Bertrand Berry is turning his athletic talents and passion on the football field into a long-term career off the field — and Gateway Bank is proud to play a small part in helping bring his dream to life.
Bertrand played in the NFL for 13 years. After spending time with the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, he played with the Arizona Cardinals for six years before retiring in 2010. Since then, Bertrand has stayed involved with football to share his love for the game and help others improve their skills. While traveling the country with Under Armor to assist with training camps, he discovered a passion for coaching youth. That’s when the idea for Train’s Station was born.
Bertrand had a vision: start a football training facility in Phoenix that could help young athletes move up the ranks, as well as professional players up their game even more. To achieve this vision, he needed help starting the business.
That’s when he turned to Gateway Bank for a small business loan. Bertrand had a personal relationship with Business Development Officer Shellie Berry and President James Christensen, so working with Gateway was a natural fit.
“It’s definitely a little scary when you take out a loan,” Bertrand describes. “I appreciate that James saw the potential for my business and my passion for it, and that Gateway gave me the opportunity.”
James and the Gateway team guided Bertrand through the process and recently helped him close on his loan. Now, the facility is open and welcoming kids from across the Valley.
“Gateway does so much to help people realize their dreams. I can’t say enough good about their team,” he says. “I’m excited to get going, and I couldn’t have done it without Gateway.”
For more information on Train’s Station and to watch Bertrand’s progress, follow along on Twitter at twitter.com/TrainsStation1.