy will offer by-the-hour childcare in a professionally operated 5,300 square foot space near Belk Men. The center will include classrooms, multi-sport court, parent lounge and sporting goods shop. Pricing options also include after-school care and full-day care to coincide with the schedule of Knox County Schools.
Megan Sikora, co-founder, will serve as the center’s general manager and will develop curriculum, oversee scheduling and develop relationships with the surrounding retail location. Previously, she was a contracts administrator at Leidos. She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and has worked in many industries including service in the U. S. Air Force as an unmanned aerial vehicle crew meteorologist. She has a background in soccer and has raised three young girls as budding athletes.
Adam Sikora, co-founder, will serve as the CEO and part-time coach. Previously, he worked as a data analyst and environmental scientist at Tetra Tech. He just finished a professional MBA program at the University of Tennessee and has an extensive work history in multiple industries including the U. S. Air Force. He also taught mathematics in Bristol, Tenn., and has multi-sport experience as a player and coach including work with the Boys and Girls Club.
Ron Blackburn will work as a part-time marketing consultant during the start-up phase with the option of coming on full-time as the company grows toward a franchise model.
Hours are tentative, but projected to be noon to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 1-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Learn more here.