Soda Inc. marketing and sales intern, Tayla Graham, recently caught up with Chiefs player, Ryan Coxon about his business, Coxy’s Lawns. Tayla learned how Soda had impacted his future business plans.
Ryan had always wanted to be self-employed, and with an ever-changing rugby schedule he needed to create more flexibility. "I found myself being called in and out of super rugby teams as injury replacement so I couldn’t hold down or be reliable in a regular 9-5pm job. So, I decided I would try find a way to make an income on the side of rugby and started mowing lawns," he said.
Coxy’s Lawns was born. His love of the outdoors makes client bookings something Ryan looks forward to, and he prides himself on producing quality service and results every time. "Being a business owner means having a lot on your plate at once, add this into a busy Chiefs rugby schedule and you’re looking at way more than a three-course meal." Ryan began juggling his Chiefs commitments with his business by starting off small and dedicating his days off rugby to Coxy’s Lawns. He then slowly built his team as the business grew.
Ryan was initially attracted to Soda after tapping into a business 101 workshop Soda held for the Chiefs rugby team throughout lockdown. Since coming into contact with Soda, Ryan explained he had been provided with an abundance of information and guidance from the Soda team which helped him develop and progress his business forward.
"I have received so much information and guidance since meeting with the team at Soda. I didn’t know what to expect when I met them over a zoom call in lockdown. I just try to take in all their wisdom and knowledge they have around the business sector and try to use and apply what I can to my own business. I have received guidance and advice that has helped me move my business forward," he said.
He now has a few staff members who supports him during the busy periods – but is looking to expand his team.
If you want the opportunity to work alongside Ryan and be a part of an up and coming business, contact Ryan through his Facebook.